Brae is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "brèige", which means "hillside" or "slope". The name Brae has a strong connection to nature and the Scottish landscape, as it evokes images of rolling hills and verdant countryside.
The use of Brae as a given name is believed to have started in Scotland during the late 19th century. It was initially used more commonly as a surname before becoming popular as a boys' name in the early 20th century. Today, Brae continues to be a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
Despite its Scottish origins, Brae has also gained popularity beyond Scotland. In recent years, it has been used as a given name in other English-speaking countries such as England, Australia, and the United States. While still relatively rare, Brae is considered a stylish and modern choice for parents looking to give their child a distinctive yet meaningful name.
In terms of its meaning and symbolism, the name Brae represents strength, stability, and resilience. Like the hillsides it is named after, those who bear the name Brae are often seen as steadfast and enduring individuals who can weather even the toughest storms. The name also conveys a sense of rootedness and connection to one's surroundings, reflecting the deep bond between the Scottish people and their rugged, beautiful landscape.
Overall, Brae is a unique and meaningful given name that draws its power from the natural beauty of Scotland's hillsides. With its distinctive sound and strong Gaelic heritage, Brae continues to be an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Brae has seen a varied level of popularity over the past four decades in the United States. Between 1980 and 2023, there have been a total of 143 babies named Brae.
The most popular years for the name were recently, with 11 births recorded in 2023. This was an increase from the previous year, which had 5 births in 2022. The second-highest year for the name Brae was in 2020 and 2021, both years saw 7 births each.
Interestingly, there have been several years where the number of babies named Brae has remained consistent. For instance, between 1980 and 2014, there were three separate occasions (1980, 1993, and 2010) where exactly 6 births were recorded.
Despite some fluctuation in popularity over the years, it's clear that the name Brae has maintained a consistent presence in the United States. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues in the coming years.