Sandra

girlGreek

Sandra is a girl name of Greek, via Italian origin, meaning “Defender of men”.

MeaningDefender of men
GenderGirl
OriginGreek, via Italian
PronunciationSAN-druh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Italy, Germany, Spain

Meaning and origin of Sandra

Sandra began as an Italian short form of Alessandra, the feminine of Alessandro, Greek Alexandros, made of alexein, 'to defend', and aner, 'man'. George Meredith's novel Sandra Belloni (1886) helped to bring it into English. It was one of the most popular names in America and Britain in the 1940s to 1960s. Famous bearers include the actress Sandra Bullock.

Is Sandra a religious name?

Sandra is a short form of Alexandra, with no specific religious background.

How popular is Sandra?

Very common in the mid-twentieth century; uncommon for newborns today.

Gifts with the name Sandra

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Spellings and variants of Sandra

Names similar to Sandra

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Sandra mean?

Sandra means 'Defender of men'. It is of Greek, via Italian origin.

Does Sandra have a religious meaning?

Sandra is a short form of Alexandra, with no specific religious background.

How do you pronounce Sandra?

Sandra is pronounced SAN-druh.

Is Sandra a boy or girl name?

Sandra is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.