Drew
/ˈdɹuː/
Drew is a short form of Andrew, from the Greek Andreas, from aner (genitive andros) meaning “man” or “manly.” As a surname, Drew was given to families descended from someone named Andrew.
The name has been used as an independent given name since at least the 19th century. In the 20th century it became increasingly common as a standalone name rather than just a nickname.
Drew peaked at No. 126 in 1985 with 2,276 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 542 with 550 births, well past its peak but still in consistent use.
What the name Drew means
Actress Drew Barrymore gave the name a strong association with both the masculine given-name tradition and the possibility of feminine use. Her fame contributed to Drew becoming genuinely gender-neutral.
One syllable—DROO—is clean and confident. The consonant cluster and long vowel give it a crisp, assertive quality. It ages well across childhood and adulthood.
As a standalone masculine name, Drew occupies the same register as Brett, Craig, and Kent—compact, no-nonsense, single-syllable classics of the 1970s and 1980s.
Parents choosing Drew today often prefer it to Andrew, finding the full form feels longer than necessary for everyday use and the short form entirely sufficient on a birth certificate.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Drew
Drew - similar names
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