Brian

Updated: October 23, 2023 by Stephanie Graham

The baby name Brian is a noble and rich Irish option. King Brian Boru of the eleventh century made this name what it is today. Even now, though centuries old, Brian is still a top 300 name for boys.

Meaning and Origin of the name Brian:

Brian is an Irish boy's name of Celtic origin meaning “strong,” “virtuous,” “honorable,” “high,” “noble.”

Not much is known about the origins of the baby name Brian. Some say that it comes from the Celtic word brixs (meaning “hill,” “high,” or “elevated”) or from the Celtic word brigā (meaning “power”). The popularity of the name began after the rule of the Irish king Brian Boru. He was known for defeating the Vikings who invaded Ireland in the eleventh century. The name spread into the United Kingdom via the Bretons in the Middle Ages.

Symbolism of the name Brian:

If Brian came from the word brixs, it is because a hill would be “high” or “noble” in Irish culture. The meanings of “strong,” “virtuous,” and “honorable” are probably because these were qualities seen in King Brian Boru.

Nicknames for the name Brian:

Brian is a strong name for boys that has several nicknames for you to choose from. We put together this list to help you find a great nickname for your baby boy.

Bri
Brye
Brain
Rian
Rain
B
BB
Ryan
Rye

Style of the name Brian:

Traditional

Gender of the name Brian:

Brian is a name for boys.

Pronunciation of the name Brian:

BRIE-en

Number of syllables in the name Brian:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Brian:

Brian feels noble, wholesome, and strong. It is a simple name that is still full of pride and honor.

Alternative spellings for the name Brian:

Popularity of the name Brian:

Brian has been a top 1,000 name in America since 1925 at number 873. It was a top 100 name from 1947 to 2009, a top 50 name from 1954 to 2001, and a top 10 name from 1967 to 1979. As of 2020, the name is not quite as popular as it ranks at number 270.