Meaning & History
Audra is an English feminine given name, a variant of Audrey that emerged in the 19th century. The name ultimately derives from the Anglo-Saxon Æðelþryð or Æthelthryth, meaning 'noble strength'.
Etymology and History
The name became associated with the medieval diminutive Audrey after Saint Æðelþryð, a 7th-century saint from East Anglia, whose monastery at Ely bolstered the name's popularity. However, during the Middle Ages, the name fell out of use due to its similarity to the word 'tawdry'—derived from 'St. Audrey's lace' sold at a fair. The name was revived in the 19th century, with Audra appearing as a variant spelling.
Notable Bearers
Audra's popularity soared in the United States following the debut of the television series The Big Valley (1965–1969), which featured the character Audra Barkley. Famously portrayed by British actress Audrey Hepburn (1929–1993), the name also gained literary recognition through William Shakespeare's comedy As You Like It (1599), where a character named Audrey appears.
Cultural Context
Unlike its parent name Audrey, which remained in consistent use, Audra saw a distinct peak in the mid-20th century. Related forms in other languages include Edeltraud and Edeltraut (German), both retaining the 'noble' element, alongside the variant Audrea and diminutive Audie.
- Meaning: 'Noble strength'
- Origin: English variant of Audrey, from Anglo-Saxon Æðelþryð
- Usage: Primarily English
- Modern Relevance: Popularized by the character Audra Barkley on The Big Valley