Andrew

What does Andrew mean?

Andrew comes from the Greek name Andreas, originally meaning a male or manly quality derived from the word for man. In practice the name has long been understood to suggest physical or moral strength, often summed up as bravery or manliness in older use.

The tone of Andrew is reliably classic and solid. It feels familiar without being flashy, carrying steady, straightforward associations of dependability and quiet strength. The name sits well in families that favour traditional choices, and it pairs easily with a wide range of middle names and surnames.

Historical Context

Andrew has its roots in the Greek name Andreas, itself coming from the Greek word andros, meaning man. The name became widely known in the Christian world through Saint Andrew, one of the twelve apostles, which helped spread the name across Europe in the early medieval period.

In the British Isles Andrew has a long presence, and he is the patron saint of Scotland, which strengthened the name's use there. Various forms developed across languages, for example Andreas in Greek and German, Andre in French, and Anders in Scandinavian languages. Over time the name has remained steady rather than fashionable, making it a reliable choice for parents who value tradition and recognisability.

Popularity of Andrew over time

In 2025, Andrew was given to 127 boys in the UK and 4,497 boys in the US. Andrew has declined sharply over the last 20 years, but remains a well-used boys' name especially in the US.

What do parents think of Andrew?