Alexis

Alexis is a given name and, less commonly, a surname. It derives from the Greek name Alexios, from the verb alexein meaning “to defend” or “to help,” with the sense of “defender” or “protector.” The name has been adopted across many languages and cultures.

Usage and gender: In English-speaking countries, Alexis is widely treated as a unisex given name, though it has become especially popular for girls in recent decades. In Greece, the original form Alexios is masculine and remains common for boys.

Notable people: The name is held by figures such as Alexis de Tocqueville, the 19th‑century French political thinker; Alexis Tsipras, the Greek politician who served as prime minister in 2015; Alexis Sánchez, a Chilean footballer; Alexis Bledel, an American actress; Alexis Ohanian, an American internet entrepreneur; Alexis Ren, an American model and influencer; and Alexis Jordan, an American singer.

Other uses: Alexis is also used as a surname in various cultures and appears in literature and media as well. Related given-name variants include Alex, Alexa, Alix, and Alexei, while the feminine form Alexa is common in modern English usage.