Brendan

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

Brendan - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Brendan
B-R-E-N-D-A-N, is a 7-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Brendan
BREN-dən
BREN den
Meaning of Brendan
Little raven, prince, living by the beacon, a raven, sword.
Origin of Brendan
The name 'Brendan' has its roots in the Irish language. It is derived from the old Irish name 'Bréanainn', which is believed to have originated from the Welsh word 'brenin', meaning 'prince' or 'king'. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the 6th century, associated with Saint 'Brendan' the Navigator, an Irish monk who embarked on a legendary voyage across the Atlantic.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Brendan
Brendon
Brennan
Brennen
Popularity of Brendan
Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Brendan' has experienced its fair share of ebbs and flows. In the early 20th century, the name was relatively uncommon, but it gained traction in the 1960s and 1970s. This increase in popularity can be attributed to the influence of Irish culture and the growing interest in Irish names during that time.
Brendan currently has 232 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Yandel is slightly more popular than Brendan.

Etymology of Brendan

Linguistically, the name 'Brendan' belongs to the Irish Gaelic language. It has its roots in the Celtic language family, which includes languages such as Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Breton. The name's origin in the Welsh word 'brenin' reflects the historical connections between the Celtic-speaking peoples of Ireland and Wales.

Cultural Significance of Brendan

The name 'Brendan' holds particular significance in Irish culture. Saint 'Brendan', the namesake of the name, is revered as one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. He is known for his legendary voyage, which is detailed in the ancient Irish text 'Navigatio Sancti 'Brendan'i Abbatis' (Voyage of Saint 'Brendan' the Abbot). This tale of exploration and adventure has captivated the imaginations of many throughout history.