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Bradford Boy

Popularity: #883 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationBRAD-ford / ˈbræd.fɔrd

English

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

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

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)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
50%
MA 5
50%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18805
18855
18885
18895
18919
18937
18945
189511
189613
18975
18989
190013
19015
19029
19048
190511
19065
19079
190811
190915
19108
191122
191243
191338
191450
191569
191672
191772
191870
191969
192074
192185
192271
192373
192476
192576
192698
192796
192885
192984
193088
193187
193286
193382
193496
193592
1936102
1937130
1938107
1939128
1940126
1941135
1942159
1943173
1944191
1945184
1946251
1947327
1948376
1949496
1950576
1951575
1952656
1953780
1954773
1955699
1956720
1957675
1958621
1959617
1960668
1961579
1962534
1963611
1964602
1965581
1966525
1967558
1968535
1969601
1970612
1971570
1972469
1973494
1974602
1975555
1976593
1977603
1978599
1979614
1980630
1981599
1982561
1983480
1984474
1985453
1986387
1987441
1988368
1989353
1990304
1991277
1992270
1993267
1994243
1995216
1996211
1997177
1998176
1999151
2000123
2001103
2002125
2003102
200499
200597
200695
200799
200857
200976
201078
201173
201281
201364
201477
201563
201668
201770
201867
201948
202050
202149
202241
202349
202441