What does Drake mean and where does it come from?
While traditionally a male name derived from Old English meaning 'dragon' or 'male duck', Drake has been used as a feminine name in recent years, especially in the United States. It conveys images of power and uniqueness. The name is gaining traction in modern surnames or nicknames. A notable indivi
Cultural significance
Drake has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of in its feminine use, drake can refer to a 'dragon' or 'dragon-like'..
Peak popularity
Reached #659 in 2024 — currently #827 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Drake?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Drake?
Drake works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Drake Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Drake John
One syllable · timeless choice
Drake Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Drake Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Drake Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Drake Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Drake right now?
Falling — down 168 spots — currently #827 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #827 | 299 | ▼ down 168 · -28% births |
| 2024 | #659 | 416 | ▲ up 22 · +5% births |
| 2023 | #681 | 397 | ▼ down 51 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #630 | 442 | ▼ down 62 · -11% births |
| 2021 | #568 | 496 | ▲ up 14608 · +9820% births |
| 2020 | #15176 | 5 | ▼ down 2787 · -37% births |
| 2010 | #12389 | 8 | ▲ up 2286 · +33% births |
| 2005 | #14675 | 6 | ▼ down 1346 |
| 2000 | #13329 | 6 | ▼ down 1377 |
| 1995 | #11952 | 6 | — |
The story of Drake
Drake is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1994. A total of 34,774 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11952 in 1995 to #681 in 2023. Drake is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Drake in 2024:
Drake by decade
Drake peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 11 | |
| 1930s | 12 | |
| 1940s | 192 | |
| 1950s | 398 | |
| 1960s | 588 | |
| 1970s | 367 | |
| 1980s | 1,177 | |
| 1990s | 7,478 | |
| 2000s ★ | 13,551 | |
| 2010s | 10,467 | |
| 2020s | 1,243 | |
What are good nicknames for Drake?
What names sound and feel like Drake?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Drake also consider these
Common questions about the name Drake
What does the name Drake mean?
Drake means "In its feminine use, Drake can refer to a 'dragon' or 'dragon-like'." — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Drake?
Drake is currently ranked #681 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Drake?
Drake originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Drake?
Drake is a one-syllable name pronounced DRAYK. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Drake sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Drake flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Drake ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.