The Greek name Alexandros means "defender of men." Several men bear this name in the New Testament, including a son of Simon of Cyrene, a member of the high priestly family, a coppersmith, and possibly others.
The New Testament's Alexanders represent a spectrum: Simon of Cyrene's son Alexander (Mark 15:21) appears to have become known in the early church. Alexander the coppersmith "did a great deal of harm" to Paul (2 Timothy 4:14) — a reminder that opposition can come from unexpected quarters. Another Alexander, associated with the shipwreck of faith (1 Timothy 1:20), was handed over to Satan for discipline. The name "defender of men" is worn by men who both defended and attacked the gospel.