Braxton is an American given name of recent origin, predominantly used for males. It was popularized during the late 20th century, particularly among African American families, and has since gained wider recognition. The name Braxton is derived from a surname of English origin, which itself comes from the Old English word 'bræc', meaning 'breech' or 'trousers'. Therefore, the name Braxton can be interpreted as 'little trousers'. However, it's important to note that this etymology does not seem to influence the current perception and usage of the name. Today, Braxton is often associated with its most famous bearer, Braxton Hicks contractions, which are FALSE labor contractions that occur during pregnancy. Despite this medical association, the name continues to be chosen for its unique sound and stylishness. In terms of popularity, Braxton reached its peak in the United States during the late 1990s to early 2000s but has since declined somewhat. Nonetheless, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet appealing name for their son.
"The name Braxton peaked in popularity around the late 1990s and early 2000s with over 35 births per year, but has since declined significantly to about a dozen births annually."