Eldred Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationEL-dred / ˈɛl.drɛdOld English; Germanic
Meaning
Old English: noble counsel; Germanic: brave advisor
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Eldred has its roots in Old English, deriving from the elements "æld" meaning "old" or "wise" and "ræd" meaning "counsel" or "advice." This etymology suggests a literal meaning of "old counsel" or "wise advisor." The name was recorded in various forms throughout the centuries, including as "Eldredus" in Latin texts, which reflects its transition from Old English into Latinized forms used in ecclesiastical contexts. The name entered the English vernacular during the early medieval period, becoming more prominent in the Anglo-Saxon era, particularly from the 7th century onward.
Historically, the name Eldred is associated with several notable figures. One of the earliest recorded bearers was Eldred, a 10th-century Anglo-Saxon nobleman, who is mentioned in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. Additionally, the name appears in various charters and legal documents from the period, underscoring its use among the nobility. The name also appears in the context of the church, with several saints and clerics bearing the name, contributing to its historical significance within Christian communities.
Culturally, Eldred has been linked to themes of wisdom and leadership, reflecting the qualities associated with its etymological roots. The name has been used in literature and historical texts, often symbolizing a figure of authority or guidance. Its diminutive form, Eld, has also been noted in some contexts, though less frequently. The enduring nature of the name can be attributed to its strong associations with wisdom and counsel, qualities that have been revered throughout history.
Similar Names
Variants
- Eldredde
International Variants
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Famous people named Eldred
Eldred Gregory L. Smith is an artist best known for his work in the field of fine arts and his contributions to the African American art community.
Fictional characters named Eldred
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Eldred was first seen in the United States in 1882. Eldred has ranked as high as #762 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Texas, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Eldred has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Eldred (1970)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
FL | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1882 | 5 |
1883 | 7 |
1889 | 6 |
1892 | 8 |
1894 | 5 |
1895 | 7 |
1896 | 9 |
1898 | 9 |
1901 | 5 |
1902 | 14 |
1904 | 9 |
1905 | 14 |
1907 | 8 |
1908 | 9 |
1909 | 13 |
1910 | 17 |
1911 | 22 |
1912 | 44 |
1913 | 62 |
1914 | 81 |
1915 | 102 |
1916 | 84 |
1917 | 120 |
1918 | 98 |
1919 | 92 |
1920 | 118 |
1921 | 122 |
1922 | 94 |
1923 | 118 |
1924 | 102 |
1925 | 102 |
1926 | 93 |
1927 | 95 |
1928 | 94 |
1929 | 90 |
1930 | 81 |
1931 | 80 |
1932 | 70 |
1933 | 58 |
1934 | 57 |
1935 | 56 |
1936 | 33 |
1937 | 53 |
1938 | 49 |
1939 | 60 |
1940 | 39 |
1941 | 51 |
1942 | 44 |
1943 | 26 |
1944 | 28 |
1945 | 29 |
1946 | 32 |
1947 | 37 |
1948 | 31 |
1949 | 25 |
1950 | 30 |
1951 | 30 |
1952 | 33 |
1953 | 34 |
1954 | 27 |
1955 | 28 |
1956 | 38 |
1957 | 49 |
1958 | 26 |
1959 | 36 |
1960 | 20 |
1961 | 31 |
1962 | 27 |
1963 | 27 |
1964 | 18 |
1965 | 22 |
1966 | 27 |
1967 | 30 |
1968 | 26 |
1969 | 22 |
1970 | 30 |
1971 | 19 |
1972 | 15 |
1973 | 16 |
1974 | 11 |
1975 | 20 |
1976 | 6 |
1977 | 11 |
1978 | 13 |
1979 | 10 |
1980 | 13 |
1981 | 14 |
1982 | 9 |
1983 | 12 |
1984 | 12 |
1985 | 10 |
1986 | 7 |
1987 | 11 |
1988 | 7 |
1989 | 10 |
1990 | 12 |
1991 | 6 |
1992 | 11 |
1993 | 10 |
1994 | 6 |
1995 | 5 |
1996 | 5 |
1998 | 7 |
2000 | 9 |
2001 | 6 |
2006 | 9 |
2012 | 6 |