"all wise (from Norse Alviss)"
Elvis
Pronunciation: [ EHLV-ihs ]
The one and only King of Rock and Roll
Meaning & Origin
"uncertain, possibly Norse or Welsh origin"
Things to Know About This Name
- Overwhelmingly associated with Elvis Presley, naming a child Elvis invites constant comparisons and the shadow of an icon
The Story of Elvis
Elvis is of uncertain origin, possibly derived from the Old Norse Alviss meaning all-wise, the name of a dwarf in Norse mythology who debated with Thor in the Eddic poem Alvissmal. It may also be a variant of the Welsh Elfis or an anglicized form of a Scandinavian name. The name was obscure before 1935, when Elvis Aaron Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, and transformed it into a global phenomenon.
Elvis Presley (1935-1977) transformed the name from obscurity into global recognition. He created rock and roll by fusing Black gospel and blues with country music, changing American culture forever. After his 1977 death, the name saw brief surges but remains primarily the domain of devoted fans and Scandinavian parents.
Elvis Presley is arguably the most culturally significant popular musician in American history. Known as The King, he sold over 500 million records worldwide. In Sweden and Norway, Elvis is common enough that it does not carry the same overwhelming celebrity association.
Fun Facts
- Elvis Presley has sold over 500 million records worldwide, more than any solo artist in history
- In Sweden, Elvis is a common enough name that hundreds of Swedes are named Elvis without the celebrity association
- Elvis's middle name was Aaron, and he had a stillborn twin brother named Jesse Garon Presley
Elvis in Other Languages
Famous People Named Elvis
Elvis Andrus
Athlete
1988
Venezuelan MLB shortstop who played for the Texas Rangers and other teams, a Gold Glove winner
Elvis Costello
Musician
1954
British singer-songwriter known for his eclectic style spanning new wave, country, classical, and pop
Elvis Presley
Musician
1935
The King of Rock and Roll, who revolutionized popular music by fusing Black gospel, blues, and country into a new Americ...
The King of Rock and Roll, who revolutionized popular music by fusing Black gospel, blues, and country into a new American sound
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #1,171
- Total SSA Count
- 177
- Cultural Origins
- American Scandinavian
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Casual
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Pairs Well With
Sibling Names
Also a Girl Name
Elvis is also used as a girl name, ranked #38316.
View Elvis as a girl name →Similar Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Elvis
What does the name Elvis mean?
What is the origin of the name Elvis?
Is Elvis a boy or girl name?
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About the Name Elvis
Elvis is a boy name with American and Scandinavian origins . The name means "all wise (from Norse Alviss)" in Old Norse .
Is Elvis a boy or girl name? Elvis is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #1,171 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #38,316. Elvis is more commonly used as a boy name.
Elvis is currently ranked #1,171 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Elvis has 2 syllables and is pronounced EHLV-ihs, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Elvis include El. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Elvis include Elvin . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.