“Traditionally, Brad is a male name derived from the Old English word for 'broad valley' (broad + aed)” — Associated with friendliness and approachability
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls
#1202US 2023
998Births / yr
→Stable
83.2kAll-time births
📅 Since 195500
How to pronounce Brad
BRAD
/ˈbræd/ · stress on BRAD · 1 syllable
“Traditionally, Brad is a male name derived from the Old English word for 'broad valley' (broad + aed)”
Associated with friendliness and approachability · English origin
What does Brad mean and where does it come from?
Traditionally, Brad is a male name derived from the Old English word for 'broad valley' (broad + aed). However, it has been adopted recently in a gender-neutral context among some communities. Its usage is often associated with friendliness and approachability. Related associations include the use o
Cultural significance
Brad has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #3976 in 1976 — currently #1202 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1202 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1955–2023#1202 · Top 0.89%
1955
1960
1970
1975
1980
1985
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1202
998
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1207
978
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1212
948
▲ up 7146 · +13443% births
1985
#8358
7
▼ down 2424 · -36% births
1980
#5934
11
▲ up 581 · +38% births
1975
#6515
8
▼ down 2246 · -38% births
1970
#4269
13
▲ up 934 · +86% births
1960
#5203
7
▲ up 674 · +40% births
1955
#5877
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Brad
2023Rank #1202
998
#4420
↗Rising
1955 - 20239 years
The story of Brad
Brad entered American naming records in 1955 and has been in use for over 69 years. A total of 83,185 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5877 in 1955 to #1202 in 2023. Brad is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Brad means "English" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Brad?
Brad is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Brad?
Brad originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Brad?
Brad is a one-syllable name pronounced B R AE1 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Brad sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Brad flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Brad ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Brad
For a sister
Brad & Emily♡
Brad & Molly♡
Brad & Kimberly♡
Brad & Mark♡
For a brother
Brad & Molly♡
Brad & Mark♡
Brad & Lane♡
Brad & Paxton♡
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