Bradbury is a surname of English origin that is derived from the Old English word "brad," meaning broad, and "burh," which refers to a fortified settlement or borough. Therefore, the name Bradbury literally translates to "wide borough" or "broad fortified place."
The name Bradbury has been historically associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this surname is Ray Bradbury (1920-2012), an American author and screenwriter who was best known for his science fiction works, including "Fahrenheit 451" and "The Martian Chronicles." His works continue to influence popular culture today.
In terms of its usage as a given name, Bradbury is less common than it is as a surname. However, there are instances where parents have chosen this name for their sons due to its unique sound and association with the famous author Ray Bradbury. The name Bradbury may also be appealing to those who appreciate its historical ties to England and its literal meaning of "wide borough."
Overall, while Bradbury is not a highly popular given name, it does possess an interesting origin story and has been carried by several notable individuals throughout history, making it a unique choice for parents looking for something different for their child.
Bradbury is a unique and distinctive name that has seen varying popularity over the years in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration's data on U.S. baby names, Bradbury was given to five boys in 1949, marking its first appearance in the top 1000 most popular boy names of that year.
While this number may seem small compared to other popular names, it is significant as it indicates a consistent presence of the name Bradbury among newborns during that time period. It's interesting to note that despite not being one of the most common names, Bradbury has maintained its relevance and uniqueness throughout the years, with five births recorded annually in recent years.
In terms of overall popularity, Bradbury ranks at number 946 for boy names in the United States as of 2019. This ranking is a testament to the enduring appeal of this name, which has been consistently chosen by parents over the decades, despite not being among the most popular choices.
Furthermore, when looking at the geographical distribution of Bradbury births in the U.S., it appears that this name has been given with relative frequency across various states. This suggests that the popularity of Bradbury is not concentrated in a specific region but rather enjoyed national recognition and acceptance.
In conclusion, while Bradbury may not be one of the most common names in the United States, its consistent annual birth count and steady ranking over time indicate that it remains a beloved and distinctive choice for parents. With five births recorded annually, Bradbury continues to leave its mark on U.S. naming trends, contributing to the rich tapestry of unique names found across the country.
Statistics source: Social Security Administration's data on U.S. baby names