Brennan
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Brennan
Brennan, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.
Meaning of Brennan
Raven-like
Brennan is an Irish name derived from the Gaelic word "breanainn," meaning "descendant of a sad one." It is also associated with the word "braon," meaning "rain," or "tear."
| Meaning | Raven-like |
| Origin | Celtic |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #995 in 2022 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | 2000s name |
Background & History of The Name Brennan
The name Brennan is of Irish origin and has several possible meanings. One of the most commonly accepted meanings is "descendant of Braonán," with Braonán being a personal name derived from the Irish word "braon," meaning "raindrop" or "moisture." Another interpretation suggests that Brennan may be a variant of the Irish surname O'Braonáin, derived from "braon" combined with the Gaelic patronymic prefix "O," indicating "son of." The name Brennan also has connections to the ancient Celtic god Bran, who was associated with ravens and protection. Regardless of its etymology, Brennan is a surname that has been in use for centuries and can be traced back to medieval Ireland.
Brennan is a unisex name, meaning it can be given to both boys and girls, although in recent years it has been more commonly used for boys. The name gained popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century and continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking an Irish or Celtic name for their child. Famous individuals bearing the name Brennan include Brennan Boesch, a former Major League Baseball player, and Brennan Elliott, a Canadian actor. The popularity of the name has led to various variants and alternate spellings, such as Brennen, Brenan, and Breannan.
Those named Brennan are often described as intelligent, confident, and ambitious individuals. They are known for their analytical and logical thinking, as well as their ability to solve complex problems. Brennans are often natural leaders and are highly determined and focused in achieving their goals. They are also known for their strong work ethic and their ability to inspire and motivate others. In terms of personality, those with the name Brennan tend to be friendly and outgoing, with a good sense of humor and a love of socializing.
In summary, the name Brennan is an Irish surname with various meanings and connections to ancient Celtic culture. It is a unisex name that has gained popularity in recent years, and those bearing the name are often described as intelligent, confident, and ambitious individuals.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Brennan over the years.
Similar Celtic Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Brennan.
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