Choosing a name for your baby can be a challenging task, especially when you consider societal expectations and gender norms. One name that often comes up in discussions surrounding gender-neutral or unisex names is Drew. But is Drew a male, female, or unisex name? In this article, we’ll explore the history, popularity, and meaning behind the name Drew, as well as its representation in popular culture and the future of unisex names in society.
The History of the Name Drew and Its Origins
The name Drew has a long and interesting history, with sources indicating its roots can be traced back to ancient Greece. The name is commonly believed to be a shortened form of the Greek name Andrew, which means “manly” or “warrior.” It later became a surname in England during the Middle Ages, and eventually evolved into a first name in the 19th century.
Interestingly, the name Drew has also been used as a nickname for people with the surname Andrew or Andreas in Scotland and Ireland. In these countries, the name Drew is often associated with the patron saint of Scotland, Saint Andrew, who was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus.
Today, the name Drew remains a popular choice for both boys and girls, and has been used by many famous individuals throughout history, including Drew Barrymore, Drew Brees, and Drew Carey. Its versatility and strong historical roots make it a timeless and enduring name.
The Popularity of the Name Drew Over Time
Since becoming a first name, Drew’s popularity has fluctuated over time. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Drew first appeared on the top 1000 list of most popular names in the United States in 1939. Its popularity peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s, ranking as high as #126 in 2000. However, its popularity has since declined, ranking at #265 in 2021.
Interestingly, the popularity of the name Drew varies by region. In some states, such as California and Texas, Drew consistently ranks in the top 200 names for boys. However, in other states, such as New York and Illinois, it falls outside of the top 300 names. Additionally, the name Drew has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral name in recent years, with more parents choosing it for their daughters as well as their sons.
The Meaning Behind the Name Drew
As mentioned, Drew is commonly believed to be a shortened form of the name Andrew, which means “manly” or “warrior.” It can also be considered a form of the Welsh name Drystan, which means “riot” or “tumult.” However, the meaning behind the name Drew has evolved and expanded over time, with some interpreting it as meaning “wise,” “strong,” or “beloved.”
In addition to these meanings, the name Drew has also been associated with creativity and artistic expression. Many individuals with the name Drew have pursued careers in the arts, such as acting, music, and writing. This may be due to the name’s association with imagination and originality.
Furthermore, the name Drew has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly as a gender-neutral name. This reflects a shift towards more inclusive and diverse naming practices, as well as a rejection of traditional gender norms. As such, the meaning behind the name Drew continues to evolve and adapt to changing cultural attitudes and values.
Gendered Names and Societal Expectations
Gendered names have long been used to reinforce societal expectations and norms surrounding gender. For example, names like John or William are typically associated with boys, while names like Mary or Elizabeth are typically associated with girls. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards using gender-neutral or unisex names, such as Drew.
This shift towards gender-neutral names reflects a broader societal movement towards breaking down traditional gender roles and expectations. By choosing a gender-neutral name for their child, parents are signaling a rejection of the idea that a person’s name should dictate their gender identity or behavior. Additionally, gender-neutral names can help to reduce the likelihood of gender-based discrimination in areas such as employment or education, where a person’s name may be used as a basis for bias.
Drew as a Unisex Name: Examples and Statistics
While Drew is traditionally considered a male name, it has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral or unisex name in recent years. According to BabyCenter’s “Gender-Neutral Names: What’s Hot” list for 2021, Drew ranks as the 32nd most popular unisex name. Additionally, numerous celebrities have named their children Drew, including model Karlie Kloss and musician Teyana Taylor.
One reason for the rise in popularity of Drew as a unisex name could be its versatility. It can be short for Andrew or Andrea, or simply stand alone as a name. This flexibility allows parents to choose a name that is not tied to a specific gender, while still maintaining a classic feel.
Another interesting fact about the name Drew is that it has been used as a surname for centuries. In fact, the famous American actor Drew Barrymore comes from a long line of actors, including her grandfather John Barrymore and great-grandfather Maurice Barrymore, who both used Barrymore as their stage name.
Factors Influencing Parents to Choose Drew as a Name for Their Child
There are numerous factors that may influence parents to choose Drew as a name for their child. One common reason is the desire for a gender-neutral or unisex name that does not reinforce traditional gender norms. Additionally, some parents simply find the name Drew to be attractive or meaningful, regardless of its gender connotations.
Another factor that may influence parents to choose Drew as a name for their child is its association with successful individuals. Drew Barrymore, Drew Brees, and Drew Carey are just a few examples of well-known figures with the name Drew. This association with success and achievement may make the name more appealing to parents who want to give their child a name that is both unique and inspiring.
Drew in Popular Culture: Celebrities and Fictional Characters with the Name
As mentioned, numerous celebrities have named their children Drew, including actor Casey Affleck and singer Ciara. The name is also a popular choice for fictional characters, such as Drew Barrymore’s character in the blockbuster film E.T. Additionally, Drew has been used as a surname for fictional characters, including detective Nancy Drew and Pokémon trainer May from the Pokémon video game series.
Another famous celebrity with the name Drew is Drew Brees, a retired American football quarterback who played for the New Orleans Saints. He is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history and has won numerous awards throughout his career.
In literature, Drew has been used as a character name in several popular books, including “The Drew Field Diaries” by Albert J. Bowker and “Drew and the Homeboy Question” by Jean Alicia Elster. These books explore different themes and topics, but both feature a character named Drew as the protagonist.
How to Choose a Gender-Neutral Baby Name
Choosing a gender-neutral or unisex name can be a great option for parents looking to avoid traditional gender roles and expectations. When considering potential names, it’s important to think about the meaning and origins of the name, as well as its potential cultural associations and popularity. It’s also a good idea to research common gender-neutral names and consider how they may sound with your last name.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a gender-neutral name is how it may be perceived by others. While you may be comfortable with a name that challenges traditional gender norms, your child may face confusion or discrimination from others who are not familiar with the name. It’s important to have open and honest conversations with your child about their name and how they may choose to identify with it. Additionally, consider choosing a name that is easy to pronounce and spell, as this can make a big difference in your child’s daily life.
The Future of Unisex Names in Society
The future of unisex names in society is uncertain, but it’s clear that the trend towards gender-neutral names is likely to continue. As societal norms surrounding gender continue to evolve and expand, it’s likely that more parents will choose unisex or gender-neutral names for their children. Whether Drew will continue to be a popular choice for parents remains to be seen, but its history, meaning, and representation in popular culture ensure that it will remain a noteworthy name for years to come.
One factor that may contribute to the continued popularity of unisex names is the increasing acceptance and visibility of non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. As more people identify outside of the traditional binary gender categories, the use of gender-neutral names may become more common and normalized.
However, there may also be pushback against the use of unisex names, particularly in more conservative or traditional communities. Some may view the use of these names as a rejection of traditional gender roles and values, and may resist the trend towards gender-neutral naming practices.