Brian
Brian first appears in US records in 1909. It peaked in 1972, when 36,306 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 979.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Brian popular?
Declining Brian is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1972 peak.
| 2020s | 6,773 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 24,107 | |
| 2000s | 69,775 | |
| 1990s | 119,309 | |
| 1980s | 233,993 | |
| 1970s | 322,660 | |
| 1960s | 258,129 | |
| 1950s | 112,336 | |
| 1940s | 22,793 | |
| 1930s | 3,173 | |
| 1920s | 566 | |
| 1910s | 116 | |
| 1900s | 5 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Brian mean?
Brian is a name of Celtic (Irish) origin whose meaning is debated; it is often linked to a root meaning “high, noble” or “strong.” Its fame owes much to Brian Boru, the High King who united Ireland in the 11th century.
Nicknames for Brian
- Bri
Variants & spellings
- Bryan
- Brien
- Bryant
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
Is Brian a boy or a girl name?
Brian is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Brian a popular name right now?
Brian is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1972 peak.
How popular is the name Brian?
In 2025, Brian ranked #339 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Brian most popular?
Brian was most popular in 1972, when about 36,306 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Brian?
Common nicknames for Brian include Bri.