The name Lisander is of Greek origin and has a rich history behind it. It comes from the Greek word "Lysandros," which means "liberator" or "free man." This name was popularized by Lysander, a famous Spartan general who played a crucial role in the Peloponnesian War against Athens.
The name Lisander has been used throughout history and has been associated with notable figures. One of the most prominent is Lysander from Plato's dialogue "Laches," where he participates in the discussion on courage alongside Socrates, Nicias, and Laches themselves. This character is believed to have been modeled after the historical Lysander.
In literature, Lisander appears as a character in Shakespeare's comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Here, Lisander is one of the lovers whose affections are manipulated by the fairies Puck and Oberon, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings.
Despite its historical significance and literary appearances, Lisander remains a relatively uncommon name today. However, it continues to be associated with intelligence, leadership, and freedom due to its origins and the historical figures who bore this name. For those who choose to bear this name or give it to their children, they may find comfort in knowing that they are connected to a rich history of liberators, philosophers, and literary heroes.
Statistics on the name Lisander in the United States from 2008 to 2010 show that it was given to a total of 19 babies over those three years. The name's popularity fluctuated slightly during this period, with 5 births in both 2008 and 2010, while it peaked at 9 births in the year 2009. Despite these fluctuations, Lisander remains a relatively uncommon name, with fewer than 20 babies sharing it in any given year. This rarity may contribute to its unique appeal for parents seeking distinctive names for their children.