Aubry is a unique and distinctive given name of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "albre," which means "elf" or "fairy." The name Aubry has been used historically as both a masculine and feminine name, although it is more commonly associated with males today.
The earliest recorded use of the name Aubry dates back to the 12th century in France. It was likely brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Throughout the Middle Ages, Aubry was a popular name among the nobility and gentry in both France and England.
The name Aubry has several notable historical figures associated with it. One of the most famous is Aubrey Beardsley (1872-1898), an English author and illustrator known for his black-and-white drawings and erotic art. Another notable figure is Aubrey de Vere, a 14th-century English poet who served as the tutor to Richard II.
In literature, the name Aubry appears in several works. In Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre," one of the characters is named Adèle Varens, whose father is said to be an "Aubrey" with whom she has lost contact. Additionally, there is a character named Aubrey in Thomas Hardy's novel "The Mayor of Casterbridge."
Today, Aubry remains a relatively uncommon name outside of France but continues to be popular among French-speaking families. It is often used as a middle name or given name for boys and girls alike. The name Aubry carries with it a sense of uniqueness and historical significance, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
In conclusion, Aubry is a unique and historically significant name of French origin that has been used throughout the centuries. While its meaning may vary depending on cultural context, it remains a distinctive and charming option for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Aubry experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the course of a century. It began with a steady increase from 6 births in 1904 to a peak of 38 births in 1921. However, this trend reversed sharply afterwards, declining to just 5 births in 2019 and 2020, and reaching another low of 5 births in 2023. The total number of births with the name Aubry over this period was 1612.