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Bruno Boy

Popularity: #577 · Trend: → Stable

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: BROO-no //ˈbruː.noʊ//

Origin: German; Italian; Latin

Meaning: German: brown; Latin: armored

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Bruno has its roots in the Germanic languages, deriving from the Old High German word "brun", which means "brown". This etymology reflects a common practice in early Germanic cultures of using colors as descriptors in personal names.

The name was introduced to the Latin-speaking world through the Latinized form "Brunus", which was used in various medieval texts. As the name transitioned into different languages, it maintained its association with the color brown, symbolizing earthiness and strength.

Historically, the name Bruno gained prominence in the early Middle Ages, particularly with the influence of Saint Bruno of Cologne, who founded the Carthusian order in the late 11th century. His canonization in 1623 further solidified the name's significance within Christian contexts.

The name appears in various forms across Europe, including "Brun" in French and "Brunetto" in Italian, showcasing its adaptability and enduring appeal through the centuries. The name was also borne by several notable figures, including Bruno of Würzburg, a bishop in the 11th century, and Bruno Latour, a prominent contemporary philosopher.

Culturally, the name Bruno has been associated with qualities such as bravery and resilience, often linked to the earthy connotations of its meaning. In literature and folklore, characters named Bruno have frequently embodied these traits, reinforcing the name's positive associations.

The diminutive form "Bruno" has also been used affectionately in various cultures, although it is primarily recognized in its full form. Overall, the name Bruno carries a rich historical and cultural legacy, reflecting its Germanic origins and the influences of Christian tradition.

Famous people named Bruno

Bruno Mars is a singer, songwriter, and music producer best known for Just the Way You Are, Uptown Funk, and 24K Magic.

Bruno Bettelheim was a psychologist best known for his work on child psychology and the interpretation of fairy tales.

Bruno Ganz was an actor best known for his roles in Downfall, Wings of Desire, and The American Friend.

Bruno Tonioli is a dancer, choreographer, and television personality best known for his work on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing with the Stars.

Bruno Kirby was an actor best known for his roles in When Harry Met Sally..., Good Morning, Vietnam, and City Slickers.

Bruno Mars is a musician best known for his hit songs and dynamic performances.

Fictional characters named Bruno

Bruno is a fictional character from the animated film Encanto. He is the misunderstood member of the Madrigal family who has the ability to see the future.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Bruno was first seen in the United States in 1880.

Bruno has ranked as high as #956 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, New York, Texas, and Pennsylvania.

In the past 5 years the name Bruno has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Bruno (2024)

State Births Share
CA 64
20%
TX 62
20%
FL 33
11%
NY 24
8%
AZ 16
5%
NC 14
4%
IL 13
4%
GA 12
4%
OH 10
3%
VA 10
3%
PA 9
3%
WA 9
3%
SC 8
3%
MA 7
2%
OR 6
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18807
18816
18825
18847
18857
18865
188712
18886
18897
189010
189115
189214
189310
189418
189514
189613
189712
189817
18997
190026
190113
190215
19039
190418
190523
190619
190720
190827
190933
191054
191154
1912127
1913180
1914219
1915348
1916353
1917328
1918348
1919261
1920292
1921311
1922261
1923286
1924261
1925211
1926209
1927190
1928171
1929148
1930160
1931121
193298
1933111
1934112
193587
193685
193780
193878
193954
194068
194190
194279
194363
194467
194558
194670
194781
194849
194973
195071
195183
195283
195388
195470
195573
195693
1957108
195888
195993
1960106
1961105
196288
1963105
196485
196586
196678
196789
196896
196950
197076
197176
197278
197363
197468
197541
197652
197743
197866
197957
198064
198165
198276
198377
198458
198567
198664
198762
198877
198999
1990115
199194
199282
1993109
199494
1995105
1996125
1997118
1998112
1999119
2000156
2001160
2002220
2003224
2004229
2005239
2006258
2007263
2008274
2009245
2010297
2011261
2012284
2013379
2014381
2015349
2016385
2017404
2018379
2019343
2020352
2021406
2022448
2023373
2024381