Aubrey is a given name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. The name is derived from the Germanic elements "álr" meaning "all," and "beorht" meaning "bright." Therefore, Aubrey translates to "noble and bright." Despite its feminine sound, Aubrey was originally used as a boy's name due to its association with Old French variants like Albéric.
The use of Aubrey as a given name can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England. It was typically bestowed upon boys during this period and was often found among the Norman nobility. Some notable historical figures bearing this name include Sir Aubrey de Vere, who served as Chamberlain to King Henry III, and Aubrey Beardsley, an English illustrator known for his distinctive black-and-white drawings.
In modern times, Aubrey has become increasingly popular as a girl's name due to its appealing sound and the growing trend of unisex names. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Aubrey first appeared in the top 1000 names for girls in 1987 and has since risen steadily in popularity. It reached its peak position at number 245 in 2009 before declining slightly but remaining popular nonetheless.
Overall, Aubrey is an attractive and distinctive name with a rich history that spans centuries and transcends gender boundaries. Its meaning, "noble and bright," makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a strong yet elegant name for their child.
The name Aubrey has been a part of the American naming landscape for over a century, with its popularity fluctuating over time. From 1880 to 1965, there were periods where it was quite uncommon, with fewer than 20 births per year. However, from the late 19th century onwards, Aubrey started to gain traction.
In the early 20th century, Aubrey's popularity began to rise significantly. Between 1904 and 1914, there was a steady increase in the number of babies named Aubrey, peaking at 394 births in 1915. This trend continued through the 1920s and 1930s, with Aubrey remaining a popular choice among American parents.
After World War II, Aubrey's popularity started to decline again. Between 1946 and 1965, there were fewer than 300 births per year for the name Aubrey. However, this does not mean that Aubrey disappeared from the scene entirely. It remained a steady presence in American naming trends.
In recent years, Aubrey has seen a resurgence in popularity. After dropping to its lowest point in modern times (135 births) in 2014, it began climbing again. In 2022, there were 135 births with the name Aubrey, and it continues to be chosen by American parents today.
Overall, Aubrey's popularity has had its peaks and valleys over the past century and a half. Despite periods of decline, Aubrey has consistently remained a choice among American parents, reflecting its enduring appeal as a distinctive yet classic name option.