Alexander — Latinized form of the Greek name Αλεξανδρος (Alexandros), which meant "defending men" from Greek αλεξω (alexo) "to defend, help" and ανηρ (aner) "man" (genitive ανδρος). In Greek mythology this was another name of the hero Paris, and it also belongs to several characters in the New Testament. However, the most famous bearer was Alexander the Great, King of Macedon.
Biblical namesake: Alexander is mentioned in the New Testament as the son of Simon of Cyrene, who carried Jesus' cross. His brief mention connects him to a moment of compassion during the crucifixion story. (Mark · Mark 15:21)
Saintly namesake: Pope Alexander I was an early pope and martyr, serving as Bishop of Rome in the 2nd century. He is one of several saints named Alexander. (May 3 · 2nd century)
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