Andrzej is a Polish given name of Slavic origin. It is derived from the Proto-Slavic element *anjьdrъ, which means "strong," "powerful," or "hardy." The name was popular among the nobility in medieval Poland and has since become one of the most common names in Poland.
The name Andrzej was first recorded in the 13th century and is believed to have been brought to Poland by Ruthenian settlers. It was often used as a given name, but also served as a family name. In some cases, it was even used as a title for kings or nobles.
Over time, Andrzej has become an important part of Polish culture and heritage. Many notable figures in Polish history have borne this name, including Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski, a 16th-century scholar and reformer, and Andrzej Wójcik, a heroic soldier during World War II.
Today, Andrzej remains popular as a given name in Poland, with many parents choosing it for their sons. It is also used internationally, particularly among Polish immigrants and their descendants. The name's strong and powerful meaning continues to resonate with people around the world, making it a timeless choice for a boy's name.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Andrzej has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States. The highest number of births recorded was in 1994 with a total of 22 babies named Andrzej. This was an exceptional year as it was the only one to surpass the double-digit mark.
The name's popularity seems to fluctuate annually, with some years showing significant declines in usage. For instance, there were no more than six births recorded between the years 1966 and 1970, then it rose slightly to eight births in 1970 before increasing again to eleven births in 1971. The number of births remained relatively stable throughout the following decades, ranging from five to twelve births per year.
Notably, there were periods where the name's popularity dipped significantly. From 2000 to 2004, the number of babies named Andrzej each year was consistently low, ranging between five and ten births annually. However, since 2005, the usage has been more consistent, with numbers typically falling between six and eleven births per year.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Andrzej seems to have stabilized, with eight births recorded in both 2018 and 2019. The total number of births from 1966 to 2021 is 369, indicating that while it may not be one of the most popular names in America, it has maintained a steady presence over time.