Andrea

Meaning & origin

Andrea is a classic name with deep roots in many cultures. It serves as the feminine form of Andrew in English, though it is traditionally masculine in Italian. The name's popularity surged in the United States during the latter half of the 20th century, peaking in 1981, and has been gradually falling since 1985. In its peak year, it was a top choice, reflecting the trend toward elegant, cross-cultural names. As of 2025, Andrea still holds a solid presence at rank 235, with approximately 1 in every 1,220 baby girls receiving the name. The highest concentrations of Andreas are found in Washington, D.C., Texas, and Arizona. Despite the decline, Andrea remains a familiar and well-liked choice, appreciated for its melodic sound and international flair.

Andrea is the feminine form of Andrew, derived from the Greek name Andreas, which comes from the word aner (genitive andros) meaning 'man.' The name thus carries the sense of 'manly' or 'brave,' reflecting qualities of strength and courage. It has been used throughout Europe and the Americas, with the Italian pronunciation 'ahn-DRAY-uh' being common in many regions. Andrea gained significant popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1980s, and remains a familiar classic.