Save the Name Brian
The name Brian is slowly dying of non use in Britain. Despite famous celebrities like Brian Johnston, the cricket commentator and Brian Jones, the founder of the rock group the Rolling Stones. The name Brian was very popular in England and Wales in 1934, but since 1994 it has dropped out of the top 100.
Meaning and Origin
The meaning of Brian was derived from an Old Celtic word meaning “high” or “noble”. Another meaning of Brian is derived from the Celtic first name and used as a surname in the French and English languages.
Popularity
In the United States it was most popular, ranking in the top ten from 1968-1979. The Irish still love the name Brian because of the 10th century king of Ireland, Brian Boru.
Famous People with the Name Brian
Other famous people with the first name of Brian are the actor Brian Blessed, Brian Epstein, the manager of the Beatles. There is also Brian May, lead guitarist for Queen that wrote the song, We Will Rock You and Brian DePalma, the director of the hit movies Carrie and Bonfire of the Vanities.
So your child will be in good company with this name. Let’s put Brian back in the top ten where it belongs.
Useful Resources
- Our complete list of English male names.
- Discover the most popular English baby boy’s names.
