Sandy

Sandy is an English name functioning both as an independent given name and as a diminutive of Alexander or Alexandra, which derive from the ancient Greek Alexandros, composed of the elements alexein, meaning to defend, and aner, meaning man. The name gained widespread use as an independent given name, particularly in Scotland, where Sandy has long been a familiar short form of Alexander. Its use spread further through English-speaking cultures during the twentieth century, enjoying particular popularity as a feminine name in North America. Related forms include Sandra, Sandro, Alasdair, and Alec.