All about the name TEX

Meaning, origin, history.

The name Tex is of English origin and has a straightforward meaning: "from Texcote", which was an ancient village in Yorkshire, England. The name Tex has been used as both a given name and a surname throughout history.

The earliest known usage of the name Tex as a given name dates back to the 16th century in England. However, it was not particularly common during this time period. It was more frequently used as a nickname or short form for individuals named Thomas.

Over the centuries, the name Tex has gained popularity due in part to its association with Texas, the second-largest state in the United States. The state's name is derived from the Hasinai Indian word "táysha'", which means "friend" or "ally". This connection has likely contributed to the perception of Tex as a rugged, Western-sounding name.

Today, Tex is still not one of the most popular names in English-speaking countries. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, only eight boys were named Tex in 2019, placing it well outside the top 1000 names for that year.

Despite its relative rarity as a given name, Tex has been used by some notable individuals throughout history. For instance, Tex Avery was an American animator and cartoonist who created famous characters such as Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck during the Golden Age of American animation. There is also a town named Texarkana that straddles the border between Texas and Arkansas in the United States.

In literature, "Tex" has been used as a character name in works like Cormac McCarthy's novel "No Country for Old Men". The name's association with Texas and the American West has likely influenced its use in various forms of media to evoke a certain sense of ruggedness or individualism.

In summary, Tex is an English name with roots tracing back centuries. While not extremely popular as a given name, it carries historical significance and associations that have made it a recognizable moniker across generations.