Andersen is a Danish masculine given name, derived from the patronymic surname Anders, which means "son of Anders". The name Anders itself originates from the Greek personal name Andreas, composed of the elements "ἀνήρ" (anér), meaning "man", and "-άνδρος" (-ándros), meaning "like a man".
The name Andersen was popularized by Hans Christian Andersen, a famous Danish author known for his fairy tales such as "The Little Mermaid," "The Ugly Duckling," and "The Emperor's New Clothes." Born on April 2, 1805, in Odense, Denmark, Andersen came from humble beginnings but rose to become one of the most revered storytellers of all time. His works have been translated into more than 150 languages and have enchanted children and adults alike for generations.
While Andersen is predominantly associated with Denmark, it has gained global recognition due to the widespread popularity of Hans Christian Andersen's stories. Today, Andersen remains a popular choice among parents seeking unique yet meaningful names for their sons. It also serves as an enduring tribute to the literary legacy of Hans Christian Andersen and his timeless tales that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
In terms of popularity, Andersen has been relatively consistent in its usage throughout history, with some variations in trends across different countries. In Denmark, it consistently ranks among the top 100 most popular names for boys but has not reached the peak popularity levels seen by other Scandinavian names such as Daniel or Alexander. Internationally, Andersen remains a niche choice, appealing more to parents who appreciate its literary heritage and distinctive sound.
In conclusion, Andersen is a Danish masculine given name with roots tracing back to the Greek personal name Andreas. While it may not be among the most popular boy's names today, its association with Hans Christian Andersen ensures that Andersen holds significant cultural value and continues to be chosen by families around the world who wish to honor the enduring legacy of this renowned author.
The name Andersen experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1990s to the mid-2010s, peaking at 50 births in 2015, before declining slightly in recent years with only 15 births recorded in 2023. Over the entire period from 1988 to 2023, there were a total of 898 babies named Andersen.