Brewster is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the Old English language.
The name Brewster is derived from the Old English word "bréost-brother," which translates to "breast-brother." This term was used to refer to a member of a religious order who had taken holy orders but had not yet been ordained as a priest. These individuals were known for their piety and devotion, living lives dedicated to spiritual growth and service.
The name Brewster first appeared in the early Middle Ages, with one of its earliest known bearers being Osbert Brewster, a 12th-century monk from the Monastery of St. Augustine in Canterbury. Over time, the name became more commonly used as a given name rather than simply an occupational title.
In terms of popularity, Brewster has been relatively uncommon throughout history. However, it has seen some notable figures bearing this name, such as American politician Henry Cabot Lodge Brewster and English cricketer Albert Brewster.
Despite its rarity, the name Brewster continues to be chosen by parents today who appreciate its unique sound and rich historical significance. It is often associated with strength of character, devotion, and dedication - qualities that are fitting for a name with such deep spiritual roots.
The name Brewster has been given to babies born in the United States for over a century, with fluctuations in its popularity over time. According to the data provided, there were seven births with the name Brewster in 1913. The following year, the number of babies named Brewster increased to ten.
However, the popularity of the name began to decline after 1914. Between 1915 and 1921, the number of births with the name Brewster ranged from five to thirteen, showing some volatility in its usage during these years.
In the late 1920s and early 1930s, there was a slight resurgence in the popularity of the name Brewster. Between 1926 and 1934, the number of babies named Brewster fluctuated between seven and eleven births per year.
The middle of the twentieth century saw another decline in the use of the name Brewster. From 1940 to 1967, there were fewer than ten births with the name each year, indicating that it was not a widely popular choice during this period.
However, in recent decades, the name Brewster has experienced some renewed popularity among parents in the United States. Between 1985 and 2020, there have been at least five births with the name Brewster every year, with peaks of eleven births in 1985 and seven births in 2003.
Overall, a total of 355 babies were named Brewster in the United States between 1913 and 2020. While the popularity of the name has ebbed and flowed over time, it remains a unique and distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name for their child.