Bryan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the ancient Celtic name "Brían." The meaning behind this name is "high, noble," which reflects its origins in Celtic culture and history.
The name Bryan has been popular throughout various periods in history. It was particularly common among the Irish nobility during the Middle Ages, with many prominent figures carrying the name. One notable example is Brian Boru, who was High King of Ireland from 1002 to 1014 AD. He is considered a national hero for his role in unifying Ireland and defending it against Viking invasions.
In English-speaking countries such as England and America, the name Bryan became more widespread during the 19th century. It gained further popularity in the United States after Irish immigrants brought their traditional names with them when they settled there. Today, Bryan remains a popular choice for parents looking to give their child a strong, classic name with rich historical roots.
Overall, the name Bryan carries an air of nobility and strength that is fitting for its Celtic origins. Its long history and association with notable figures like Brian Boru have helped it endure as a beloved and respected name throughout generations.
The name Bryan experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over time, with a substantial increase starting around the late 1940s and peaking in the mid-1950s. From 1954 onwards, the number of annual births with the name Bryan consistently exceeded 1,000, reaching a high of 6,255 in 1968. However, this popularity declined rapidly from the late 1970s onwards, with fewer than 1,000 births each year since 1984. The name Bryan reached its most recent peak in popularity in the mid-1990s, with around 6,000 births annually, but has since decreased significantly, with only 1,079 births recorded in 2023. Overall, there were a total of 387,463 births with the name Bryan between 1883 and 2023.