Bryn is a unisex name of Welsh origin, meaning "hill" or "mound." It is derived from the Welsh word "bryn," which refers to a hill or mound that is often found in natural landscapes throughout Wales.
The name Bryn has been used in Wales for centuries and was popularized by several notable figures. One such figure was Sir Thomas Picton, a British Army officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars. Picton's family estate was named "Brynbach," which may have contributed to the name's popularity at the time.
In literature, Bryn has been used as a character name in various works. For example, it appears in the novel "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" series as one of the Ents who guards Fangorn Forest.
Today, Bryn is still considered a unique and distinctive name choice for both boys and girls. While its popularity has varied over time, it remains a popular option among parents seeking a name with Welsh heritage and meaning.
The name Bryn experienced a significant surge in popularity starting around the late 1960s, with a steady increase from 20 births per year to peaking at 370 births in 2011. However, it has since declined, with only 93 births recorded in 2023. Over the entire period from 1949 to 2023, there were a total of 7347 babies named Bryn.