Elek as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Elek

What is the meaning of the name Elek ?

The baby name Elek is a Male name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced /ˈɛlɛk/ (EL-ek).

Elek is Hungarian in Origin.

Elek is the standard Hungarian masculine form related to Latin Alexius and Greek Alexios, from the verb alexein meaning “to defend, to help.” It carries the sense of defender or protector and belongs to the wider Alex/Alek name family, though in Hungarian it is distinct from Sándor (Alexander).

The name entered Hungarian use through Christian and Byzantine–Latin influence and appears in medieval records, later enduring as a traditional given name and, secondarily, a surname. It remains familiar in Hungary, though comparatively rare today. A noted bearer is the folklorist and writer Benedek Elek, whose given name underscores its cultural presence. International and historical variants include Alexios (Greek), Alexius (Latin), Alexis, Alex, Alec, Alek (Slavic), and Olek (Polish diminutive), with related feminine forms Alexa and Alexia. Across these forms, the core meaning centers on steadfast defense and helpful protection.