A 1900s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Alejo since 1909
Babies named Alejo per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Alejo's real moment was 1909.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 16 |
| 1920s | 50 |
| 1930s | 43 |
| 1940s | 58 |
| 1950s | 65 |
| 1960s | 66 |
| 1970s | 73 |
| 1980s | 98 |
| 1990s | 110 |
| 2000s | 125 |
| 2010s | 108 |
| 2020s | 87 |
Meaning & origin
Alejo is a Spanish given name with deep roots in Christian tradition, functioning as the Spanish form of the Greek Alexios (meaning defender). While never among the most common names in the U.S., it has a long history of use among Spanish-speaking families. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1909 and reached its peak rank of 4,539 in that same year. After decades of relatively low usage, Alejo has been rising in popularity since 2009, suggesting renewed interest. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 77,640 male births received the name. The name is most frequently found in California, reflecting its Hispanic cultural ties. Alejo offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Alejandro, with a classic feel and straightforward pronunciation.
Alejo is the Spanish form of the Greek name Alexios, derived from alexein 'to defend' or 'to help'. The name was borne by several early saints, including Saint Alexius of Rome, and spread through Christian Europe. In Spanish-speaking countries, Alejo has been used since medieval times, often as a given name rather than a variant of Alejandro.
Where Alejo is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Alejo
Sibling names for Alejo
Names that share Alejo's style, for a brother or sister.
