What does Xavier mean and where does it come from?
Originally a male name, Xavier is derived from the Basque place name Etxaberri, meaning 'the new house.' The name has become increasingly popular as a female name, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name is notably associated with Saint Francis Xavier, a co-founder of the Jesuit order.
Cultural significance
Xavier has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of new house.
Peak popularity
Reached #3105 in 1988 — currently #105 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Xavier?
Xavier works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Xavier Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Xavier Rose
Floral · soft ending
Xavier Mae
Sweet · timeless
Xavier Claire
French influence · crisp
Xavier Jane
Literary · strong
Xavier Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Xavier right now?
Holding steady — currently #105 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #105 | 3,432 | ▼ down 5 · -5% births |
| 2022 | #100 | 3,617 | stable · -3% births |
| 2021 | #100 | 3,741 | ▲ up 11983 · +53343% births |
| 2020 | #12083 | 7 | ▲ up 4375 · +40% births |
| 2015 | #16458 | 5 | ▼ down 2983 · -29% births |
| 2010 | #13475 | 7 | ▼ down 5563 · -50% births |
| 2005 | #7912 | 14 | ▲ up 138 · +17% births |
| 2000 | #8050 | 12 | ▼ down 3522 · -45% births |
| 1995 | #4528 | 22 | ▼ down 898 · -24% births |
| 1990 | #3630 | 29 | ▲ up 1477 · +107% births |
| 1985 | #5107 | 14 | ▲ up 1723 · +56% births |
| 1980 | #6830 | 9 | ▼ down 2435 · -36% births |
| 1975 | #4395 | 14 | ▲ up 2073 · +180% births |
| 1960 | #6468 | 5 | — |
The story of Xavier
Xavier entered American naming records in 1960 and has been in use for over 64 years. More than 143,462 babies have been named Xavier since 1960. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6468 in 1960 to #105 in 2023. Xavier is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Xavier in 1988:
Xavier by decade
Xavier peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 23 | |
| 1900s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 111 | |
| 1920s | 154 | |
| 1930s | 172 | |
| 1940s | 395 | |
| 1950s | 956 | |
| 1960s | 1,831 | |
| 1970s | 2,993 | |
| 1980s | 7,237 | |
| 1990s | 24,543 | |
| 2000s ★ | 52,612 | |
| 2010s | 48,570 | |
| 2020s | 3,854 | |
What are good nicknames for Xavier?
What names sound and feel like Xavier?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Xavier also consider these
How is Xavier written in other languages?
Gender variants of Xavier
Common questions about the name Xavier
What does the name Xavier mean?
Xavier means "new house" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Xavier?
Xavier is currently ranked #105 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Xavier?
Xavier originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Xavier?
Xavier is a two-syllable name pronounced Z EY1 V Y ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Xavier more of a girl or boy name?
Xavier is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.