Alexander is a name of Greek origin that has been popular throughout history and across cultures. It is derived from the Greek word "alexein," which means "to defend" or "to protect." The second part of the name, "ander," comes from the Greek word "anḗr," meaning "man."
The name Alexander is most famously associated with Alexander the Great, the ancient Macedonian king who conquered much of the known world in the 4th century BCE. Throughout history, many other notable figures have borne this name, including several saints and several popes.
Today, Alexander remains a popular boys' name in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Australia. While traditionally given to boys, it has also been used as a girls' name in recent years, often spelled as Alixander or Alxander.
Overall, the name Alexander carries with it a strong and noble history, and its meaning "defender" or "protector" continues to resonate with parents today. Whether given to a boy or girl, it is a powerful and timeless choice.
"Over three decades, the name Alixander saw a significant increase in popularity, with notable spikes between 1994 and 2009, peaking at 18 births in 2005. However, it has since seen a decline, with only 9 births recorded in 2021."