According to the Social Security Administration, in 2023, the name Andrew was ranked 65th in popularity in the US. Over the past couple of years, my name has slowly fallen in popularity. From its most recent span of popularity, it ranked 5th in 2003 and has slowly declined by about 5-10 positions per year (“Popularity of name Andrew”). While its popularity has diminished, I don’t feel pressure to carry the weight of its past significance. Instead, I recognize that, like any name, its meaning can evolve as I make my own choices and create my own identity. 

The name stems from the Greek name Ἀνδρέας (Andreas) which is from the word ἀνδρεῖος (Andreios) meaning manly, or masculine (Campbell). This might have carried a connotation in ancient times, but for me, it holds a much more personal meaning. Andrew also has an important place in religious history. In Christianity, Andrew was the first disciple of Jesus and the brother of Peter, one of the most pivotal figures in Christianity. Despite the historical weight of this connection, I don’t feel bound by it; I see it as an inspiring foundation upon which I can build my own story. Apostle Andrew was known for spreading the Gospel across the Black Sea region, and his legacy is symbolized by an “X” shaped cross—reminding me that how I live and the impact I make is what will ultimately define my name, not ancient stories (Campbell).

Andrew also appears in other parts of history, such as with Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Jackson’s legacy is often tied to military triumphs like the Battle of New Orleans, where he led 4,000 Americans to victory against 5,300 British troops. His name carries strength and triumph (“Battle of New Orleans”). Contrastingly, Andrew Johnson is remembered for his troubled presidency, which led to his impeachment over his support of the Tenure Office Act (“Andrew Johnson”). In both cases, the name Andrew is steeped in history, but it’s the actions of these men that define their legacies. Like them, it’s my actions that will define mine.

Although I have no direct connection to the roots of my name, it’s fascinating to see where it has appeared throughout history. But what excites me most is that I have the chance to make my own mark. Seeing my name in these places reminds me that I have the power to shape its meaning. Through my choices and my life, I get to define what the name Andrew means. I get to name myself.

Works Cited

“Andrew Johnson.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 25 Dec. 2024, www.britannica.com/biography/Andrew-Johnson. Accesed 8 Feb. 2025.

“The Battle of New Orleans.” WHHA (En-US), www.whitehousehistory.org/the-battle-of-new-orleans. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

Campbell, Mike. “Meaning, Origin and History of the Name Andrew.” Behind the Name, www.behindthename.com/name/andrew. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025. 

“Popularity of name Andrew” U.S. SSA Baby Names Database, U.S. Social Security Administration, www.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/babyname.cgi. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.