Alexandra is a female given name of Greek origin. It is composed of two elements: "alexein", which means "to defend" or "to protect", and "andros", which means "man". Therefore, the name Alexandra can be translated as "defending men" or "protecting men".
The name Alexandra has a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece. It was first used in the 4th century BC when it was given to Princess Alexandra of Macedon, who was a daughter of King Cassander and Queen Thessalonike. Since then, the name has been associated with royalty and power throughout history.
In the Middle Ages, the name Alexandra became popular among European nobility. Many queens and princesses were named Alexandra, including Saint Alexandra of Scotland, who lived in the 12th century. The name also gained popularity during the Renaissance period, with famous figures such as Alexandra of Flanders and Alexandra of Hesse and by Rhine.
Today, Alexandra is a popular name worldwide. It has been consistently ranked among the top 1000 baby names in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European nations. Despite its popularity, the name remains timeless and elegant, reflecting its ancient Greek origins and rich historical legacy.
"The name Alexandra experienced a slight increase in popularity between 1987 and 1991, with 6 babies named Alexandra born in the latter year compared to 5 in the former."