Alexandre is a French masculine given name, derived from the Greek 'Alexandros', which means 'defender of mankind'. This name has been popular throughout history and across various cultures, with notable bearers including Alexander the Great, the ancient Macedonian king who conquered much of the known world.
In France, Alexandre has been a consistent favorite among parents, ranking among the top 100 names for boys in recent years. It's also a common name in other French-speaking regions and countries such as Belgium, Canada, and Switzerland.
The name Alexandre is often shortened to Alex or Sasha, providing some variation and flexibility. It has two traditional spelling variations: Alexandre with an 's', which is more common in France, and Alejandro with a 'j', which is popular in Spanish-speaking countries but also used among French speakers.
Historically, the name Alexandre has been associated with strength, courage, and leadership due to its famous bearer Alexander the Great. However, it's essential to note that the popularity of this name does not rest solely on these associations; rather, parents may be drawn to it for its elegance, simplicity, and rich history.
In literature, Alexandre appears as a character in works such as "Candide" by Voltaire, further contributing to the name's cultural significance. Overall, Alexandre is a versatile, timeless name with a strong connection to French culture and history.
The name Alexandre experienced a peak in popularity between 1987 and 1994, with the highest number of births occurring in 1989 at 14 births. However, it appears that its popularity has significantly declined since then, with fewer than 10 births annually from 2000 onwards.