Aubrey is a charming and unique name of English origin. It is derived from the Old French word "Albéric," which was adapted from the German name "Adalbert." The name consists of two elements: "adal," meaning noble, and "berht," meaning bright or famous.
The name Aubrey has been used in English-speaking countries for centuries. It was popular among medieval nobility and was often bestowed upon heirs to signify their high status and brightness. In the 16th century, it began to be used as a given name rather than solely as a surname.
One of the earliest known records of the name Aubrey is from the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as "Albreccus." Throughout history, many notable figures have borne this name, including Aubrey Beardsley, an English author and illustrator of the late 19th century, and Aubrey de Vere, a medieval poet and nobleman.
Today, Aubrey is still considered a distinctive and elegant name. It has gained popularity in recent years due to its unisex appeal – while traditionally more common for boys, it has also been used as a girl's name since the late 20th century. Its meaning and history continue to make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique yet classic name for their child.
In conclusion, Aubrey is a captivating name with roots in Old French and German languages. It has a rich history and meaningful origin, making it a beautiful option for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
"The name Awbrey saw a resurgence with 7 births in 2015 after a decline to just 5 births in 2010."