Alec vs Billy

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alec

Boy #880 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"defender of men"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

English Scottish American European

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#880
Total SSA Count
273
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Al

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Billy

Boy #1,051 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"resolute protector"

Origin: Old German via Norman French

Cultural Roots

English American Australian Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,051
Total SSA Count
210
Syllables
2
Formality
Casual
Nicknames
Bill, Bills

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Alec Rank #880
Billy Rank #1,051

Alec is more popular, ranked #880 vs #1051 for Billy.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Alec ___

  • Alec James
  • Alec Thomas
  • Alec William
  • Alec Henry
  • Alec John
  • Alec Joseph

Billy ___

  • Billy Ray
  • Billy Joe
  • Billy Dean
  • Billy James
  • Billy Lee
  • Billy Gene

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Alec

Claire Sophie Max Oliver Nora

If you choose Billy

Bobby Tommy Jimmy Johnny Betty

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alec or Billy more popular?

Alec is more popular, ranked #880 compared to Billy at #1051 in the United States.

What do Alec and Billy mean?

Alec means "defender of men" (Greek origin). Billy means "resolute protector" (Old German via Norman French origin).

Are Alec and Billy boy or girl names?

Alec is primarily a boy name. Billy is primarily a boy name.

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