Drew
DROO
Drew is a Scottish short form of Andrew, which derives from the Greek Andreas, itself rooted in aner meaning man or manly, conveying courage and strength of character. Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and the Saltire, Scotland's national flag, depicts his diagonal cross, making the name deeply embedded in Scottish national identity. Drew works equally well for boys and girls and has a clean, confident, modern feel.
At a glance
A crisp, confident Scottish short form with saintly roots that wears equally well on a boy or a girl.
Etymology & History
Drew developed as a Scottish pet form and contraction of Andrew, which came to Scotland via the Latin Andreas and ultimately from Greek. The Greek root aner, meaning man, forms the basis of the name's meaning. As a standalone name Drew gained currency in Scotland and Ireland before spreading to the English-speaking world more broadly, particularly as a given name independent of Andrew from the twentieth century onwards.
Cultural Significance
Saint Andrew's connection to Scotland is ancient and profound: he became the country's patron saint by the eighth or ninth century, and the X-shaped cross of his martyrdom forms the Scottish Saltire, one of the oldest national flags in the world. Drew as a given name carries that Scots heritage while also feeling thoroughly modern and internationally usable. Its gender-neutral appeal has grown significantly since the 1980s, particularly in the United States, where bearers like Drew Barrymore helped establish it as a feminine choice.
Famous people named Drew
Saint Andrew
Apostle of Jesus and patron saint of Scotland, whose cross forms the Scottish Saltire flag.
Drew Barrymore
American actress, producer, and television host known for her career spanning decades of Hollywood film.
Drew Brees
American NFL quarterback and one of the most successful passers in the history of American football.
Drew Carey
American comedian and television host, best known for hosting The Price Is Right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Drew
Andrew
“Strong, manly, brave and courageous”
Andrew derives from the Greek word "andreios," meaning "strong" or "manly." It is a name that has carried connotations of courage, resilience, and vigour for over two millennia. Rooted in classical ideals of strength and character, Andrew remains one of the most enduring names in the English-speaking world.
Drake
“Dragon, male duck”
Drake carries the primary meaning of 'dragon' or 'male duck,' both rooted in its Old English and Old Norse heritage. As a given name it conveys strength, power, and a certain wild, untameable spirit associated with the mythical dragon. It has long been used as a surname and place-name element before transitioning into popular use as a first name.
Flynn
“Son of the red-haired one”
Flynn means 'son of the red-haired one,' carrying connotations of fiery energy, boldness, and a spirited nature. The name suggests someone lively and charismatic, with a heritage of Irish-English crossover culture. It has a modern, dynamic sound that feels both classic and fresh.
Grant
“Great, tall”
Grant originates as a surname from the Norman-French 'grand' or 'le grand', meaning great or tall. It was carried into Scotland by Norman settlers and became one of the great Highland clan names. As a first name, it retains that sense of stature and capability: confident without arrogance, straightforward without being plain. It is a name that wears well through every stage of life, from childhood to old age, without requiring nicknames or modification.
Reid
“Red-haired, ruddy complexion”
Reid is a crisp, one-syllable name with Scottish and English roots that has grown popular as a first name in recent decades. Originally a surname denoting red-haired ancestry, it now stands confidently on its own as a given name. Its brevity and strong sound make it particularly appealing in modern naming trends.
Rory
“Red king”
Rory is the anglicised form of the Old Irish name Ruairi, meaning red king, from the elements 'rua' (red) and 'ri' (king). Rory O'Connor was the last High King of Ireland, reigning at the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion in the twelfth century. Though traditionally a masculine Gaelic name, Rory has increasingly been embraced as a unisex name in the English-speaking world, known for its bright, energetic sound.
Ross
“Headland, promontory”
Ross comes from the Scottish Gaelic word ros, meaning headland or promontory. It is both a geographic term and a historic clan name, with roots stretching deep into the landscape and lineage of the Scottish Highlands. The name carries a sense of solidity and natural strength, evoking rugged coastlines and enduring heritage.
Where you'll find Drew
Drew shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.