HOME > Is Aubrey a Boy Name?
What Does the Name Aubrey Mean?
Before deciding whether Aubrey is a suitable name for a boy, it's important to understand its origins and meaning. Aubrey is a name of French and Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'alb' meaning 'elf' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler'. The name was originally used as a surname, but became popular as a given name in the 19th century. It was traditionally a male name, but has since become more commonly used for girls.
Aubrey as a Gender-Neutral Name
In recent years, there has been a trend towards gender-neutral names, with many parents opting for names that are not traditionally associated with a specific gender. Aubrey is one such name, and is often used for both boys and girls. According to the Social Security Administration, Aubrey was the 20th most popular name for girls in 2020, but also ranked in the top 1000 names for boys.
Popularity of Aubrey as a Boy Name
While Aubrey is more commonly used for girls, it is still a viable option for boys. In 2020, Aubrey was the 971st most popular name for boys in the United States, with 186 baby boys given the name. This may be a relatively small number compared to the 5,000+ baby girls named Aubrey in the same year, but it shows that the name is still being used for boys.
Famous Men Named Aubrey
One way to gauge whether a name is suitable for a boy is to look at famous men who share the name. In the case of Aubrey, there are several notable men who bear the name. One of the most famous is Aubrey Drake Graham, better known as Drake, the Canadian rapper and singer. Other notable men named Aubrey include Aubrey Beardsley, the English illustrator, and Aubrey de Grey, the British gerontologist and biomedical theorist.
Choosing a Name for Your Child
Ultimately, the decision of whether to name your son Aubrey is a personal one. While the name may be more commonly associated with girls, it is still a valid option for boys. When choosing a name for your child, it's important to consider factors such as the name's meaning, popularity, and cultural significance. It's also worth considering whether the name is likely to be mispronounced or misspelled, and whether it will age well over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aubrey is a name of French and Germanic origin that has traditionally been used as a male name. However, in recent years it has become more commonly associated with girls, and is often used as a gender-neutral name. While it may not be the most popular choice for boys, it is still a viable option for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their son.
