Declining since 1992, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Chavez since 1953
Babies named Chavez per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 6 |
| 1960s | 6 |
| 1970s | 72 |
| 1980s | 123 |
| 1990s | 352 |
| 2000s | 171 |
| 2010s | 102 |
| 2020s | 41 |
Meaning & origin
Chavez entered the U.S. naming data in 1953, a relatively late start for a given name, and reached its highest usage in 1992. Since then its frequency has steadily fallen, reflecting broader shifts in naming trends. As of 2025 it is quite rare, given to about 1 in 341,615 newborns. The name is almost exclusively used for boys and carries strong ties to Hispanic heritage through its surname origin. While not among the top baby names in any state, its cultural resonance is amplified by historical figures, though the name itself remains uncommon as a first choice.
Chavez is a given name derived from the Spanish surname Chávez, itself of debated origin. It may come from the Portuguese chaves or Spanish llaves, meaning 'keys,' or from a place name. The surname rose to prominence in the United States via notable figures, and its use as a first name began in the mid-20th century, particularly among Hispanic families.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Chav, Chavo
Variants: Chávez
Sibling names for Chavez
Names that share Chavez's style, for a brother or sister.
