Bradford

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What does the baby name Bradford mean? Learn about what Bradford means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Bradford - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Bradford
B-R-A-D-F-O-R-D, is a 8-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Bradford
BRAD-fərd
Meaning of Bradford
A river crossing, from the broad ford, a person living near a ford, a broad ford.
Origin of Bradford
The earliest known use of the name 'Bradford' can be traced back to the 12th century in Yorkshire, England. It was originally a surname, indicating that the bearer of the name hailed from a place called 'Bradford'. This place name refers to several locations in England, including the city of 'Bradford' in West Yorkshire, which is now a bustling urban center.
American Names
English Names
Old English Names
Surname Names
Popularity of Bradford
The popularity of the name 'Bradford' has fluctuated over time. In the 19th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in the United States. This increase in popularity can be attributed to the trend of using surnames as given names during that era. However, since the mid-20th century, the name has seen a decline in usage and is now considered relatively uncommon.
Bradford currently has 141 likes, and is in the top 3% of liked boy's names. The name Cohen is slightly more popular than Bradford.

Etymology of Bradford

The etymology of the name 'Bradford' can be traced back to the Old English language. The word 'brad' means 'broad' or 'wide', while 'ford' refers to a shallow area in a river or stream that allows for easy crossing. The combination of these two words creates the meaning 'broad ford', suggesting a place where a river or stream can be crossed without difficulty.

Cultural Significance of Bradford

While the name 'Bradford' does not hold significant cultural associations, it is worth noting that it is deeply rooted in English history and heritage. It reflects the geographical features of the English landscape, with its reference to a broad ford. Additionally, the name's association with Yorkshire and the city of 'Bradford' carries historical and cultural significance within the region.