What Does the Name Andrew Mean? Origin, Popularity & Full Guide
Andrew is a Greek name meaning “manly,” “brave,” and “courageous.” Ranked #46 in the United States in 2023, Andrew has remained consistently popular for over a century. This timeless masculine name carries deep biblical significance as the first disciple called by Jesus Christ, making it meaningful across Christian traditions worldwide.
AT A GLANCE WIDGET
What Does the Name Andrew Mean?
Andrew conveys strength, masculinity, and courage through its powerful Greek roots. The name speaks to parents seeking a moniker that embodies traditional masculine virtues without being aggressive. Its meaning resonates across cultures because bravery and manliness remain universally admired qualities in children and adults alike.
Etymology Box
Etymology of Andrew
Tap to explore the name’s linguistic rootsAndreas was the original Greek form of Andrew, used in ancient Greece and later adopted into the New Testament. The name appears in classical texts dating back to the 4th century BCE.
Source: Etymonline Dictionary
Originating in Ancient Greek, the name traveled through Latin, Old English, and Middle English before reaching its modern form. Greek names often carried meanings related to personal qualities.
Source: Etymonline Dictionary
Derived from the Greek word ἀνήρ (aner), meaning “man” or “warrior.” The genitive form ἀνδρός (andros) means “of a man,” conveying qualities of masculinity and strength.
Source: Behind the Name
The name maintained its core meaning of “manly” and “brave” throughout centuries of linguistic transformation, traveling across languages and cultures.
Source: Etymonline Dictionary
What Is the Origin of the Name Andrew?
The name Andrew traces its origins to ancient Greece, specifically from the Greek name Andreas, derived from the word “aner” meaning man. Its journey spans over two millennia, traveling through Latin, various European languages, and eventually becoming a cornerstone name in English-speaking nations.
Linguistic Roots
The Greek root “aner” (ἀνήρ) means man, warrior, or husband in ancient texts. This root evolved into “andros,” the genitive form, which directly influenced the formation of Andreas. The linguistic journey reveals how Greek concepts of masculinity shaped naming traditions across Western civilization.
How Andrew Evolved
Andrew transformed from ancient Greek Andreas through Latin translations of biblical texts. Medieval scribes adapted it across European languages, and by the Middle Ages, it had become established throughout Christian Europe as a venerated name honoring the apostle Andrew.
Is Andrew a Boy or Girl Name?
Andrew is predominantly a boy’s name, with over 99% of recorded uses being male according to U.S. Social Security Administration data spanning more than a century. The name has maintained exclusively masculine associations throughout its history, from ancient Greek origins through modern usage.
What Does Andrew Mean Across Religions?
Andrew carries significant religious weight, particularly within Christianity where it honors one of Jesus Christ’s original twelve apostles. The name bridges denominational boundaries while maintaining its Greek origins, offering spiritual significance for families across faith traditions.
Islam
Andrew is considered permissible (Mubah) in Islamic tradition because its meaning of “brave” and “manly” aligns with positive values. The name is not Arabic in origin but carries no prohibited connotations, making it acceptable for Muslim families who appreciate its virtuous meaning.
Christianity
Andrew holds profound significance in Christianity as the name of the first disciple called by Jesus Christ. Saint Andrew is venerated as the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, and Greece. The name appears prominently in the New Testament in Matthew 4:18-20, where Jesus calls Andrew and his brother Simon Peter to become “fishers of men.”
Judaism
Andrew has no traditional connection to Judaism as it originates from Greek rather than Hebrew. Jewish naming conventions typically favor Hebrew or Yiddish names with direct scriptural connections. The name does not appear in the Torah or traditional Jewish texts.
How Popular Is the Name Andrew?
Andrew ranked #46 in the United States in 2023, with 6,237 births recorded according to the U.S. Social Security Administration. The name has demonstrated remarkable staying power, maintaining top-50 status for decades and enjoying a remarkable 18-year streak in the top 10 from 1986 to 2004.
US History
Andrew enjoyed peak popularity from 1986-2004 with a consistent top-10 ranking. The name reached its apex at #6 in 2003, demonstrating its immense appeal during that era. Since then, it has gradually declined but remains firmly established in the top 50 as of 2023.
Global
Andrew maintains international presence, ranking #163 in England and Wales in 2022 and #109 in Scotland in 2023. Its global reach reflects the name’s Christian heritage and English-language influence across former British Commonwealth nations.
The Unique Value of the Name Andrew
Andrew’s unique value lies in its remarkable combination of ancient heritage and contemporary relevance. Few names can claim over 2,000 years of documented use while remaining consistently popular in modern times, making Andrew a bridge between antiquity and today.
Key Facts
Andrew stands apart through its documented history spanning millennia, its biblical significance as the first apostle’s name, its linguistic purity maintaining original meaning, and its cross-cultural acceptance throughout Western civilization.
Expert Rating
Our editorial analysis rates Andrew highly across multiple dimensions including sound quality, cultural depth, and practical usability. The name scores particularly well in cultural heritage and ease of spelling, reflecting its established position in English-speaking societies.
Personality & Vibe
Andrew projects an image of reliability, strength, and approachability. The name carries connotations of traditional masculinity tempered with intellectual depth. Cultural perception—not scientific research.
Pros and Cons
Andrew offers parents a name with proven longevity and broad acceptance. However, its sustained popularity means children may share their name with classmates. Our assessment weighs both strengths and considerations to help parents make informed decisions.
Is Andrew a Good Baby Name in 2025?
Yes, Andrew remains an excellent choice for babies born in 2025. Check the details below:

Andrew Name Character and Life Path
Names carry cultural weight and expectations that can subtly influence how others perceive an individual. Andrew’s long history and consistent meaning have created associations that many find appealing when considering this name for their child.
Emotional Spectrum
Andrew suggests emotional stability and measured responses to life’s challenges. The name carries undertones of reliability and steadfastness in how its bearers might navigate complex emotional landscapes.
Personal Integrity
The name Andrew associates with honesty, fairness, and moral courage. Its meaning of “brave” and “manly” extends beyond physical strength to encompass ethical fortitude and principled decision-making.
Relationships
Andrew implies loyalty and commitment in personal relationships. The name’s traditional character suggests someone who values lasting connections and approaches relationships with sincerity and dedication.
Career & Life
Andrew connects to leadership, ambition, and professional achievement. Historical bearers demonstrate success across diverse fields from presidency to arts, suggesting versatility and drive in career pursuits.
Name Pairings for Andrew
Andrew pairs beautifully with various middle names, nicknames, and sibling names due to its classic two-syllable structure and soft ending consonant. The name’s versatility allows creative combinations while maintaining harmonious flow.
Nicknames
Andrew offers several natural nickname options that provide flexibility from childhood through adulthood. These diminutives range from casual to distinguished.
Middle Names
Middle name selection benefits from Andrew’s two-syllable structure and strong initial vowel sound. One-syllable middle names create punchy combinations while longer names offer elegant contrast.
Sibling Names
Sibling names for Andrew should share its timeless quality while maintaining individual distinction. Names with similar classical roots or comparable popularity ranges work particularly well.
Similar Names
Names similar to Andrew share qualities like Greek origins, biblical connections, or comparable popularity trajectories. These alternatives offer similar appeal with subtle distinctions.

Famous People Named Andrew
Andrew boasts an impressive roster of historical figures, from apostles to presidents to modern entertainers. The name’s consistent popularity has ensured representation across virtually every field of human achievement throughout history.
Saint Andrew (c. 5 BC – c. 60 AD)
Saint Andrew established the name’s spiritual foundation, making it meaningful for Christian families worldwide.
Andrew Jackson (1767–1845)
Presidential prestige elevated the name’s standing in American society.
Andrew Carnegie (1835–1919)
Carnegie associated the name with generosity and American success.
Andrew Lloyd Webber (1948–)
Andrew Lloyd Webber is the most commercially successful composer in musical theatre history, creating iconic works like The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Why it matters for the name Andrew: His artistic achievements link Andrew to creativity and cultural influence.
Andrew Garfield (1983–)
Modern celebrity keeps Andrew relevant for younger generations.
Parents Who Like Andrew Also Like
Parents drawn to Andrew typically appreciate names with similar qualities: classical roots, biblical connections, and established recognition. These names share Andrew’s balance of tradition and accessibility.

Final Thoughts on the Name Andrew
Andrew delivers a rare combination of historical depth and modern relevance that few names can match. Its Greek origins meaning “manly” and “brave” carry forward 2,000 years of cultural significance, while its consistent top-50 ranking demonstrates enduring parental trust. The name bridges ancient heritage with contemporary appeal, offering children a moniker that works equally well in kindergarten classrooms and corporate boardrooms. For parents seeking substance over trends, Andrew remains a choice that will never feel dated, never require explanation, and always command respect.
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