Brian

Meaning & Origin

Meaning: Noble; Strong

Background: The name Brian originates from the Old Irish name 'Brían,' which is derived from the word 'brígh,' meaning 'noble' or 'strong.' This name has been associated with various historical figures in Ireland, most notably Brian Boru, a high king of Ireland.

At a glance

Quick stats based on the history of this name.

Lifetime rank
#25
Total births
1,177,325
Most popular decade
1970s (972,831 births)
10-year trend
↓ Falling (-133 ranks)
Years in Top 100
63
First recorded year
1909

Gender usage

99.6% male 0.4% female

Stats by gender

Male

First year
1909
First year births
5
First year rank
#1,440
Peak year
1972
Peak year births
36,309
Peak rank
#8
Most recent year
2024
Recent year births
1,111
Recent rank
#301

Female

First year
1943
First year births
10
First year rank
#3,040
Peak year
1977
Peak year births
181
Peak rank
#829
Most recent year
2015
Recent year births
5
Recent rank
#16,416

Births over time

Number of babies given this name each year.

Rank over time

Popularity rank by year (1 = most popular).

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