Find out how popular the first name Eldred has been for the last 39 years (from 1974 to 2012) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Eldred by gender

Based on the last 39 years of data, Eldred is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2012, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Eldred.

The history of the first name Eldred

The given name Eldred originates from the Old English language, derived from the elements "eal" meaning "all" and "ræd" meaning "counsel" or "advice". It was a popular name among the Anglo-Saxons during the medieval period, particularly in regions of present-day England.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Eldred can be found in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, where it is mentioned as the name of a king of the East Angles who reigned in the late 7th century. Another notable historical figure bearing this name was Eldred, Archbishop of York, who held the prestigious position in the 11th century.

In the 12th century, Eldred was the name of a prominent English religious figure, Eldred of Rivaulx, who served as the abbot of the Cistercian monastery of Rievaulx Abbey in Yorkshire. His writings and teachings had a significant influence on the spiritual and intellectual life of the time.

Moving forward to the 13th century, Eldred was the name of a well-known English scholar and mathematician, Eldred of Waltham. He is credited with contributing to the development of astronomical tables and calculations, which were essential for navigation and timekeeping during that era.

In the realm of literature, one cannot overlook the character of Eldred Wordsly, a recurring figure in the novels of English writer P.G. Wodehouse. Although a fictional character, Eldred Wordsly became a beloved and memorable persona in Wodehouse's stories, often portrayed as a pompous and eccentric individual.

Other notable individuals who bore the name Eldred throughout history include Eldred Pottinger (1811-1843), a British officer and explorer in the service of the East India Company, and Eldred Gregory Peck (1916-2003), an American actor renowned for his performances in films like "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Omen".

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Eldred was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Eldred, please contact us.

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