Alexandra is a name of Greek origin, derived from the word "alexein," which means "to defend" or "to protect." It is also associated with the feminine form of Alexander, a name that has been popular throughout history and is often linked to strength and leadership.
The name Alexandra was first used by Alexander III the Great, who ruled over ancient Greece in the 4th century BCE. He named his daughter Cleopatra Thea "Alexandra" after himself, which can be translated as "defender of the people." This usage of the name helped to establish it as a popular choice for girls throughout the centuries that followed.
The name Alexandra was also used by members of European royal families, further contributing to its popularity. For instance, Queen Alexandra of Denmark was the wife of King Edward VII of the United Kingdom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, Grand Duchess Alexandra Nikolaevna of Russia was a member of the Romanov family who married into the German royal family in the mid-19th century.
In literature and art, the name Alexandra has been used to represent strong female characters. For example, it is the title character's name in the novel "Cassandra at the Wedding" by Dorothy Baker, as well as the heroine of the epic poem "Alexander" by George Gordon, Lord Byron.
Overall, the name Alexandra carries a powerful and regal connotation due to its association with strength, leadership, and historical figures. It remains a popular choice for girls today, ranking among the top 100 names in several countries around the world.
"The name Alexandra experienced a single peak of popularity in 1989 with eight births that year, but it has not maintained significant birth numbers since then."