Origin of the Name Alexandra
The name Alexandra is a timeless and elegant choice for girls, with a rich history and enduring popularity in English-speaking countries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was derived from the word “alexandros,” meaning “protector of men.” In Greek mythology, Alexandra was the name of a powerful goddess who epitomized feminine strength and wisdom.
Many people who have the name Alexandra are more commonly known as Alex.
Meaning
The actual meaning of Alexandra is the ‘defender of men’ or put another way ‘the defender of mankind’.
How to Pronounce Alexandra?
Alexandra is pronounced as ‘Alex-and-dra’.
Famous People
In English literature, the name Alexandra has been associated with several notable characters, further cementing its popularity. In Jane Austen’s beloved novel “Pride and Prejudice,” Alexandra Bennet is portrayed as a kind and sensible young woman, while in Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist,” Alexandra Sowerberry is a compassionate and caring figure.
There are many famous individuals with the name Alexandra. To list just a few of the famous:
- Alexandra Feodorvna, Emperor from 1872 to 1918
- Alexandra Burke, a singer and songwriter from London won the UK talent show The X Factor in 2008.
- Charlotte Alexandra “Alex” Jones, A TV presenter who hosts the ‘One Show’.
- Alexandra Danilova, She was a famous dancer born in 1903. She died at age 93. She was a famous Russian ballerina
Popularity Of The Name Alexandra
Over time, the name Alexandra spread throughout the world, gaining prominence in various cultures and languages. In England, the name has been in continuous use since the Middle Ages, and it has consistently ranked among the most popular girls’ names for centuries.
This name didn’t become popular in Britain until the 13th century. The name especially grew in popularity when King Edward Vll married Alexandra.
Today, the name Alexandra remains a popular choice for English parents, with its ranking consistently within the top 100 girls’ names. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its timeless elegance, rich history, and association with positive and inspiring characters.
In the year 2022, Alexandra did not make it into the 100 most popular baby girls’ names in England (ONS data). It was last in the top 100 baby girls’ names in England in 2010.
Useful Resources
- Discover more girls’ names on our website
