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Alessandra

♀ Girl

Pronounced ah-leh-SAHN-drah /ˌæl.ɪˈsɑːn.drə/High

Meaning: Italian feminine form of Alessandro (Alexander), from Greek 'Alexandros' composed of 'alexein' (to defend) and 'aner/andros' (man), meaning 'defender of men'High

In 30 seconds: Alessandra is the grand Italian form of Alexandra, rolling off the tongue with unmistakable elegance. It carries the powerful meaning of 'defender of mankind' wrapped in pure Mediterranean beauty.
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Origin HighItalian, Greek
MeaningItalian feminine form of Alessandro (Alexander), from Greek 'Alexandros' composed of 'alexein' (to defend) and 'aner/andros' (man), meaning 'defender of men'
U.S. rank (2025)#443 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births697 girls (0.04% of U.S. girls)
Peak year2015
Total births (all-time)≈ 24,833

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201519432025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Alessandra is the Italian feminine form of Alessandro, which is the Italian rendering of the Greek Alexandros. The name is composed of Greek elements alexein (to defend, protect) and aner/andros (man), giving the enduring meaning 'defender of men.' It became widespread in Italy and across the Romance-speaking world through reverence for Alexander the Great.

In English-speaking countries, Alessandra has been used as an elegant alternative to Alexandra since the late 20th century. Its four syllables and Italian lilt give it a distinctly glamorous feel. The name is popular throughout Italy, Brazil, and the United States among families with Italian or Latin heritage.

Did you know? Alessandra Ambrosio, the Brazilian supermodel and Victoria's Secret Angel, brought global visibility to this name in the 2000s and 2010s, cementing its association with beauty and sophistication.
Overall data confidence 95%
Behind the Name — Alessandra — etymology and historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

AlexandraAlejandraSandraAlessia

Nicknames

AlessaAleSandraSandiAlessia

Famous Bearers

  • ★Alessandra Ambrosio (1981–present)
    Brazilian supermodel and former Victoria's Secret Angel
  • ★Alessandra Mussolini (1962–present)
    Italian politician and granddaughter of Benito Mussolini

If you like Alessandra…

Alexandra— the classical form of the same name with equal elegance
Valentina— shares the four-syllable Italian grandeur and romantic sound
Arabella— equally flowing and sophisticated multi-syllable girls' name
Isadora— another long, elegant name with classical roots and Italian flair

Frequently Asked

What does Alessandra mean?

Alessandra means 'defender of mankind,' from the Greek elements 'alexein' (to defend) and 'andros' (man). It is the Italian feminine form of Alessandro/Alexander.

How do you pronounce Alessandra?

Alessandra is pronounced ah-leh-SAHN-drah /ˌæl.ɪˈsɑːn.drə/ — four syllables with stress on the third.

Is Alessandra an Italian name?

Yes. Alessandra is the Italian feminine form of Alessandro (Alexander), widely used in Italy, Brazil, and among families of Italian heritage worldwide.

What are good nicknames for Alessandra?

Popular nicknames include Alessa, Ale, Sandra, and Alessia — giving plenty of options for everyday use.