Brae is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "brèige", which translates to "hillside" or "slope". It is often associated with the Scottish Highlands, where many hillsides and slopes can be found.
The meaning behind Brae is simple yet profound. It symbolizes growth, strength, and resilience, as hills are often weathered and enduring despite the elements they face. This could imply that someone named Brae may possess these qualities or have a deep connection to nature and its beauty.
The history of the name Brae is not well-documented due to its rarity. However, it is believed to have been used occasionally in Scotland as a given name, perhaps more commonly as a surname. Today, Brae is still considered quite uncommon, but it has gained some popularity in recent years, particularly among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children.
In terms of its usage, Brae does not conform to typical gender norms. While it may be perceived as more masculine due to its Scottish origins, it can also be given to a girl or used as a gender-neutral name. Ultimately, the meaning and origin of Brae make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a deep-rooted history and profound symbolism.
The name Brae has been consistently present in the United States over the past five decades, with a total of 203 births recorded since 1970. The highest number of births occurred in 2012 and 2014-2015, each year seeing 10 or more babies named Brae. Interestingly, the name's popularity seems to fluctuate every few years. For instance, there were no recorded births with the name Brae between 1987 and 1989, but it resurged in 1990 with seven births. Similarly, after a peak of nine births in 2004, the number dropped to five in 2005 before rising again to six in 2009. This trend continued until recently, with fluctuations between five and ten births per year from 2011 onwards.
While Brae may not be among the most common names in the U.S., its consistent presence over time suggests that it holds some appeal for parents. It's fascinating to observe how the popularity of this name has evolved over the years, with periods of increased and decreased usage. Despite these fluctuations, one thing is clear: the name Brae has left its mark on American naming trends since 1970.