Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Alejandra”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Alejandra is of Spanish origin and is the feminine form of Alejandro, which is derived from the Greek name Alexandros. Alexandros is composed of the Greek elements “alexein,” meaning “to defend,” and “aner,” meaning “man.” Throughout history, names derived from Alexandros have been popular in various cultures, particularly in Spain and Latin American countries. The name symbolizes defense and protection, attributes highly valued within these cultures.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Alejandra translates to “Defender Of Man” and embodies qualities of protection and guardianship. This name is often chosen for its strong connotation, symbolizing a champion or protector. It is popular in Spanish-speaking countries and carries the cultural significance of bravery, resilience, and strength. The name Alejandra evokes a sense of duty and honor, ensuring the bearer is seen as a steadfast and reliable guardian.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Alejandra

1. Alejandra Pizarnik

• Historical Era: 20th century
• Key Contributions: Alejandra Pizarnik was an Argentine poet known for her profound and haunting poetry. Her works often explore themes of pain, solitude, and existential angst.
• Cultural Impact: Pizarnik is revered in Latin American literature for her unique voice and emotional depth. Her poetry continues to influence and inspire readers and writers globally.

2. Alejandra Guzmán

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Alejandra Guzmán is a renowned Mexican rock singer and actress. She is often referred to as “La Reina del Rock” (The Queen of Rock) in Latin America.
• Cultural Impact: Guzmán’s contributions to music and entertainment have made her a role model for many young artists. Her bold personality and powerful performances have cemented her legacy in Latin American pop culture.

Usage Over Time

The name Alejandra has consistently been popular in Spanish-speaking regions. In the United States, Alejandra appeared frequently in the Social Security Administration’s list of popular names, reflecting its steady usage. Particularly during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the name has maintained a prominent place among baby names.

Pronunciation Guide

Alejandra is pronounced ah-le-HAHN-drah. The emphasis is on the second syllable, “HAHN,” with a rolling ‘r’ that is customary in Spanish pronunciation.

Biblical Context

While the name Alejandra itself is not found in the Bible, its root, Alexandros, is related to Alexander, a name mentioned in the New Testament. Christians might associate the name with the protective character of Saint Alexander, a third-century pope and martyr, who is renowned for his pious life and defense of the faith.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, Alejandra reduces to the number 9, which represents altruism, idealism, and a strong sense of humanity. It encompasses qualities of being spiritually inclined, compassionate, and driven by a desire to improve the world.

Variations and Cultural Variants

Variants of Alejandra in different cultures include Alexandra (English), Alessandra (Italian), and Aleksandra (Eastern European). Each variant maintains the core meaning of protection and defense.

Popularity Information

According to the Social Security Administration, the name Alejandra saw significant popularity, particularly around the 1990s and 2000s. It frequently appeared in lists of popular baby names, reflecting its enduring appeal.

Conclusion

Alejandra is a name rich in history, cultural significance, and strong positive connotations. Parents choosing this name can feel confident that their child will carry a name synonymous with protection, strength, and resilience. Alejandra is a timeless choice, embodying both tradition and contemporary relevance.