Bryan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Brían," which means "strong" or "noble." It is believed to have been brought to Ireland by the Normans during their invasion in the 12th century.
The name Bryan has a rich history and has been borne by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous Bryans was Saint Bryan, also known as Bryan of Clonard or Brian of Clonard. He was an Irish abbot and one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland in the 6th century. According to legend, Saint Bryan was a brilliant scholar who established many schools and monasteries throughout Ireland.
Another notable figure with the name Bryan was Bryan Fiennes de Toucy, also known as Brian FitzCount or Brian FitzRichard. He was a Norman nobleman who played a significant role in the Anarchy, a civil war between Stephen of England and Matilda, daughter of Henry I, for the English throne in the 12th century.
Today, Bryan is still a popular name around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Bryan was among the top 500 most popular boys' names in the United States for several decades of the 20th century.
In summary, Bryan is a strong and noble name with Irish origins that has been carried by many notable figures throughout history. Its meaning and rich history make it a popular choice for parents seeking a meaningful and timeless name for their son.
The name Bryan experienced considerable fluctuations in popularity over the past seven decades. Starting with just six births recorded in 1951, it peaked in 1983 with a remarkable 69 births. From there, popularity steadily declined, reaching its lowest point in recent years with only five births each in 2016 and 2021. Overall, the name Bryan has been given to 1717 babies over this period.