Allistair

Allistair is a masculine given name. It is a variant spelling of Alistair, which is the Scottish form of Alexander, deriving from the Greek name Alexandros, meaning defender of men. The variant Allistair preserves the same etymological roots while reflecting orthographic variation common in English naming.

Usage and distribution: The name is most commonly found in Scotland and among people of Scottish heritage, though it appears in other English-speaking countries as well. Spelling variants include Alistair, Alasdair, Alastair, and Allistair. Pronunciation varies by region, but the name generally centers on the first syllable with a second syllable resembling “stair” or “stare.” The form Allistair has been used in literature and modern naming alike to convey a connection to Scottish heritage or a distinctive personal spelling.

Cultural context: As with many Scottish forms of Alexander, Allistair has been adopted by families seeking a link to Scottish roots or a unique variant. In contemporary usage, the spelling Allistair is less common than Alistair or Alasdair, but it appears in personal names and fictional works where authors or parents choose a distinctive form to set a character or identity apart.

Notable people: The spelling Allistair is relatively uncommon among widely known public figures. It is more often encountered as a given name in local communities or in fictional contexts, rather than as the name of prominent historical or contemporary individuals.