Boy · 276th of 16,616
Branden
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
27,831
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1992
Peak Popularity Year
1,160
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Branden stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
Jump to a section
Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Branden originates from Old English and means 'sword' or 'firebrand'. It evolved from the Old Norse name Brandr and became popular as a modern variant in the late 20th century. The name is often associated with strong and dynamic traits. It has no biblical relevance.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈbrændən/
Origin
Old English
Etymology
The name Branden is derived from the Old English word 'brand', meaning 'sword' or 'firebrand'. It may also be linked to the Old Norse name 'Brandr', which has similar connotations.
Meaning
sword, firebrand
Language Evolution
Brandr (Old Norse), Brandon (Middle English), Branden (Modern English)
Historical Usage
Branden gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries, as a modern variant of the more traditional name Brandon.
Variants & Derivatives
Brandon, Brendon, Brenden, Brandi
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, Branden is perceived as a trendy and contemporary name, often associated with a strong and dynamic personality.
Famous People
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins - American playwright, Branden Steineckert - American musician, Branden Grace - South African golfer
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
Geographic charts live in focused views so this report stays readable. Choose the level of detail you need.
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 1,160 peak births in 1992
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Hawaii
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 8 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 8 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 8 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 4925th of 7552 | 35 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 694th of 10718 | 2,257 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 276th of 16616 | 13,984 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 431st of 24088 | 9,887 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 1541st of 23106 | 1,338 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 6624th of 19264 | 108 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 5954th of 27321 | 216 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 33240th of 35406 | 6 |