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Bradley

Boy name · 1,597 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Bradley: 1,597 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 84 births in 1998.

Of English origin, Bradley began as a locational surname meaning "broad clearing" or "broad meadow," from the Old English words *brād* (broad) and *lēah* (woodland clearing). The name gained popularity as a first name in the 20th century, particularly in the United States and Scotland. Famous bearers include the American general Omar Bradley, a key commander during World War II, and actor Bradley Cooper, known for his roles in *Silver Linings Playbook* and *A Star Is Born*. The name also connects to the English town of Bradley in Derbyshire, which shares the same etymological root. A notable variant is the Irish form Bradaigh, though Bradley remains the most common spelling in Scotland, where it has been a steady choice since the 1970s.