Andreou Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Andreou (Ανδρέου) is a patronymic name, meaning it is derived from the given name of a male ancestor. The root Andrei- comes from the first name Andreas (Ανδρέας), which originates from the Ancient Greek word anḗr (ἀνήρ), meaning “man” or “male,” and carries connotations of bravery and masculinity. The name Andreas became widespread in Greece through early Christian tradition, particularly due to the veneration of Saint Andrew the Apostle. The suffix -ou is a genitive marker indicating descent or belonging, meaning “of” or “descendant of.” Consequently, the surname Andreou signifies “the descendant of Andreas” or, more literally, “of the manly one.”