Brett Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: Bret /brɛt/
Origin: English; Irish
Meaning: English: dweller by the bridge; Irish: descendant of Breá
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Brett has its origins in the Old Breton name "Bret," which means "a Breton" or "from Brittany." The term "Breton" itself is derived from the Latin "Britannus," referring to the Celtic people of Britain. The name entered the English language through Norman influence after the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where it was adopted as a surname before evolving into a given name.
The transition from a geographical identifier to a personal name reflects the broader practice of using place names as surnames in medieval England. Historically, the name Brett has been associated with various notable figures, particularly during the medieval period.
One significant milestone is its use in the context of the Anglo-Norman nobility, where individuals bearing the name were often linked to the regions of Brittany and its historical ties to England. The name appears in various records from the 12th century onward, indicating its adoption among the English gentry.
Additionally, the name has been borne by several saints and religious figures, contributing to its enduring presence in Christian contexts. Culturally, Brett has been associated with notions of bravery and strength, likely stemming from its connections to the Celtic heritage of the Bretons.
The name's resonance can also be seen in literature and art, where characters named Brett often embody qualities of resilience and loyalty. A diminutive form, "Brettie," has occasionally been used, although it is less common.
Overall, the name Brett carries a rich historical and cultural significance, reflecting its roots in the Celtic and Norman traditions.
Famous people named Brett
Brett Kavanaugh is a lawyer and jurist best known for serving as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and for his previous role as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.
Brett Ratner is a film director and producer best known for directing Rush Hour, X-Men: The Last Stand, and Hercules.
Brett Eldredge is a country music singer and songwriter best known for his hits such as.
Fictional characters named Brett
Brett is a fictional character from the film The Last House on the Left. He is a member of a group of criminals who terrorize a family in their home.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Brett was first seen in the United States in 1926.
Brett has ranked as high as #130 nationally, which occurred in 1986, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
In the past 5 years the name Brett has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Brett (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 16 | |
| CA | 15 | |
| NC | 14 | |
| FL | 11 | |
| MO | 11 | |
| NY | 11 | |
| PA | 10 | |
| OH | 9 | |
| GA | 8 | |
| IL | 8 | |
| TN | 6 | |
| WI | 5 | |
| AL | 5 | |
| OK | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1926 | 5 |
| 1929 | 5 |
| 1932 | 5 |
| 1934 | 5 |
| 1935 | 5 |
| 1937 | 5 |
| 1938 | 8 |
| 1939 | 10 |
| 1940 | 15 |
| 1941 | 18 |
| 1942 | 25 |
| 1943 | 25 |
| 1944 | 18 |
| 1945 | 26 |
| 1946 | 48 |
| 1947 | 94 |
| 1948 | 140 |
| 1949 | 139 |
| 1950 | 215 |
| 1951 | 223 |
| 1952 | 251 |
| 1953 | 265 |
| 1954 | 430 |
| 1955 | 464 |
| 1956 | 393 |
| 1957 | 653 |
| 1958 | 2,135 |
| 1959 | 2,226 |
| 1960 | 2,320 |
| 1961 | 2,067 |
| 1962 | 2,495 |
| 1963 | 2,609 |
| 1964 | 2,551 |
| 1965 | 2,343 |
| 1966 | 2,575 |
| 1967 | 2,790 |
| 1968 | 2,900 |
| 1969 | 3,184 |
| 1970 | 3,370 |
| 1971 | 3,359 |
| 1972 | 3,503 |
| 1973 | 3,031 |
| 1974 | 2,677 |
| 1975 | 2,779 |
| 1976 | 2,417 |
| 1977 | 2,488 |
| 1978 | 2,305 |
| 1979 | 2,997 |
| 1980 | 3,128 |
| 1981 | 3,775 |
| 1982 | 4,026 |
| 1983 | 3,975 |
| 1984 | 4,098 |
| 1985 | 4,328 |
| 1986 | 4,731 |
| 1987 | 4,429 |
| 1988 | 4,375 |
| 1989 | 4,428 |
| 1990 | 4,393 |
| 1991 | 4,152 |
| 1992 | 3,823 |
| 1993 | 3,545 |
| 1994 | 3,435 |
| 1995 | 3,567 |
| 1996 | 3,577 |
| 1997 | 3,268 |
| 1998 | 2,886 |
| 1999 | 2,773 |
| 2000 | 2,383 |
| 2001 | 1,964 |
| 2002 | 1,868 |
| 2003 | 1,614 |
| 2004 | 1,565 |
| 2005 | 1,389 |
| 2006 | 1,082 |
| 2007 | 958 |
| 2008 | 1,070 |
| 2009 | 766 |
| 2010 | 729 |
| 2011 | 510 |
| 2012 | 427 |
| 2013 | 360 |
| 2014 | 386 |
| 2015 | 324 |
| 2016 | 333 |
| 2017 | 315 |
| 2018 | 288 |
| 2019 | 275 |
| 2020 | 241 |
| 2021 | 201 |
| 2022 | 216 |
| 2023 | 187 |
| 2024 | 205 |