Declining since 2011, #6,446 for boys today.
Popularity of Tej since 1983
Babies named Tej per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 22 |
| 1990s | 91 |
| 2000s | 229 |
| 2010s | 254 |
| 2020s | 107 |
Meaning & origin
Tej is a short, powerful name of Sanskrit origin meaning 'sharpness' or 'radiance.' It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1983, and its peak year came in 2011, when it reached its highest usage. Since then, the name has been on a downward trend, though it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with spiritual resonance. The name is typically masculine and is used across Indian cultures, especially in Hindu and Sikh communities. Its simplicity and strong meaning make it a crisp alternative to longer Indian names.
Tej comes directly from Sanskrit तेज (teja) meaning 'sharpness, brightness, radiance, splendor.' It is a common given name in India, often associated with the sun or with inner radiance and spiritual brilliance. The name has been used by both Sikh and Hindu families, though it is primarily masculine in usage.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Tej
Names that share Tej's style, for a brother or sister.
