International Variations of Alexandra

  1. Sacha
    • Origin:

      French variation of Sasha, diminutive of Alexander
    • Meaning:

      "defending warrior"
    • Description:

      Sasha in all its forms -- which include Sacha and Sascha -- is rising in popularity for both boys and girls, especially with the Sasha spelling attached to one of the First Daughters.
  2. Alessa
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "defender of men"
    • Description:

      Italian form of Alexa, sometimes short for Alessandra, which sidesteps the Amazon Alexa issue.
  3. Lexa
    • Description:

      Lexa is a feminine name with multiple origin possibilities. Most commonly, it's considered a shortened form of Alexandra, which derives from Greek elements meaning 'defender of mankind.' It also functions as an independent diminutive of Alexis or Alexa. In Slavic languages, particularly Czech and Slovak, Lexa can be a nickname for names containing the Alex- element. The name gained modest recognition following the introduction of the character Commander Lexa in the television series 'The 100' (2014-2016). With its crisp, modern sound combining the popular 'Lex' sound with a feminine ending, Lexa appeals to parents seeking short, strong feminine names that balance contemporary style with classical roots.

  4. Ala
    • Origin:

      Igbo, Polish, diminutive of Alicja
    • Meaning:

      "nobility"
    • Description:

      Ala is the Igbo earth goddess whose symbol is the crescent moon. In a very different vein, Ala can be a diminutive for Alicja or Alexandra or really any other name with an A at both ends and an L in the middle. Ala is also an Arabic name meaning "excellence, supremacy"; could be confused as a homonym for Allah, or as part of a phrase like a la mode.
  5. Alondra
    • Origin:

      Pet form of Alejandra or Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "lark"
    • Description:

      A Spanish TV show made this one popular, along with single-named Mexican singer, Alondra.
  6. Olesia
    • Origin:

      Polish, diminutive of Aleksandra
    • Description:

      Sounds a bit pharmaceutical.
  7. Sasa
    • Origin:

      Cherokee
    • Meaning:

      "goose"
  8. Aleksey
    • Origin:

      Russian
    • Meaning:

      "defender"
    • Description:

      Alternative transliteration of Alexei
  9. Zandra
    • Origin:

      Variation of Sandra and Alexandra
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      A name that is rarely heard and might be worth considering as a way of zipping up a namesake Sandra. It has long been associated with iconoclastic British fashion designer Zandra Rhodes.
  10. Drina
    • Description:

      Drina is a feminine name with Slavic origins, most commonly found in the Balkan region. It derives from the Drina River that flows through Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, forming part of their border. As a personal name, Drina carries the natural beauty and cultural significance of its geographical namesake. The name has a melodic quality with its simple two-syllable structure and flowing sound. While uncommon in Western countries, it has maintained steady usage in Eastern European communities. Drina has a distinctive character that combines natural imagery with cultural heritage. Parents might be drawn to this name for its uniqueness, graceful sound, and connection to Slavic heritage.

  11. Xandi
    • Description:

      Xandi is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive or variant of Alexandra or Cassandra. With its distinctive 'X' beginning, it carries a contemporary, dynamic feel while maintaining a soft sound. The name has cross-cultural appeal, with possible connections to Greek origins through its parent names, while its structure feels modern and distinctive. Xandi remains relatively uncommon in most Western countries, making it a unique choice that still sounds approachable. The name balances uniqueness with familiarity—it's recognizable in structure but distinctive in form. Parents might choose Xandi for its modern edge, its brevity, and its friendly sound, while avoiding the more common Alexandra or Cassie variations.

  12. Olesya
    • Description:

      Olesya is a feminine name of Slavic origin, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It derives from the ancient Slavic name Aleks, meaning 'defender' or 'protector of humanity.' Olesya has a long history in Slavic countries but remains relatively uncommon in Western nations, giving it a distinctive yet authentic feel. The name carries a melodious quality with its flowing vowels and soft consonants. In Russia, the name gained popularity during the 20th century and continues to be used. Olesya offers an accessible entry point to Slavic naming traditions for international parents, as its pronunciation is relatively intuitive for English speakers while maintaining its cultural roots and distinctive character.
  13. Alli
    • Description:

      Alli is a versatile name that functions across genders, though it's presented here as feminine. It has multiple origins: it can be a diminutive of Allison, Alice, or Alexandra for girls, giving it English and Greek connections. In Finnish and Icelandic contexts, it stands as an independent name, with meanings relating to 'noble' or 'complete.' The name's simplicity and friendly sound have contributed to its periodic popularity as both a given name and nickname. In some Native American traditions, variants of the name may connect to words meaning 'graceful.' Alli has maintained modest usage throughout the decades, appreciated for its unpretentious charm and adaptability across cultures and age groups.

  14. Alexandrie
    • Description:

      Alexandrie is a feminine name that represents a French variation of Alexandra, which ultimately derives from the Greek name Alexandros meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This elegant variation adds a distinctly French flair to the classic name through its ending. While Alexandra and Alexandria are more common internationally, Alexandrie offers a sophisticated European alternative with its soft pronunciation and graceful ending. The name carries the strength and historical significance of its Greek origins while adding a touch of French refinement. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it may appeal to parents seeking a name with international appeal and classical roots but with a distinctive, feminine quality.

  15. Xandra
    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Alexandra
    • Meaning:

      "man's defender"
    • Description:

      The initial X is pronounced like a Z. Confusing? Potentially. But there are enough Alexandras and Xanders through the Western World these days that this spelling wouldn't seem outlandish.
  16. Alastriona
    • Origin:

      Irish: feminine form of Alasdar
    • Description:

      Spelled Alastríona in its native language, this Irish cousin of Alexandra is little-known but fairly intuitive.
  17. Shura
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Alexandra
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      Shura is a unisex Russian nickname for Aleksandr or Aleksandra, themselves forms of Alexander. Less known in the English-speaking world than Sasha, it's also more assertive — probably because of that "sure" sound.
  18. Aleska
    • Description:

      Aleska is a feminine name that likely developed as a variation of Aleksandra or Alexia, names deriving from the Greek Alexandros, meaning "defender of mankind." With Slavic influences evident in its spelling and sound, Aleska is primarily found in Eastern European countries like Hungary, Poland, and Russia, though it remains relatively uncommon even there. The name carries a contemporary feel while maintaining connections to traditional naming patterns. Aleska offers an exotic alternative to more common Alexandra derivatives while preserving the strong meaning and heritage. Its appealing sound combines strength and femininity, making it increasingly attractive to parents seeking distinctive international names. Though still rare globally, it has seen occasional usage outside Eastern Europe in recent decades.

  19. Olexa
    • Description:

      Olexa is a feminine name with Slavic origins, functioning as a Ukrainian variant of Alexandra, which derives from the Greek elements meaning "defender" or "protector of mankind." This distinctive name carries a beautiful rhythm and exotic quality while maintaining connections to a classic name. In Ukrainian culture, Olexa (sometimes spelled Oleksa) can also be used as a masculine name. The feminine version remains quite rare in Western countries, offering an unusual yet accessible option for parents seeking something distinctive with legitimate cultural roots. Its melodic sound and interesting 'x' make it stand out, while its connection to the widespread Alexandra family of names provides familiar ground.

  20. Saundra
    • Description:

      Saundra is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Sandra, which itself is a shortened form of Alexandra. This name has Greek origins, ultimately derived from the Greek word "alexein" meaning "to defend" or "to help." Saundra gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1940s through the 1960s, reaching its peak usage in the mid-1950s. The distinctive spelling with 'u' gives the name a slightly more sophisticated or unique quality compared to the more common Sandra. While its usage has declined since the 1970s, Saundra maintains appeal among parents who appreciate vintage names or seek to honor family members. The name carries connotations of strength and dependability, reflecting its etymological roots.