Andrew is a classic male given name of Greek origin that has been widely used throughout history. The name Andrew comes from the Greek word "Ἀνδρέας" (Andreas), which means "manly" or "courageous". This name was particularly popular among early Christians and was often given to those who were believed to embody these qualities.
The name Andrew is first mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, where he is listed as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. According to biblical accounts, Andrew was a fisherman by trade but became one of Jesus' closest followers. He is also credited with introducing his brother Simon Peter to Jesus and playing an important role in the spread of Christianity.
Over time, the name Andrew has been adopted by many different cultures around the world. In England, for example, it has been used since at least the Norman Conquest in 1066. Throughout history, numerous notable figures have borne this name, including several saints, kings, and historical figures.
In Scotland, Andrew is particularly popular as a given name and is often associated with the country's patron saint, Saint Andrew. The feast day of Saint Andrew, November 30th, is celebrated annually in Scotland as a national holiday known as St. Andrew's Day.
Today, Andrew remains a widely used and beloved male given name around the world. Its meanings of "manly" or "courageous" continue to appeal to parents looking for strong and meaningful names for their sons. Whether inspired by biblical figures, historical heroes, or simply drawn to its classic sound, many choose this timeless name for their children.
"The name Andrew had a consistent popularity throughout the late 1980s with seven births each year from 1983 to 1986, followed by five births in both 1987 and 1988, then rising again to eight births in 1989. Overall, there were 39 children named Andrew born during this period."