Brooklyn is a unisex given name of English origin. It means "from the brook", where "brook" refers to a small stream or creek and "lyn" means "from". The name has gained popularity in recent years, particularly for girls, but it can also be used for boys.
The use of Brooklyn as a given name is believed to have started in the late 19th century, with some of the earliest known records dating back to the 1870s. However, it was not widely used until the mid-20th century, when it began to appear more frequently in birth records.
One factor that may have contributed to the increased popularity of Brooklyn as a given name is its association with the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. The borough was founded in 1643 and named after the Dutch town of Breukelen. Over time, the name evolved into "Brooklyn", which has since become synonymous with the vibrant, multicultural neighborhood that it represents.
Another possible reason for the rise in popularity of the name Brooklyn is its use by celebrities and public figures. For example, the musician Beck and his wife Marissa Ribisi named their daughter Brooklyn in 1999, and the actor David Beckham and his wife Victoria (formerly known as Posh Spice) named their son Brooklyn in 1999 as well.
Overall, Brooklyn is a unique and distinctive given name with roots in English place-naming traditions. While its use has waxed and waned over time, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent decades, thanks in part to its association with the borough of Brooklyn and its adoption by high-profile parents. Despite its unisex origins, Brooklyn is currently more commonly used as a girl's name, although it can still be used for boys as well.
"Brooklyn's popularity as a girl's name saw a significant increase starting from the late 1970s, with a notable spike in usage beginning around 1990. Peak popularity was reached in 2005-2006 with over 4700 births each year. After 2012, the frequency of the name has been consistently decreasing."