What does Burt mean and where does it come from?
Burt is a diminutive of the Old English name 'Beorht' or 'Bert', which means 'bright' or 'famous'. Historically used as a surname, it gained popularity as a first name in the early 20th century. Notable bearers include Burt Lancaster, an acclaimed American actor. The name conveys connotations of bri
Cultural significance
Burt has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, famous.
Peak popularity
Reached #258 in 1880 — currently #790 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Burt?
Burt works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Burt Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Burt Rose
Floral · soft ending
Burt Claire
French influence · crisp
Burt Jane
Literary · strong
Burt Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Burt right now?
Holding steady — currently #790 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #790 | 1,410 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #795 | 1,390 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #800 | 1,360 | ▲ up 6625 · +16900% births |
| 2000 | #7425 | 8 | ▲ up 380 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #7805 | 6 | ▼ down 3632 · -54% births |
| 1990 | #4173 | 13 | ▼ down 1103 · -13% births |
| 1985 | #3070 | 15 | ▼ down 1730 · -69% births |
| 1980 | #1340 | 49 | ▼ down 341 · -27% births |
| 1975 | #999 | 67 | ▼ down 83 · -12% births |
| 1970 | #916 | 76 | ▼ down 137 · -16% births |
| 1965 | #779 | 90 | ▼ down 33 · -16% births |
| 1960 | #746 | 107 | ▼ down 86 · -12% births |
| 1955 | #660 | 122 | ▲ up 20 · +21% births |
| 1950 | #680 | 101 | ▲ up 62 · +49% births |
| 1945 | #742 | 68 | — |
The story of Burt
Burt has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 6,554 total births recorded, Burt remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #258 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #790 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Burt in 1880:
Burt by decade
Burt peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 277 | |
| 1890s | 179 | |
| 1900s | 144 | |
| 1910s | 482 | |
| 1920s | 757 | |
| 1930s | 728 | |
| 1940s | 802 | |
| 1950s ★ | 1,237 | |
| 1960s | 922 | |
| 1970s | 670 | |
| 1980s | 261 | |
| 1990s | 70 | |
| 2000s | 19 | |
| 2010s | 6 | |
💎With 6,554 total births, Burt is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Burt?
What names sound and feel like Burt?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Burt also consider these
Common questions about the name Burt
What does the name Burt mean?
Burt means "bright, famous" — 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 Burt?
Burt is currently ranked #790 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 Burt?
Burt 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 does Burt sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Burt flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Burt ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
What personality traits are associated with the name Burt?
Studies on name perception suggest that Burt is often associated with strength and reliability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.