Alistair
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What does the baby name Alistair mean? Learn about what Alistair means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Alistair - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Alistair
- A-L-I-S-T-A-I-R, is a 8-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Alistair
- AL iss tair
- Meaning of Alistair
- Defender of mankind, defender of the people.
- Origin of Alistair
- The name 'Alistair' has its origins in Scotland and is derived from the Greek name Alexandros, which means 'defender of men' or 'protector of mankind'. It is a variant of the more commonly known name Alexander. The earliest known use of the name 'Alistair' can be traced back to medieval Scotland, where it was a popular choice among the nobility.
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- Popularity of Alistair
- Over time, the popularity of the name 'Alistair' has experienced fluctuations. In the early centuries, it was primarily used within Scottish and English aristocratic families. However, in recent years, it has gained popularity beyond these circles and has become a favored choice among parents seeking a strong and sophisticated name for their sons.
- Alistair currently has 177 likes, and is in the top 3% of liked boy's names. The name Greyson is slightly more popular than Alistair.
Etymology of Alistair
As mentioned earlier, the name 'Alistair' is derived from the Greek name Alexandros. The Greek name itself is a combination of the words 'alexein', meaning 'to defend', and 'andros', meaning 'man'. This etymology reflects the name's meaning of being a defender or protector of mankind.
Cultural Significance of Alistair
The name 'Alistair' holds cultural significance, particularly within Scottish and English history. It is associated with nobility, strength, and honor. In Scottish folklore and literature, characters named 'Alistair' are often portrayed as brave and valiant warriors, embodying the spirit of Scottish heritage. The name has also been used in various works of fiction, further solidifying its cultural impact.