Meaning & History
Aubrey is a unisex English name, originally of French and Germanic origin. It derives from Auberi, an Old French form of Alberich, which was brought to England by the Normans. The name Alberich combines the Germanic elements alb ("elf") and ric ("power" or "ruler"), giving the meaning "elf ruler."
Etymology and Historical Usage
In the Middle Ages, Aubrey was common for both men and women. Before the Norman Conquest, the Anglo-Saxons used the native form Ælfric, which has the same elements. After the conquest, the Norman French form Aubry became prevalent. The name lost favor over time but experienced a revival for men in the 19th century.
Notable Bearers
Historically, notable bearers include Sir Aubrey de Vere (12th century), a Norman nobleman, and Aubrey Beardsley (1872–1898), an influential English illustrator and author associated with the Aesthetic and Decadent movements. More recently, the poet Aubrey Thomas de Vere (1814–1902) was an Irish writer. In modern times, athlete Aubrey Huff and actor Aubrey Plaza carry the name.
Gender Shift
Since the mid-1970s, Aubrey has increasingly been given to girls. This shift is largely attributed to the 1972 song "Aubrey" by the band Bread, which popularized the name. Additionally, its similarity to the established feminine name Audrey contributed to its adoption for girls. In 2023, Aubrey ranked as the 101st most popular girls' name in the United States, highlighting its modern feminine association.
- Meaning: Elf ruler
- Origin: Old French form of Germanic Alberich
- Type: Unisex given name (predominantly feminine today)
- Usage Region: Primarily English-speaking countries
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Aubrey