Meaning, origin, history
Brad is a masculine given name of English origin that means "broad" or "wide." It is derived from the Old English word "brad," which referred to something being broad in width.
The name Brad has been popular throughout history, with notable figures such as actor Brad Pitt and former American football player Bradshaw gaining recognition for their achievements. However, its popularity peaked during the mid-20th century when it was among the top 10 most popular boy names in the United States between 1946 and 1953.
Despite its English origin, the name Brad has also been used in other countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. In some cases, it may be given to individuals who have a broad or robust personality or physical appearance that matches the meaning of their name.
Overall, Brad is a strong and distinctive masculine given name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its popularity has waxed and waned over time, but it remains a timeless choice for parents looking to give their son a powerful-sounding name with an interesting backstory.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Brad since 1880
Total births
233
Total since 1880
Peak year
1976
16 births
in 1987
10
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years