A 1940s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Tex since 1890
Babies named Tex per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 7 |
| 1910s | 85 |
| 1920s | 222 |
| 1930s | 307 |
| 1940s | 519 |
| 1950s | 296 |
| 1960s | 141 |
| 1970s | 90 |
| 1980s | 72 |
| 1990s | 36 |
| 2000s | 68 |
| 2010s | 110 |
| 2020s | 156 |
Meaning & origin
Tex is a short, crisp name with a distinctly American flavor, originating as a nickname for someone from Texas. While it first appeared in U.S. records in 1890, it achieved its greatest popularity during the 1940s, when it ranked highest. After a long decline, the name has been on an upward trajectory since 1999, and in 2025 it stood at rank 3450, with about 1 in 51,760 baby boys receiving the name. Its strongest association remains with the state of Texas, which has been the top state for the name historically. Tex fits into a category of place-derived nicknames like Dixie or Buck, and its revival in recent years suggests a renewed appreciation for simple, rugged names.
Tex originated as a nickname for someone from Texas, a state whose name derives from the Caddo word 'táysha' meaning 'friend' or 'ally.' It has been used as a given name since the late 19th century, particularly in the American South and West, and saw peak popularity in the 1940s.
Where Tex is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Tex
Names that share Tex's style, for a brother or sister.
