Aubrey: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced AWB-ree · 2 syllables
Aubrey means “elf ruler”, from French and Germanic.
From Middle English Aubrey, Aubry, from Norman Auberi, Alberi, from Latin Albericus, Latinized form of Old High German Alberich, from Proto-Germanic *Albiriks, from *albiz (“elf, fairy”) + *riks (“king, ruler”). Possibly influenced by Gaulish Albiorix (literally "ruler of the world"). Cognates include German Alberich and Italian Alberico.
- Meaning
- elf ruler
- Origin
- French, Germanic
- Pronunciation
- AWB-ree
- US rank (2025)
- #146
- US babies a year
- about 3,224 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2010
- Style
- Classic
How popular is Aubrey?
Aubrey was the #146 name in the US in 2025, given to 2,073 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 65% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #146 |
| England & Wales | #238 |
| Scotland | #293 |
| Canada | #196 |
| Australia | #115 |
How old are people named Aubrey?
Half of US adults named Aubrey are older than 28; most are between 18 and 73. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Aubrey
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
- The most popular gender-neutral names in the US
- Classic gender-neutral names
- French gender-neutral names
Questions about Aubrey
What does the name Aubrey mean?
Aubrey means “elf ruler”. It comes from French and Germanic.
How do you pronounce Aubrey?
Aubrey is pronounced AWB-ree.
How popular is the name Aubrey?
Aubrey was the #146 name in the US in 2025, given to 2,073 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 65% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
How old are people named Aubrey?
Half of US adults named Aubrey are older than 28. Most are between 18 and 73.