Origin and Meaning of Alistair

Defender of mankind

Origin: Scottish - Alistair is derived from the Gaelic name 'Alasdair,' which is a form of Alexander. The name Alexander comes from the Greek 'Alexandros,' which means 'defender of men.'

• Alistair is a traditional Scottish name and has been in use since the Middle Ages, often associated with nobility and landowners.
• The name is popular in Scotland and among Scottish communities worldwide, with variations such as Alasdair and Alastair being used prominently.
• Notable bearers include Alistair Cooke, a famous British-American broadcaster and writer known for his long-running PBS series 'Masterpiece Theatre.'
• Alistair's popularity has fluctuated but remains a classic choice in the UK; it gained popularity in the early 20th century and has maintained a steady presence.
• Variations of the name include Alasdair, Alastair, and even the anglicized form Alexander, which is more widely used globally.