Sander sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Alexander, Xander, and Sandro are the closest matches by sound. Most share Sander's Dutch-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"defender of the people, protector of men"
"daylight, daytime"
"surname-derived given name"
"powerful ruler, brave power"
"herald, messenger"
"eagle, nobleman"
"laughter (as a gift from God)"
"gift of God"
"wise counsel and army, counseling warrior"
"fire brand, flaming sword"
"counsel warrior"
"resolute protector"
"one who burns, charcoal burner, distiller"
"from the rose field"
"peace through daring"
"the greatest"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Sander — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Greek origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Sander.
Rhythm: Sander is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.