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      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Ethelred

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      Noble counsel

      Variations

      Thelred, Ethelda, Aethelric
      The origin of the name Ethelred can be traced back to Old English, where it derived from two distinct elements: thel, meaning noble, and rd, meaning counsel. Combined, Ethelred signifies noble counsel or noble advice. This name was bestowed upon individuals as a way to convey their distinguished status and wise judgment.

      In history, Ethelred has been notably associated with several prominent figures. One such notable bearer was Ethelred the Unready, an Anglo-Saxon king who reigned over England from 978 to 1013 and again from 1014 to 1016. Despite his reign being marred by several conflicts, Ethelred the Unready's name has endured throughout time, serving as a reminder of his position of noble counsel and leadership.

      In modern times, the usage of the name Ethelred has become comparatively scarce. Its Old English origin and historical associations have rendered it less common in contemporary society. However, some individuals still choose to name their children Ethelred, often motivated by a desire to honor their heritage or to evoke a sense of wisdom and nobility. As such, while the name Ethelred may not enjoy widespread usage today, it remains an intriguing and distinguished choice that harkens back to an earlier era.

      Based on our records...

      Ellis

      Ellis

      This is the most common surname associated with Ethelred.
      Sarah

      Sarah

      This is the most common name of those married to a Ethelred.
      Sarah

      Sarah

      This is the most common name for a child of a Ethelred.
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      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1744 is when there were the most people born with the first name Ethelred.

      Explore the origins of another name.