Bradford Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationBRAD-ford / ˈbræd.fɔrdEnglish
Meaning
Broad ford
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Bradford has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "brad," meaning broad, and "ford," referring to a river crossing. This etymology suggests a geographical significance, indicating a wide river crossing, which is a common feature in place names throughout England. The name likely evolved from the Old English "Bradeford," which was used to denote various locations in England, particularly in Yorkshire and West Midlands. The transition into the modern form "Bradford" occurred as the English language evolved, particularly during the Middle English period, when many place names were standardized and adopted as surnames and given names.
Historically, the name Bradford is associated with several notable locations, most prominently the city of Bradford in West Yorkshire, which gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century as a center for textile manufacturing. The name has also been borne by various historical figures and local leaders, contributing to its significance in English history. The use of Bradford as a given name can be traced back to the 19th century, when surnames began to be adopted as first names, reflecting a trend in naming practices during that era.
Culturally, the name Bradford carries connotations of strength and stability, likely due to its association with enduring geographical features and historical significance. It has been used in literature and popular culture, often evoking images of industriousness and community. The name's connection to various places and its historical roots lend it a sense of heritage, making it a name that resonates with notions of place and identity. While diminutive forms like "Brad" have emerged, the name Bradford itself remains a testament to its rich linguistic and cultural lineage.
Trend Summary
Bradford has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable decline in usage since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Brad
- Bradley
International Variants
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Famous people named Bradford
Bradford Anderson is an actor best known for General Hospital, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, and The Last House on the Left.
Bradford Cox is a musician best known for his work with Deerhunter and Atlas Sound.
Bradford Smith is a businessman best known for being the co-founder of the software company, Microsoft.
Fictional characters named Bradford
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Bradford was first seen in the United States in 1880. Bradford has ranked as high as #502 nationally, which occurred in 1953, and has been most popular in Massachusetts, California, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Bradford has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Bradford (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 5 | |
MA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 5 |
1885 | 5 |
1888 | 5 |
1889 | 5 |
1891 | 9 |
1893 | 7 |
1894 | 5 |
1895 | 11 |
1896 | 13 |
1897 | 5 |
1898 | 9 |
1900 | 13 |
1901 | 5 |
1902 | 9 |
1904 | 8 |
1905 | 11 |
1906 | 5 |
1907 | 9 |
1908 | 11 |
1909 | 15 |
1910 | 8 |
1911 | 22 |
1912 | 43 |
1913 | 38 |
1914 | 50 |
1915 | 69 |
1916 | 72 |
1917 | 72 |
1918 | 70 |
1919 | 69 |
1920 | 74 |
1921 | 85 |
1922 | 71 |
1923 | 73 |
1924 | 76 |
1925 | 76 |
1926 | 98 |
1927 | 96 |
1928 | 85 |
1929 | 84 |
1930 | 88 |
1931 | 87 |
1932 | 86 |
1933 | 82 |
1934 | 96 |
1935 | 92 |
1936 | 102 |
1937 | 130 |
1938 | 107 |
1939 | 128 |
1940 | 126 |
1941 | 135 |
1942 | 159 |
1943 | 173 |
1944 | 191 |
1945 | 184 |
1946 | 251 |
1947 | 327 |
1948 | 376 |
1949 | 496 |
1950 | 576 |
1951 | 575 |
1952 | 656 |
1953 | 780 |
1954 | 773 |
1955 | 699 |
1956 | 720 |
1957 | 675 |
1958 | 621 |
1959 | 617 |
1960 | 668 |
1961 | 579 |
1962 | 534 |
1963 | 611 |
1964 | 602 |
1965 | 581 |
1966 | 525 |
1967 | 558 |
1968 | 535 |
1969 | 601 |
1970 | 612 |
1971 | 570 |
1972 | 469 |
1973 | 494 |
1974 | 602 |
1975 | 555 |
1976 | 593 |
1977 | 603 |
1978 | 599 |
1979 | 614 |
1980 | 630 |
1981 | 599 |
1982 | 561 |
1983 | 480 |
1984 | 474 |
1985 | 453 |
1986 | 387 |
1987 | 441 |
1988 | 368 |
1989 | 353 |
1990 | 304 |
1991 | 277 |
1992 | 270 |
1993 | 267 |
1994 | 243 |
1995 | 216 |
1996 | 211 |
1997 | 177 |
1998 | 176 |
1999 | 151 |
2000 | 123 |
2001 | 103 |
2002 | 125 |
2003 | 102 |
2004 | 99 |
2005 | 97 |
2006 | 95 |
2007 | 99 |
2008 | 57 |
2009 | 76 |
2010 | 78 |
2011 | 73 |
2012 | 81 |
2013 | 64 |
2014 | 77 |
2015 | 63 |
2016 | 68 |
2017 | 70 |
2018 | 67 |
2019 | 48 |
2020 | 50 |
2021 | 49 |
2022 | 41 |
2023 | 49 |
2024 | 41 |