Aleixo – Name Meaning
The name Aleixo is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the Latin name Alexius. It is a masculine given name that means “defender” or “protector”. The name has been popular in Portugal since the Middle Ages, and it is still used today.
History and Origin
The name Aleixo has its roots in the Latin language, where it was originally spelled Alexius. It was first used as a given name in Portugal during the Middle Ages, when it was adopted by royalty and nobility. The name was also popular among the clergy, as it was associated with Saint Alexius of Rome, who was known for his piety and charity.
The popularity of the name Aleixo continued to grow throughout the centuries, and it remains a popular choice for parents today. In addition to being used as a given name, it is also sometimes used as a surname.
Popularity
Aleixo is not a particularly common name in the United States, but it does have some presence. According to Social Security Administration data, there were only about 100 babies born with this name in 2018. However, it is much more popular in Portugal, where it ranks among the top 100 most popular names.
Famous People Named Aleixo
There are several famous people who bear the name Aleixo. One of them is Aleixo de Menezes, who served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 1834 to 1835. Another notable bearer of this name is Aleixo de Almeida, a Portuguese poet and playwright who wrote several plays during the 19th century.
In addition to these historical figures, there are also several contemporary celebrities who share this name. These include Brazilian actor Aleixo Vieira and Portuguese footballer Aleix García Serrano.