Alex
Meaning: Defender of the people
Origin: Greek
Gender: Unisex
Rank in Ireland: #49
Total births: 9,754
History: Alex has risen steadily in Ireland since the 2000s, popular in both Dublin suburbs and rural parishes. The name has become a modern classic, heard on sidelines from Croke Park to local GAA pitches across the provinces, embraced by Irish families for its friendly energy.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #37 |
| Babies named Alex in 2025 | 128 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 9,754 |
| Peak year | 2010 (551 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #8 |
| Years in records | 1972–2025 (53 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↑ 257 spots |
Frequently asked about Alex
What does the name Alex mean?
Alex means “Defender of the people” from Greek roots.
What is the origin of the name Alex?
Alex has Greek origin. The traditional meaning is “Defender of the people”.
How popular is Alex in Ireland?
Alex ranked #37 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 128 babies that year.
When was Alex most popular?
Alex peaked in 2010 with 551 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Alex a boy or girl name?
Alex is predominantly a boys' name in Ireland — over 90% of Alexs in registered births are male.
Is the name Alex rising or falling in popularity?
Alex has risen 257 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #294 in 2020 to #37 in 2025.
How long has Alex been recorded in Ireland?
Alex appears in birth records in Ireland across 53 years — from 1972 through 2025.