All about the name

Alexandra

Male

« The feminine given name Alexandra originates from Greek, meaning "defending men" or "protecting mankind". »

#16359 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

Alexandra is a female given name of Greek origin. It comes from the Greek word "alexein" which means to defend or protect, and "andros" meaning man. Therefore, the name Alexandra translates to "defending men" or "protecting mankind". It is a unisex name in some cultures, but it is most commonly used for females. The name Alexandra has been popular throughout history. One of the most notable figures bearing this name was Queen Alexandra of Denmark, who married King Edward VII of the United Kingdom in 1863. She was a significant figure in British royal history and is remembered for her kindness, intelligence, and charm. In literature, the name Alexandra has also been used prominently. It is the title character in both the novel "Alexandra" by Robin Waterfield and the play "Alexandre le Grand" by Jean Racine. Additionally, the name was popularized in the 19th century due to Alexander Pushkin's poem "Eugene Onegin", which features a character named Tatiana Alexandrovna. Today, Alexandra remains a popular choice for parents naming their daughters. It has consistently ranked among the top 500 names for girls in the United States since the 1980s. The name is also widely recognized and appreciated across different cultures, making it a versatile and timeless option for parents seeking a meaningful and elegant name for their daughter.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Alexandra since 1880

Total births
869
Total since 1880
Peak year
1989
99 births
in 2021
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+25%
vs previous 5 years