Bradley is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "brad" meaning "broad" or "wide". It was originally used as a surname, referring to someone who lived near a broad river or meadow. The name Bradley has been in use for centuries and has become quite popular in recent years.
The earliest record of the name Bradley as a given name is believed to be from the 17th century, although it may have been used before that time. It was initially more common as a surname, but over time, it began to be used more frequently as a first name for boys.
Historically, the name Bradley has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. For example, Sir Thomas Bradley was an English politician and merchant who lived in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He served as Mayor of London and was known for his support of the wool trade. Additionally, Bradley Fighting Vehicle is a type of armored fighting vehicle used by the US military, named after General Omar N. Bradley, a highly decorated American soldier who fought in World War II.
Today, Bradley remains a popular choice for parents naming their sons. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 names for boys in the United States since the early 20th century. The name is also popular in other English-speaking countries such as Canada and Australia.
In terms of its meaning, the name Bradley evokes images of expansiveness and openness, reflecting its original association with broad rivers or meadows. It is a strong and distinctive name that has stood the test of time, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a classic yet unique name for their son.
Here are some interesting statistics about the name Bradley:
Over a span of two decades, from 1961 to 1989, the number of babies named Bradley born each year in the United States fluctuated. The highest peak was in 1969 with 11 births, indicating that this could have been a popular name choice for parents at that time.
In contrast, the lowest point occurred in 1983 and again in both 1987 and 1988, each with only 5 births. This suggests that perhaps by these years, the name Bradley was not as fashionable among new parents.
Across this 28-year period, there were a total of 60 babies named Bradley born in the United States. Despite some ups and downs in popularity over time, Bradley remained a recognizable and chosen name during these decades.
These statistics provide insight into the trends surrounding the name Bradley and demonstrate how its popularity has evolved over several years.