Alfred
Alfred is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
Meaning
Elf counsel or wise advisor.
Origin and history
Alfred is derived from Old English elements meaning elf and counsel. It was historically prominent due to King Alfred the Great and remained a classic name through the 19th and early 20th centuries. In the contemporary United States, it is recognized as a traditional, slightly vintage name that continues to see steady, moderate use.
Popularity in the United States
243,861 babies in the United States have been named Alfred since 1880. It ranks #161 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #818.
States where it is most popular
- NY (13.4 %)
- CA (7.5 %)
- PA (6.7 %)
- TX (6.2 %)
- MA (5.6 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 4,837 |
| 1890-1900 | 5,373 |
| 1900-1910 | 6,356 |
| 1910-1920 | 32,635 |
| 1920-1930 | 50,156 |
| 1930-1940 | 34,392 |
| 1940-1950 | 31,998 |
| 1950-1960 | 29,752 |
| 1960-1970 | 18,656 |
| 1970-1980 | 10,531 |
| 1980-1990 | 7,452 |
| 1990-2000 | 4,727 |
| 2000-2010 | 2,924 |
| 2010-2019 | 2,442 |
| 2020-2029 | 1,630 |
Famous people named Alfred
- Alfred Hitchcock: Filmmaker, Director
- Alfred Nobel: Chemist, Engineer
- Alfred Tennyson: Poet
Nicknames
Al, Alfie, Fred, Freddie
Fun facts
- King Alfred the Great of Wessex ruled in the 9th century and was known for encouraging education and defending his kingdom.
- The name is widely known modernly through Batman's loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth.