Regis Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationREH-jis / /ˈrɛdʒɪs/Latin; French
Meaning
Latin: 'kingly'; French: 'of the king'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Regis has its roots in the Latin word "rex," meaning "king." This etymological origin reflects a lineage that traces back to the Roman Empire, where the term was used to denote rulers and sovereigns. The transition into the name Regis occurred through the adaptation of Latin into various Romance languages, where it evolved into forms such as "Regis" in Old French and later entered the English lexicon. The name is often associated with nobility and authority, encapsulating the essence of kingship in its very structure.
Historically, the name Regis has been borne by various notable figures, particularly in the context of Christian saints. One of the most significant is Saint Regis, a 17th-century Jesuit priest known for his missionary work in France and his dedication to education and the poor. His canonization in the 19th century further solidified the name's association with virtuous leadership and moral integrity. Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and documents, reflecting its enduring presence in European culture.
Culturally, Regis has been embraced in various traditions, often symbolizing strength, leadership, and dignity. The name's royal connotations have made it a favored choice among those wishing to evoke a sense of nobility. In some contexts, diminutive forms such as Reggie have emerged, though these are more contemporary adaptations. Overall, the name Regis carries a weight of historical significance, embodying the qualities of leadership and reverence that have persisted through centuries.
Trend Summary
The name Regis has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with periods of increased usage particularly in the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Regis
- Reggie
International Variants
- Regis (French)
- Regis (Latin)
Famous people named Regis
Regis Philbin was a television personality best known for Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and America's Got Talent.
Regis Toomey was an actor best known for The Maltese Falcon, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, and The Big Sleep.
Fictional characters named Regis
Regis is a fictional character from the book series The Witcher by Andrzej Sapkowski. He is a powerful vampire and a key ally to the protagonist, Geralt of Rivia.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Regis was first seen in the United States in 1897. Regis has ranked as high as #754 nationally, which occurred in 1917, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, California, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Regis has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Regis (2005)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1897 | 5 |
1900 | 5 |
1901 | 7 |
1904 | 5 |
1905 | 5 |
1906 | 6 |
1907 | 5 |
1908 | 9 |
1909 | 6 |
1910 | 14 |
1911 | 22 |
1912 | 26 |
1913 | 33 |
1914 | 51 |
1915 | 60 |
1916 | 64 |
1917 | 98 |
1918 | 62 |
1919 | 54 |
1920 | 72 |
1921 | 70 |
1922 | 87 |
1923 | 72 |
1924 | 57 |
1925 | 59 |
1926 | 67 |
1927 | 58 |
1928 | 69 |
1929 | 68 |
1930 | 72 |
1931 | 80 |
1932 | 71 |
1933 | 65 |
1934 | 80 |
1935 | 66 |
1936 | 79 |
1937 | 80 |
1938 | 73 |
1939 | 68 |
1940 | 73 |
1941 | 87 |
1942 | 93 |
1943 | 84 |
1944 | 79 |
1945 | 75 |
1946 | 91 |
1947 | 86 |
1948 | 82 |
1949 | 88 |
1950 | 72 |
1951 | 82 |
1952 | 66 |
1953 | 85 |
1954 | 67 |
1955 | 72 |
1956 | 52 |
1957 | 68 |
1958 | 55 |
1959 | 48 |
1960 | 46 |
1961 | 46 |
1962 | 49 |
1963 | 48 |
1964 | 58 |
1965 | 44 |
1966 | 27 |
1967 | 44 |
1968 | 44 |
1969 | 35 |
1970 | 34 |
1971 | 37 |
1972 | 19 |
1973 | 20 |
1974 | 31 |
1975 | 17 |
1976 | 30 |
1977 | 24 |
1978 | 26 |
1979 | 19 |
1980 | 21 |
1981 | 31 |
1982 | 35 |
1983 | 35 |
1984 | 26 |
1985 | 47 |
1986 | 45 |
1987 | 50 |
1988 | 45 |
1989 | 66 |
1990 | 67 |
1991 | 47 |
1992 | 52 |
1993 | 34 |
1994 | 23 |
1995 | 31 |
1996 | 26 |
1997 | 19 |
1998 | 16 |
1999 | 16 |
2000 | 11 |
2001 | 19 |
2002 | 14 |
2003 | 13 |
2004 | 15 |
2005 | 15 |
2006 | 14 |
2007 | 9 |
2008 | 16 |
2009 | 10 |
2010 | 15 |
2011 | 10 |
2012 | 12 |
2013 | 10 |
2014 | 9 |
2015 | 10 |
2016 | 13 |
2017 | 9 |
2018 | 13 |
2019 | 11 |
2020 | 14 |
2021 | 9 |
2022 | 7 |
2023 | 11 |
2024 | 11 |