Régis: a male name of Latin origin meaning "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent".It derives from the Latin word "*H3RḖǴS > rēx > rēgis".
The name Régis carries a rich history rooted in Latin culture. Derived from "*H3RḖǴS > rēx > rēgis", this masculine name embodies the essence of It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Latin-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Régis
Quick facts about Régis
Origin
Latin
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*H3RḖǴS > rēx > rēgis
How to Pronounce Régis
Régis is pronounced /ˈreʒ.ɪs/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Rég-is
Say it like: "RÉG-IS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Régis is predominantly used in french speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
french
Frequently Asked Questions About Régis
What does the name Régis mean?
Régis means "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.". The name comes from *H3RḖǴS > rēx > rēgis. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Régis for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Régis's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Régis?
Régis is a latin name. The name traces back to *H3RḖǴS > rēx > rēgis. The name remains closely tied to french naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Régis a boy or girl name?
Régis is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In latin tradition, Régis has historically been given to boys. The meaning "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Régis?
Régis is pronounced "/ˈreʒ.ɪs/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Régis is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Régis can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Régis?
Régis is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Régis offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Régis's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Régis holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Régis commonly used?
Régis is used primarily in french naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Régis found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Régis into their naming traditions. A child named Régis will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Régis is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.