📅 Since 1897🏆 39 years in top 1001.18% of births at peak
How to pronounce Brenda
BREND·uh
/ˈbrɛnd.ə/ · stress on BREND · 2 syllables
“Sword; beacon on the hill”
English origin · Girl name
What does Brenda mean and where does it come from?
Brenda is a name of uncertain origin, but it is thought to be of Scottish descent, potentially derived from the Old Norse 'brandr,' meaning sword or 'berandi,' meaning beacon. The name rose to popularity in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Famous bearers include Brenda L
Cultural significance
Brenda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sword; beacon on the hill.
Holding steady — currently #515 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1905–2023#515 · Top 0.38%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#515
1,685
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#520
1,665
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#525
1,635
▲ up 734 · +824% births
2020
#1259
177
▼ down 455 · -49% births
2015
#804
349
▼ down 378 · -52% births
2010
#426
732
▼ down 217 · -56% births
2005
#209
1,660
▼ down 37 · -13% births
2000
#172
1,898
▼ down 53 · -27% births
1995
#119
2,610
▲ up 4 · -1% births
1990
#123
2,633
▼ down 1 · +10% births
1985
#122
2,385
▼ down 7 · -10% births
1980
#115
2,647
▼ down 48 · -38% births
1975
#67
4,239
▼ down 27 · -49% births
1970
#40
8,336
▼ down 17 · -45% births
1965
#23
15,059
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Brenda
1960Rank #13
23,961
#523
↗Rising
1905 - 202327 years
The story of Brenda
Brenda has been a beloved American name for over 127 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1897. Its peak popularity was #11 in 1961. Over 610K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1516 in 1905 to #515 in 2023. Brenda is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Brenda means "Sword; beacon on the hill" — 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 Brenda?
Brenda is currently ranked #515 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 Brenda?
Brenda 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 Brenda?
Brenda is a two-syllable name pronounced B R EH1 N D AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Brenda more of a girl or boy name?
Brenda is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Brenda
For a sister
Brenda & Kimberly♡
Brenda & Mark♡
Brenda & Derek♡
Brenda & Jane♡
For a brother
Brenda & Mark♡
Brenda & Steven♡
Brenda & Derek♡
Brenda & Jane♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#515
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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