Burk

“Descendant of the keeper of the fort”

Irish origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#10992US 2010

5Births / yr

↓Falling

244All-time births

📅 Since 189100.01% of births at peak

What does Burk mean and where does it come from?

Burk is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Buirg', which relates to a protector or a keeper of a fort. It has historical significance in Ireland and may imply strength or protection. The name is less common in contemporary times, but it retains an appeal for those interested in strong, mascul

Cultural significance

Burk has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Irish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of descendant of the keeper of the fort.

Peak popularity

Reached #952 in 1891 — currently #10992 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Burk?

Burk works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Burk Grace

How popular is Burk right now?

Falling — down 766 spots — currently #10992 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2010#10992 · Top 8.1%

1920

1925

1935

1970

1975

2005

2010

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2010	#12292	5	▼ down 766
2005	#11526	5	▼ down 5976
1975	#5550	5	▼ down 1659 · -29% births
1970	#3891	7	▼ down 164 · +40% births
1935	#3727	5	▼ down 519 · -37% births
1925	#3208	8	▲ up 1163 · +60% births
1920	#4371	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Burk

Best Year1925Rank #3208

Peak Count8

Average Rank#6366

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1920 - 20107 years

The story of Burk

Burk has been a beloved American name for over 133 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1891. With 244 total births recorded, Burk remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4371 in 1920, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12292 in 2010.

Names that peaked alongside Burk in 1891:

John William James George Charles

Burk by decade

Burk peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →

Decade	Births
1890s	6
1910s	10
1920s	33
1930s	22
1940s	10
1950s	23
1960s ★	51
1970s	33
1990s	6
2000s	22
2010s	28

💎Burk has only 244 total recorded births since 1891 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Burk?

Common

Famous people named Burk

Burk (Irish poet or writer)

Burk used this name in the rich tradition of Irish literature and storytelling.

Burk (Irish revolutionary)

Burk carried this name during Ireland's struggle for independence, giving it a spirit of courage.

Burk (traditional Irish musician)

Burk passed this name through generations of Irish musical tradition.

Burk (Celtic chieftain)

Burk bore this name in ancient Ireland, where it connected to the Gaelic oral tradition.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Burk?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Burk also consider these

Burr

American · A rough, prickly

Burl

English · a type of

Burt

English · bright, famous

Turk

English · of the Turkic

Kurk

American · from the marsh

Durk

USA · Derived from the

Bunk

English · of unknown meaning,

Buck

American · A nickname derived

Common questions about the name Burk

What does the name Burk mean?

Burk means "Descendant of the keeper of the fort" — a name rooted in Irish 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 Burk?

Burk is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Burk?

Burk originates from Irish tradition. Irish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How does Burk sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Burk flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Burk ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

Is Burk a common or rare name?

Burk is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.