The name Audrey has its origins in the Germanic and Anglo-Saxon languages, derived from the Old English word "ead" meaning prosperous or fortunate. It was originally a masculine name before evolving into a feminine given name. The earliest recorded use of the name dates back to the 7th century.

In medieval times, Audrey was a popular name among the English aristocracy. One notable bearer was St. Audrey, also known as St. Etheldreda, an Anglo-Saxon princess who lived in the 7th century and founded the monastery of Ely in Cambridgeshire, England. Her name gained reverence and was adopted by many women during the Middle Ages.

During the Renaissance period, the name Audrey gained further popularity in England and France. One of the earliest recorded examples is Audrey Walsingham, an English courtier and spy who lived during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century.

In literature, the name Audrey appears in William Shakespeare's play "As You Like It," where it is given to a rustic character. This literary reference contributed to the name's enduring appeal and helped it maintain its usage over the centuries.

Notable historical figures named Audrey include Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993), the beloved British actress and fashion icon known for her roles in films such as "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "Roman Holiday." Another famous Audrey was Audrey Wood (1905-1995), an American aviator and aviation pioneer who set several records for long-distance flights in the 1930s and 1940s.

In the medieval period, Audrey of Brittany (1050-1115) was a Countess of Brittany and a prominent figure in the Norman conquest of England. Audrey Munson (1891-1996) was an American artist's model and actress who posed for numerous sculptures and monuments in the early 20th century.

Audrey Lorde (1934-1992) was an influential American writer, feminist, and civil rights activist whose works explored intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Her poetry and essays made significant contributions to the literary canon and social movements of her time.