The name Bram is of Dutch origin and means "strong" or "having robust health". It is derived from the Old Frisian word "bramm", which had a similar meaning. The name has been used in the Netherlands since at least the Middle Ages, but it became more popular during the 20th century.
Bram is often associated with the famous Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte, whose real given name was Emmanuel. However, he was known by his middle name Bram throughout his life. The artist was born on November 21, 1898, in Lessines, Belgium, and grew up in Brussels. He became famous for his witty and thought-provoking paintings that challenged the nature of reality.
In literature, Bram Stoker is a well-known Irish author who wrote the classic gothic horror novel "Dracula". Born on November 8, 1847, in Dublin, Ireland, Stoker was also known by his given name Abraham. Despite its association with Dracula, the name Bram remains popular among parents who are looking for a strong and unique name for their son.
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the name Bram due to its use as the main character's name in the popular video game series "The Legend of Zelda". In these games, Bram is an important character who plays a significant role in the storylines. This has helped to make the name more recognizable and appealing to modern parents.
Overall, Bram is a strong and unique name with a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. Its meaning and origins make it a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their son, while its association with famous figures like René Magritte and Bram Stoker add to its appeal.
The name Bram has seen a significant increase in popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 1437 babies being named Bram since 1948.
In the early years, the number of births was relatively low, with only 5 births in both 1948 and 1951. However, there was a notable increase in the late 1960s and early 1970s, reaching a peak of 19 births in 1973 and 1975.
The popularity of the name Bram continued to fluctuate throughout the 80s and 90s, with some years seeing as many as 32 births (in 1994) and others as few as 8 (in multiple years).
However, since the year 2000, there has been a consistent increase in the number of babies named Bram. In fact, the highest numbers of births have occurred in recent years, with 72 births in 2016 and 55 births in 2013.
Overall, it is clear that while the name Bram may not have always been among the most popular choices for parents, its popularity has grown significantly over time, making it a well-established name in the United States today.