The name Eldred is of English origin and has a rich history behind it. It is derived from the Old English words "æld" meaning old or elderly, and "hryð" which means protector or shield. Therefore, the name Eldred can be interpreted as "protector of the aged."
The name Eldred was popular in medieval England during the Middle Ages. It is believed to have been introduced by way of Normandy after the Norman Conquest in 1066. In fact, a Norman knight named Eldred de Bohun fought alongside William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings.
Over time, variations of the name Eldred began to appear, including Eldredus, Aldred, and Alred. These variants were also popular amongst the nobility during this period.
Today, Eldred is considered a somewhat rare but unique name for both boys and girls. It's often associated with historical figures and has a vintage charm that appeals to those looking for an unusual yet meaningful name choice.
In conclusion, Eldred is an ancient English name with a strong historical background. Its meaning as "protector of the aged" gives it depth and character, making it a great choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
The name Eldred has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 294 babies given this name between 1910 and 1947. The peak of its usage occurred in 1921, with an impressive 46 births recorded that year. However, it appears that Eldred was not as popular in the preceding or following years.
Interestingly, there were several years where the number of babies named Eldred remained steady or close to one another. For instance, between 1915 and 1918, the count varied between 9 and 11 births annually. Similarly, from 1930 to 1933, the number of Eldreds born each year was consistently between 5 and 9.
However, after the late 1940s, the popularity of the name Eldred seems to have significantly declined, with no recorded instances in subsequent years. This trend suggests that while Eldred may have been a popular choice among parents in earlier decades, it is less common today. Nevertheless, its unique sound and spelling make it an interesting option for those looking for a distinctive name for their child.