The Elegant and Classic Name Alexandra

Alexandra is a beautiful, timeless female name with deep historical roots and enduring appeal. Originating from the Greek name Alexandros, which was derived from the words "alexo" meaning "to defend" and "aner" meaning "man", Alexandra is a strong and powerful name with a regal air.

Name Origin, Meaning, and Variations

The name Alexandra is the feminine form of the male name Alexander, which has been in use since ancient times. In Greek mythology, Alexandra was an epithet of the goddess Hera. Some common variations and alternative spellings of Alexandra include Alexa, Alexia, Lexie, and Alexandrina.

Popularity and Trends

Alexandra currently ranks at #189 on the list of most popular baby names for girls in the United States as of 2022, with 5,895 babies given this name that year. The name has remained consistently popular over the past several decades, with Alexandra ranking in the top 200 girl names since the 1990s. It saw a particular surge in usage in the early 2000s before leveling off in more recent years.

Notable Name Bearers

Some well-known real-life Alexandras include Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom, who was the wife of King Edward VII, and Alexandra Holden, the American actress known for her roles in films like Sugar & Spice and Drop Dead Gorgeous.

Style and Attributes

Alexandra is a classic, elegant name that conveys a sense of intelligence, strength, and grace. It tends to appeal to parents seeking a timeless, regal-sounding name for their daughter. Alexandra has a feminine but strong energy, and the name is often associated with qualities like confidence, leadership, and beauty.

The Sound and Flow

With its flowing, rhythmic sound and lovely emphasis on the middle syllable, Alexandra pairs beautifully with a wide range of middle and last names. Some examples of wonderful name combinations include Alexandra Grace, Alexandra Rose, and Alexandra Elizabeth.

Cultural and Literary References

The name Alexandra has appeared in various works of classic literature, including Leo Tolstoy's epic novel War and Peace, in which one of the main characters is named Princess Marya Bolkonskaya, who is also known as Princess Alexandra. The name also has ties to ancient Greek mythology and history, as it was the name of the famous female pharaoh of Egypt, Cleopatra, whose full name was Cleopatra Thea Philopator.

Alternative Name Ideas

If you're drawn to the elegant, classic feel of Alexandra but want to consider some similar name options, here are a few ideas:

• Victoria
• Isabelle
• Genevieve
• Emilia
• Gabriella

These names share Alexandra's refined, regal vibe while offering some variety in terms of origin, style, and sound.