Rex

“King” — Symbolizes leadership and authority

Latin origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#723US 2023

367Births / yr

↓Falling

58.8kAll-time births

📅 Since 192100

How to pronounce Rex

REKS

/ˈrɛks/ · stress on REKS · 1 syllable

“King”

Symbolizes leadership and authority · Latin origin

What does Rex mean and where does it come from?

Although primarily a male name meaning 'king', Rex is sometimes used for females, particularly in the contemporary context or as a unique choice. The name symbolizes leadership and authority. It has Latin roots and has been a popular name since ancient Rome, often used in literature and media. The n

Cultural significance

Rex has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of king.

Peak popularity

Reached #3381 in 1925 — currently #723 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Rex?

Rex works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Rex Grace

How popular is Rex right now?

Declining — down 26 spots — currently #723 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1925–2023#723 · Top 0.53%

1925

1935

1940

1960

1980

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#723	367	▼ down 26 · -3% births
2022	#697	380	▲ up 2
2021	#699	379	▲ up 9740 · +7480% births
1980	#10439	5	▼ down 4721 · -17% births
1960	#5718	6	▼ down 1331 · +20% births
1940	#4387	5	▼ down 618 · -17% births
1935	#3769	6	▼ down 388 · -33% births
1925	#3381	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Rex

Best Year2022Rank #697

Peak Count380

Average Rank#3727

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1925 - 20238 years

The story of Rex

Rex entered American naming records in 1921 and has been in use for over 103 years. A total of 58,818 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3381 in 1925 to #723 in 2023. Rex is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Rex in 1925:

Mary Dorothy Betty Helen Margaret

Rex by decade

Rex peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	183
1890s	305
1900s	497
1910s	3,253
1920s	5,660
1930s	5,959
1940s	6,677
1950s ★	13,540
1960s	8,755
1970s	3,367
1980s	2,543
1990s	1,740
2000s	2,047
2010s	3,921
2020s	371

What are good nicknames for Rex?

Common

RexieRexy

Famous people named Rex

Rex (historical Roman figure)

Rex carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.

Rex (Roman senator or statesman)

Rex held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Rex?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Rex also consider these

Trex

English · A meaningful name

Rexx

American · Latin

Brex

American · a derivative of

Drex

American · English

Reg

United Kingdom · Counselor or advisor

Ren

Japan · Japanese

Red

American · red, the color

Rev

American · Reverend, a title

Common questions about the name Rex

What does the name Rex mean?

Rex means "King" — a name rooted in Latin tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Rex?

Rex is currently ranked #723 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Rex?

Rex originates from Latin tradition. Latin names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Rex?

Rex is a one-syllable name pronounced R EH1 K S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

How does Rex sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Rex flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Rex ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.