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Drew Unisex

Popularity: #473 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationdroo / /druː/

English; Scottish

Meaning

English: brave; Scottish: manly

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Drew is derived from the Old French name "Dreux," which itself originates from the Latin name "Druis," meaning "oak tree." This etymological lineage can be traced back to the Proto-Celtic word "dru-," which also signifies an oak. The name entered the English language during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, when many Old French names were adopted into English vernacular. As a result, Drew became established as a given name in England, particularly in the context of the Anglo-Norman nobility.

Historically, the name Drew has been associated with several notable figures. One significant milestone is the use of Drew as a surname, which can be traced back to medieval England, where it was often used to denote individuals from places named Dreux in France. The name was also borne by various saints, including Saint Andrew, whose name in Greek is "Andreas," meaning "manly" or "brave." The influence of Christianity in the Middle Ages helped to popularize names like Drew, particularly in relation to the veneration of saints and biblical figures.

Culturally, the name Drew has resonated through various traditions and literary works. It has been used in English literature and poetry, often symbolizing strength and resilience, akin to the oak tree from which it derives its meaning. The name has also been associated with nobility and leadership, reflecting the qualities attributed to oak trees in various cultures. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Drewie have appeared in historical contexts, although Drew remains the most recognized form. Overall, the name Drew carries with it a rich tapestry of linguistic roots and historical significance that has contributed to its enduring presence in the English-speaking world.

Trend Summary

Drew has seen a steady popularity in the United States, particularly in the late 20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Dru

International Variants

  • André (French)
  • Andreas (German)
  • Andrei (Russian)

Famous people named Drew

Drew Barrymore is an actress and producer best known for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Wedding Singer, and Charlie's Angels.

Drew Brees is a former American football quarterback best known for his time with the New Orleans Saints and winning Super Bowl XLIV.

Drew Carey is a comedian and actor best known for The Drew Carey Show and hosting The Price Is Right.

Drew Pomeranz is a professional baseball pitcher best known for playing with the San Diego Padres and Boston Red Sox.

Drew Rosenhaus is a sports agent best known for representing numerous NFL players.

Fictional characters named Drew

Drew is a fictional character from the animated series The Magic School Bus. He is a student in Ms. Frizzle's class who often participates in the adventurous field trips.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Drew was first seen in the United States in 1880. Drew has ranked as high as #249 nationally, which occurred in 1985, and has been most popular in California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Drew has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Drew (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 57
12%
CA 51
10%
LA 24
5%
UT 22
4%
IL 20
4%
OH 20
4%
MI 20
4%
MN 19
4%
IN 19
4%
NY 17
3%
MA 17
3%
FL 16
3%
WA 16
3%
NC 14
3%
AZ 13
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18806
18818
188211
188311
18848
188612
188810
18895
18905
18926
18935
18946
18955
18965
18976
19008
19048
19056
19066
19078
19095
191014
19117
191213
191321
191419
191526
191626
191726
191820
191926
192027
192123
192233
192322
192421
192521
192625
192724
192823
192922
193039
193130
193231
193330
193419
193525
193629
193720
193836
193944
194049
194148
194255
194374
194472
194588
1946234
1947213
1948185
1949206
1950202
1951195
1952214
1953213
1954260
1955260
1956486
1957470
1958440
1959540
1960553
1961569
1962438
1963421
1964418
1965409
1966430
1967373
1968400
1969374
1970403
1971314
1972322
1973303
1974377
1975376
1976418
1977484
1978547
1979625
1980720
1981917
19821,012
19831,376
19841,765
19852,276
19862,000
19871,759
19881,754
19892,012
19901,954
19911,804
19921,779
19931,854
19941,856
19952,180
19962,100
19971,994
19981,803
19992,009
20001,948
20011,565
20021,575
20031,572
20041,667
20051,950
20061,860
20071,831
20081,479
20091,263
20101,414
20111,232
20121,239
20131,179
20141,062
2015896
2016800
2017675
2018630
2019552
2020537
2021578
2022568
2023549
2024550