Alex vs Gavin

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alex

Boy #205 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"defender of men"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

English Greek Spanish Russian French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#205
Total SSA Count
1,722
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Al, Lex

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Alex →

Gavin

Boy #254 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"white hawk of battle"

Origin: Welsh

Cultural Roots

Welsh Scottish English American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#254
Total SSA Count
1,380
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Gav

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Gavin →

Popularity Comparison

Alex Rank #205
Gavin Rank #254

Alex is more popular, ranked #205 vs #254 for Gavin.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Alex ___

  • Alex James
  • Alex Michael
  • Alex Thomas
  • Alex Ryan
  • Alex John
  • Alex William

Gavin ___

  • Gavin James
  • Gavin Michael
  • Gavin Thomas
  • Gavin Lee
  • Gavin Scott
  • Gavin Alexander

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Alex

Ryan Emma Sophie Natalie Jack

If you choose Gavin

Liam Owen Nora Brynn Connor

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 Alex or Gavin more popular?

Alex is more popular, ranked #205 compared to Gavin at #254 in the United States.

What do Alex and Gavin mean?

Alex means "defender of men" (Greek origin). Gavin means "white hawk of battle" (Welsh origin).

Are Alex and Gavin boy or girl names?

Alex is primarily a boy name. Gavin is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Alex ← Full profile: Gavin Browse all baby names