Andreu is a common Catalan given name of Ancient Greek origin, also used as a surname in Catalan, Spanish (Castilian), German, and southern French contexts. It is the Catalan form of Andrew, derived etymologically from the Greek word andros, the genitive of aner meaning "man," and thus carries the meaning "manly," "strong," "courageous," or "warrior."Etymology and HistoryThe name ultimately traces back to the Greek Andreas, which comes from andreios ("manly, masculine"), a derivative of aner ("man"). In the New Testament, Andrew is the first disciple to join Jesus and the brother of Simon Peter. According to tradition, he preached in the Black Sea region and was crucified on an X-shaped cross. The name spread throughout the Christian world and became very popular in the Middle Ages, with various forms emerging in different languages. Saint Andrew is regarded as the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, Greece, and Romania.Notable BearersNotable people with the given name Andreu include: Andreu Blanes (born 1991), Spanish orienteering competitor; Andreu Buenafuente (born 1965), Spanish late-night show host; Andreu Canals (born 1973), Spanish rower; Andreu Febrer (1375–1440), Spanish poet and diplomat; Andreu Fontàs (born 1989), Catalan football player; and Andreu Guerao, among others.Cultural SignificanceIn Catalan-speaking regions, Andreu is a traditional name that reflects the region's Christian heritage and linguistic ties to Latin and Greek. It is also found as a surname, often indicating patrilineal descent. The name's variants across Europe include Andreas (Welsh), Ander (Basque), Andrei (Russian), and Andre (English).Meaning: Manly, strong, courageousOrigin: Greek, via CatalanType: Given name and surnameUsage Regions: Catalonia, Spain, Germany, southern France