Holding steady, #5,608 for boys today.
Popularity of Dre since 1989
Babies named Dre per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 228 |
| 2000s | 190 |
| 2010s | 272 |
| 2020s | 160 |
Meaning & origin
Dre is a modern clipped form of Andrew, a name of Greek origin meaning 'manly'. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1989 and reached its peak popularity in 1993, likely influenced by the prominent hip-hop producer Dr. Dre. In 2025, the name ranked 5,608th, with approximately 1 in every 106,755 male infants receiving the name. Despite its origins as a nickname, Dre has functioned as an independent given name, particularly in the decades following its introduction. The trajectory of its usage has been relatively stable, with no dramatic resurgence. Its appeal lies in its short, strong sound and cultural associations with music and urban style.
Dre originated as a clipped form of Andrew, itself from the Greek 'Andreas', derived from 'aner' meaning man. Andrew was borne by one of the twelve apostles, giving the name a long history in Christian cultures. Dre emerged in the late 20th century, influenced by the hip-hop artist Dr. Dre, and is used primarily as a standalone given name in African American communities and beyond.
Sibling names for Dre
Names that share Dre's style, for a brother or sister.
