Alexandre

The given name Alexandre is a distinguished masculine name of Greek origin, recognized for its profound historical legacy and potent meaning.

Origin

Alexandre is primarily the French and Portuguese form of the ancient Greek name Alexandros (Αλέξανδρος). This name is a compound word derived from two Greek elements: aléxein (ἀλέξειν), meaning 'to defend' or 'to protect,' and anēr (ἀνήρ, genitive andrós, ἀνδρός), meaning 'man' or 'warrior.' Its roots are thus firmly planted in classical antiquity.

Meaning

The etymological meaning of Alexandre, translated from its constituent Greek parts, is 'defender of man,' 'protector of mankind,' or 'helper of humanity.' This interpretation conveys inherent qualities of strength, courage, and guardianship.

Historical Significance and Variations

The name's extensive dissemination and enduring popularity are largely attributed to Alexander the Great (356-323 BCE), the King of Macedon. His military conquests and the subsequent spread of Hellenistic culture carried the name across vast regions. Consequently, numerous cognates and variations exist in different languages, including Alexander (English, German, Scandinavian languages), Alejandro (Spanish), Alessandro (Italian), Aleksandr (Russian), and Iskandar (Arabic, Persian). 'Alexandre' itself is prominent in French-speaking and Portuguese-speaking cultures.