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Brantley Unisex

Popularity: #428 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationBRANT-lee / ˈbræntli

English; Old Norse

Meaning

English: 'sword'; Old Norse: 'brave'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Brantley has its roots in Old English, deriving from the elements "brant," meaning "steep" or "slope," and "leah," which translates to "woodland" or "clearing." This etymological combination suggests a geographical feature, possibly referring to a steep clearing in a wooded area. The name likely evolved through various forms, with the earliest instances appearing in medieval England, where it would have been used as a surname before transitioning into a given name. The spelling and pronunciation have undergone changes over the centuries, influenced by regional dialects and linguistic shifts in the English language.

Historically, surnames like Brantley were often derived from the landscape or occupation of the individuals, and by the 19th century, the name began to be adopted more frequently as a first name. Notable historical milestones include its appearance in various records and documents throughout England, particularly in the context of land ownership and familial lineage. The name may also be linked to notable figures in English history, although specific references to prominent individuals named Brantley are less documented compared to other names.

Culturally, names derived from nature and geography, such as Brantley, often carry connotations of strength and resilience, reflecting the characteristics of the landscapes they describe. This connection to the natural world has contributed to the name's enduring appeal over time. Additionally, diminutive forms or variations, while not as commonly noted, may include "Bran" or "Brant," which have been used in various contexts. Overall, Brantley encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage and historical significance, representing a connection to the English landscape and its cultural narratives.

Trend Summary

Brantley has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States since the early 2000s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Brant
  • Brantley

International Variants

Famous people named Brantley

Brantley Gilbert is a country music singer and songwriter best known for Halfway to Heaven, Just as I Am, and The Devil Don't Sleep.

Brantley Dunaway is a professional golfer best known for competing in various PGA Tour events.

Fictional characters named Brantley

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Brantley was first seen in the United States in 1893. Brantley has ranked as high as #210 nationally, which occurred in 2014, and has been most popular in Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Texas, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Brantley has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Brantley (2024)

StateBirthsShare
FL 46
8%
OH 44
7%
TX 40
7%
AL 33
6%
PA 31
5%
GA 30
5%
NC 29
5%
MO 28
5%
KY 27
5%
TN 25
4%
NY 23
4%
IN 22
4%
IL 20
3%
SC 19
3%
WI 18
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18935
18945
19106
19129
19147
191511
19168
19175
191812
19198
192010
19219
19227
192313
19247
192513
192616
192710
19285
19299
193011
193110
19326
193314
19348
193514
193615
193710
193810
193911
194013
194112
19429
194312
194410
194510
19469
194714
194818
194912
195015
195112
195217
195310
195410
19559
19569
195719
195824
195916
196019
196116
196216
196318
196415
196521
196613
19678
196828
196923
197024
197123
197224
197324
197431
197530
197615
197728
197836
197934
198037
198129
198238
198326
198435
198536
198640
198744
198896
198987
199063
199162
199256
199367
199473
199564
199666
199785
199875
199972
200086
200186
200267
200394
200476
200594
200694
200799
200899
2009137
2010311
2011991
20122,588
20133,193
20143,353
20153,306
20162,614
20172,338
20182,107
20191,666
20201,579
20211,302
20221,067
2023889
2024640