All about the name
Bradely
Male
« Bradley is an English name derived from the Old English word "brad", meaning "broad" or "wide". Initially used as a surname, it gained popularity as a given name in the 17th century and has since been associated with notable figures like Sir Thomas Bradley and General Omar N. Bradley. Today, Bradley remains a popular choice for boys' names worldwide. »
#20362
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Bradley is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "brad" meaning "broad" or "wide". It was originally used as a surname, referring to someone who lived near a broad river or meadow. The name Bradley has been in use for centuries and has become quite popular in recent years.
The earliest record of the name Bradley as a given name is believed to be from the 17th century, although it may have been used before that time. It was initially more common as a surname, but over time, it began to be used more frequently as a first name for boys.
Historically, the name Bradley has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. For example, Sir Thomas Bradley was an English politician and merchant who lived in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He served as Mayor of London and was known for his support of the wool trade. Additionally, Bradley Fighting Vehicle is a type of armored fighting vehicle used by the US military, named after General Omar N. Bradley, a highly decorated American soldier who fought in World War II.
Today, Bradley remains a popular choice for parents naming their sons. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 names for boys in the United States since the early 20th century. The name is also popular in other English-speaking countries such as Canada and Australia.
In terms of its meaning, the name Bradley evokes images of expansiveness and openness, reflecting its original association with broad rivers or meadows. It is a strong and distinctive name that has stood the test of time, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a classic yet unique name for their son.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Bradely since 1880
Total births
60
Total since 1880
Peak year
1969
11 births
in 1989
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years