Brian
Boy name · 7,753 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Brian: 7,753 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 623 births in 1974.
From the Old Celtic *brigantinos* meaning "high, noble," Brian is a name that has travelled far from its ancient roots in Ireland and Scotland. Perhaps its most celebrated bearer is Brian Boru, the 11th-century high king who drove Viking forces from Ireland. In modern times, the name is shared by actor Brian Cox and Queen guitarist Brian May, both towering figures in their fields. The French alpine town of Briançon shares the same Celtic root, *brigantion* ("fortress"), linking the name to both nobility and strength. A common variant is Bryan, equally popular across the English-speaking world.
Boy 52 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1974623 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #26914 babies
- Total births
- 7,753since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 16%vs prior 5y