Declining since 1989, #8,910 for boys today.
Popularity of Regis since 1897
Babies named Regis per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 0 | 5 |
| 1900s | 0 | 48 |
| 1910s | 49 | 484 |
| 1920s | 65 | 679 |
| 1930s | 53 | 734 |
| 1940s | 48 | 838 |
| 1950s | 51 | 667 |
| 1960s | 6 | 441 |
| 1970s | 5 | 257 |
| 1980s | 48 | 401 |
| 1990s | 18 | 331 |
| 2000s | 0 | 136 |
| 2010s | 0 | 112 |
| 2020s | 0 | 60 |
Meaning & origin
Regis is a historically masculine given name of French origin, derived from the Latin word for 'king'. It has never been a common name in the United States; in 2025 it ranked 8910th, meaning roughly 1 in 213,510 newborns receives the name. Its usage peaked in 1917, and it has been steadily falling in popularity since 1989. The name is most often associated with the Catholic saint John Francis Regis, giving it a subtle religious resonance. Though it has not seen a revival in recent decades, its rarity and dignified sound appeal to parents seeking an uncommon name with European roots. As of 2025, it is not concentrated in any particular U.S. states, remaining a scattered choice nationwide.
Regis is primarily a French given name derived from the surname Régis, itself from Latin rex (genitive regis) meaning 'king'. The name was historically borne by Saint John Francis Regis, a 17th-century French Jesuit missionary. Its use as a first name gained modest popularity in English-speaking countries during the early 20th century, often as a nod to Catholic heritage.
Where Regis is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Reg
Variants: Régis
Sibling names for Regis
Names that share Regis's style, for a brother or sister.
