Andréia is a Brazilian Portuguese form of Andreia, itself a Portuguese feminine derivative of Andrew. The name Andrew comes from the Greek Andreas, which in turn derives from andreios meaning "manly" or "masculine," rooted in aner ("man"). This etymological chain connects Andréia to a long-standing tradition of masculine-themed names adapted into feminine forms.EtymologyThe foundation of Andréia lies in the Greek name Andreas, associated with Saint Andrew, the apostle and brother of Simon Peter. Christian tradition holds that Andrew was martyred on an X-shaped cross, a symbol that became his attribute. While the name was likely not his original Hebrew name but a Greek translation or nickname, it spread widely through the Christian world, especially during the Middle Ages.Cultural and Regional UsageAndréia is specifically a Brazilian Portuguese variant, with alternative forms including Andréa (also common in Brazil) and the more elaborate feminine diminutives Andressa and Andreza. The variation in spelling reflects Portuguese naming conventions adapting the name for a feminine sound. The name is virtually unused outside Portuguese-speaking regions, giving it a distinct Brazilian cultural identity.Notable BearersSeveral Brazilian women named Andréia have achieved prominence in sports. Footballer Andréia Suntaque (born 1977) represented Brazil as a goalkeeper, winning silver in the Olympics and a silver medal at the World Cup. Defenders Andréia Rosa (born 1984) and Andréia dos Santos also played at the highest level for the Brazilian women's national team. In boxing, Andreia Bandeira (born 1987) competed internationally, earning medals at tournaments like the Pan American Games. In the arts, Andréia Horta (born 1983) is a television actress known for telenovelas, while the late singer and composer Andréia de Olicar (1976–2020) left a mark on Brazilian music. Other athletes include volleyball players Andréia Laurence (1983) and Andreia Marras (1971).Portuguese athletes bearing the name include footballers Andreia Faria, Andreia Jacinto, and Andreia Norton, all active in the 21st century. Andréia (or Andreia) thus appears primarily in Brazilian and Portuguese sports, though a few Macedonian fictional characters share the name Andréia Bijou.Key FactsMeaning: "manly, masculine" (feminine form)Origin: Portuguese (Brazilian) adaptation of Greek AndreasType: Feminine given nameVariants: Andressa, Andreza, AndréaUsage regions: Brazil, Portugal