HomeBaby Names DirectoryAnders

Anders

♂ Boy

Pronounced AN-ders /ˈæn.dərz/High

Meaning: Scandinavian form of Andrew, from Greek Andreas, derived from aner (genitive andros) meaning man, brave man, or warriorHigh

In 30 seconds: Anders is the cool Scandinavian form of Andrew meaning manly and brave. With Norse heritage and a strong, streamlined sound, it is rising as parents seek distinguished European alternatives to the more common Andrew.
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Origin HighGreek, Scandinavian
MeaningScandinavian form of Andrew, from Greek Andreas, derived from aner (genitive andros) meaning man, brave man, or warrior
U.S. rank (2025)#984 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births232 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2014
Total births (all-time)≈ 8,025

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201419122025

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

History & Origin

Anders is the standard Scandinavian form of the Greek Andreas, which derived from aner meaning man or brave warrior. It has been a common given name in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark for centuries.

Anders has been gaining popularity in the United States in the 2000s and 2010s, driven by the trend for Scandinavian names and by the appeal of its crisp, confident sound. It fits alongside other Scandinavian imports like Sven, Erik, and Lars.

Did you know? Anders Celsius (1701–1744), the Swedish astronomer and physicist, invented the Celsius temperature scale, which was originally called the centigrade scale. His name is now spoken millions of times daily in temperature forecasts worldwide.
Overall data confidence 96%
Behind the Name — Anders — Scandinavian form of AndrewU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

AndrewAndreasAndre

Nicknames

AndyAnder

Famous Bearers

  • Anders Celsius (1701–1744)
    Swedish astronomer and physicist who proposed the Celsius (centigrade) temperature scale in 1742, and a professor at Uppsala University.

If you like Anders…

Andrew— direct source name sharing the same Greek brave man meaning
Henrik— same Scandinavian classic masculine name with European intellectual prestige
Axel— shares the Scandinavian heritage and the confident two-syllable modern feel
Soren— same Scandinavian naming tradition and distinctive European alternative appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Anders mean?

Anders means manly, brave, or warrior as the Scandinavian form of Andrew, from Greek Andreas derived from aner (man).

How do you pronounce Anders?

It is said AN-ders, with two syllables and stress on the first.

Is Anders a Scandinavian name?

Yes, Anders is the standard form of Andrew in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. It has been used in Scandinavia for centuries.

Who is Anders Celsius?

Anders Celsius (1701-1744) was a Swedish astronomer who invented the Celsius temperature scale, now used daily in weather forecasts worldwide.