BRIAN

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Brian

Brian is a popular surname of British origin. The name derives from the Old Celtic word "bre", meaning 'noble' or 'high'. The surname Brian is believed to have originated in Ireland and Scotland, having been introduced to England and Wales during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century.

Throughout history, the surname Brian has been borne by various notable individuals. One such figure is Sir Francis Brian, an English courtier and diplomat who served under King Henry VIII. Another prominent bearer of the name was Brian Boru, a High King of Ireland who famously defeated the Vikings at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014.

The surname Brian continues to be fairly common in the United Kingdom, with descendants of the original bearers scattered across the country. Variants of the name, such as Bryan or O'Brien, can also be found in different regions.

Overall, the surname Brian holds a significant place in British history and genealogy, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Celtic and Norman influences on the British Isles.

There are approximately 2,231 people named Brian in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,841st most common surname in Britain. Around 34 in a million people in Britain are named Brian.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Christopher
David
James
John
Mark
Matthew
Michael
Paul
Peter
Stephen

Female

Anne
Catherine
Deborah
Elizabeth
Emma
Irene
Joan
Karen
Linda
Lisa
Margaret
Mary
Sarah
Tracy

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.