Andrew Name Meaning
The name Andrew means 'manly, strong, brave' from Greek. Discover Andrew's biblical origin as the first apostle, personality traits, famous Andrews, and popularity.
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Quick answer
Andrew comes from the Greek 'Andreas,' derived from 'andreios' meaning 'manly,' 'brave,' or 'strong.' Its root is the Greek word 'aner' (genitive 'andros'), meaning 'man.' Saint Andrew was the first-called apostle of Jesus and is the patron saint of Scotland, Greece, and Russia, making this a timeless, internationally beloved classic.
What Does the Name Andrew Mean?
Andrew is a classic name rooted in the idea of strength and courage. For nearly two thousand years it has carried associations of bravery, faith, and steadfast character across cultures and continents.
Origin and Etymology
Greek: Andreas (Ἀνδρέας) = “manly, brave, strong”
The name is built on the Greek adjective andreios (“manly, courageous”), which itself comes from aner (genitive andros), the Greek word for “man.” The same root gives us English words like android and polyandry. Andrew was already a well-established Greek name in the ancient world before it became a Christian staple.
Saint Andrew the Apostle
The name’s worldwide spread is owed almost entirely to Saint Andrew:
- Brother of Simon Peter and, like him, a fisherman from Bethsaida
- Called Protokletos — “the First-Called” — as the first disciple Jesus summoned
- Traditionally martyred on an X-shaped cross (the crux decussata)
- Patron saint of Scotland, Greece, Russia, Ukraine, and fishermen
The Saint Andrew’s Cross appears on the Scottish flag and, through it, on the Union Jack.
Popularity
Andrew is a perennial classic that rarely falls far:
| Year | US Rank |
|---|---|
| 1950 | Top 40 |
| 1985 | Top 15 |
| 2000 | Top 10 |
| 2024 | Top 100 |
It has been a steady top-100 name in the US for over a century — the mark of a true classic that never feels dated.
Personality Associations
- Brave and strong — the literal meaning
- Dependable — a grounded, reliable presence
- Loyal — Andrew brought his brother to faith
- Intelligent — often perceived as thoughtful
- Easygoing — approachable and friendly
Famous Andrews
| Name | Known For |
|---|---|
| Andrew Carnegie | Industrialist and philanthropist |
| Andrew Jackson | 7th US President |
| Andrew Garfield | Oscar-nominated actor |
| Prince Andrew | British royal |
| Andrew Lloyd Webber | Composer of musicals |
Nicknames
| Nickname | Style |
|---|---|
| Andy | Friendly, classic |
| Drew | Cool, modern |
| Andie | Casual |
| Anders / Andre | International forms |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Andrew mean?
Andrew means 'manly,' 'brave,' and 'strong.' It comes from the Greek name 'Andreas,' built on 'andreios' (manly, courageous), whose root is 'aner / andros' meaning 'man.' So the name carries a sense of courage, strength, and masculine virtue at its core.
Who was Saint Andrew?
Saint Andrew was one of the twelve apostles and the brother of Simon Peter. He is traditionally called 'Protokletos' (the First-Called) because he was the first disciple Jesus called. According to tradition he was martyred on an X-shaped cross, which became the Saint Andrew's Cross seen on the flag of Scotland. He is the patron saint of Scotland, Greece, Russia, and Ukraine.
What is the personality of someone named Andrew?
Andrews are often described as dependable, intelligent, loyal, and grounded. The name's meaning — brave and manly — lends a steady, capable quality. Andrews tend to be seen as easygoing yet principled, the reliable friend or leader who quietly gets things done without needing the spotlight.
Is Andrew a biblical name?
Yes. Andrew is a New Testament name — he was an apostle and the brother of Simon Peter, originally a fisherman from Bethsaida. The Gospel of John records that Andrew was the first to follow Jesus and then brought his brother Peter to him, earning him a reputation as one who brings others to faith.
What are the nicknames for Andrew?
The most common nicknames are Andy and Drew, both widely used and friendly. Other forms include Andie, And, and the Scottish Andra. In other languages the name appears as Andre, Andreas, Andrei, Andres, and Anders, giving it broad international reach.