Rex
Rex first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1951, when 1,503 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 281.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Rex popular?
Steady Rex has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1951.
| 2020s | 2,106 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 3,945 | |
| 2000s | 2,048 | |
| 1990s | 1,740 | |
| 1980s | 2,532 | |
| 1970s | 3,359 | |
| 1960s | 8,735 | |
| 1950s | 13,499 | |
| 1940s | 6,671 | |
| 1930s | 5,949 | |
| 1920s | 5,627 | |
| 1910s | 3,253 | |
| 1900s | 497 | |
| 1890s | 305 | |
| 1880s | 183 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Rex mean?
Directly from the Latin noun 'rex', meaning 'king' — the same root behind 'regal' and 'royal'. One of the few names that literally means 'king' with no ambiguity.
Names like Rex
latin names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Rex
Popular latin names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Rex
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Rex mean?
Rex means king. Directly from the Latin noun 'rex', meaning 'king' — the same root behind 'regal' and 'royal'. One of the few names that literally means 'king' with no ambiguity.
What is the origin of the name Rex?
Rex is of latin origin.
How do you pronounce Rex?
Rex is pronounced “reks.”
Is Rex a boy or a girl name?
Rex is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Rex a popular name right now?
Rex has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1951.
How popular is the name Rex?
In 2025, Rex ranked #859 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Rex most popular?
Rex was most popular in 1951, when about 1,503 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Rex?
Names similar to Rex include Maurice, Felix, Maximilian, Aurelio, Aurelius.
What names go well with Rex?
latin names that pair well with Rex include Mark, Amanda, Emily, Olivia, Ava.