Origin and Meaning of Drake

Dragon / Male Duck

Origin: English - Derived from the Old English word 'draca', meaning dragon, and from the Old Norse 'draki'. The name can also refer to a male duck, coming from the Old Norse 'drakkr'.

• Drake has been used as a surname and a given name, with roots in the medieval period where it may have been used to signify a person associated with dragons or marine life.
• In various cultures, versions of the name Drake exist; for example, it can be linked to 'Dragan' in Slavic cultures, which comes from a similar root meaning 'to love'.
• Notable bearers of the name include Canadian rapper Drake (Aubrey Drake Graham), who has significantly influenced contemporary music and pop culture.
• Drake has seen a surge in popularity in the early 21st century, particularly in North America, as a result of its association with the music industry.
• Variations and related names include Drayke, Drac, and Draken, which have been embraced by modern naming trends.