The name Bren is of Welsh origin and means "little drop or bead." It is a diminutive form of the Welsh name Bran, which means "raven." The name has been used in Wales for centuries, but it gained popularity outside of Wales during the late 20th century.
In Welsh mythology, Bran was a legendary giant who was known for his wisdom and knowledge. He was also associated with the natural world and was said to have the ability to shape-shift into various animals. The name Bren may have been given to children in honor of these mythological figures or as a wish for them to possess similar qualities.
In the Middle Ages, the name Bran was used among the Welsh nobility, and it is believed that the name Bren began to be used around this time as well. Over the centuries, the name has evolved and taken on various spellings, such as Brean, Bryn, and even Brendan.
Today, Bren is still a popular name in Wales, but it has also gained popularity internationally. It is often chosen by parents for its unique sound and meaning, as well as its connection to Welsh culture and history. Despite its Welsh origins, the name Bren can be used for children of any nationality or background.
The name Bren appears to have had varying popularity over the years, with several peaks and valleys in its usage. The highest numbers of births were recorded in recent years, notably 16 births in both 2003 and 2005, suggesting a resurgence in popularity during the early 2000s. However, the name's popularity seems to have dipped again since then, with the most recent years showing fewer than ten births each year. Overall, Bren has been used 547 times as a baby girl's name over these years.