Audrey is a feminine given name of English origin that has been gaining popularity in recent years. The name is derived from the Old English elements "æð" meaning "noble" or "dark" and "rīc" meaning "power". Thus, Audrey translates to "noble strength".
The name Audrey first came into use during the Middle Ages in England, where it was often used as a diminutive form of names such as Aelfthryth and Ealdgyth. Over time, Audrey evolved into an independent given name in its own right.
Some notable individuals with the name Audrey include French actress Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993), known for her iconic roles in films like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "Roman Holiday", as well as American singer-songwriter Audrey Aimee Lee, professionally known as Aubrey Peeples. These individuals have helped to popularize the name Audrey further, contributing to its increasing usage today.
Despite its English origins, Audrey has been adopted by various cultures around the world and is now used in countries such as France, Canada, Australia, and the United States. Its meaning of "noble strength" makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that conveys power and elegance.
The name Audrie has seen a significant increase in popularity over the years, with a total of 4,037 babies being named Audrie since 1902. While it started off with a steady but low number of births each year (ranging from 6 to 22 births per year between 1902 and 1958), the popularity of the name began to rise significantly in the late 1970s.
In 1975, there were 23 births with the name Audrie, marking a significant increase from previous years. This trend continued throughout the 1980s, with the number of births reaching an all-time high of 143 in 2011. However, since then, the popularity of the name has started to decline once again, with only 39 babies being named Audrie in 2023.
Despite this recent decrease in popularity, it is clear that the name Audrie has had a steady presence in the United States over the past century. With over 4,000 babies named Audrie since its first appearance in the early 1900s, it remains a recognizable and well-liked name choice for parents.