What does Alexander mean in Irish?

Answered by Jason Smith

The meaning of the name Alexander in Irish is slightly different from its original Greek meaning. In Irish, the name Alexander is often anglicized as “Alastar” or “Alasdair.” The Irish equivalent of Alexander is “Alecsandr,” which is a Gaelicized form of the name.

In Irish, the name Alecsandr carries a similar meaning to its Greek counterpart. It is derived from the Gaelic words “ala,” meaning “defender,” and “ceann,” meaning “head” or “chief.” So, when translated, the name Alecsandr can be understood as “defender of the people” or “chief defender.”

It is interesting to note that the name Alexander has a long history in Ireland. It is believed to have been introduced by the Anglo-Normans during the medieval period. Over time, it became a popular given name among the Irish population.

In my personal experience, I have come across several individuals with the name Alexander or its Irish variants in Ireland. It is a name that carries a sense of strength and protection, reflecting the meaning it holds in both Greek and Irish cultures.

To summarize, in Irish, the name Alexander is often anglicized as “Alastar” or “Alasdair,” and its Gaelicized form is “Alecsandr.” It carries a similar meaning to its Greek counterpart, signifying a defender or protector of the people. The name has a long history in Ireland and is still used today.