Meaning: Its source is an Ancient Celtic expression meaning "Exalted and high-minded."

Languages: This boy's name is used in English.

Nicknames: Brye and Bri

Alternative Spellings: Brian and Bryen

Popularity: The name Bryan ranked 64th in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of 2000-2003 Social Security Administration statistics and 102nd in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.

This name is highly rated both on the 1990 U.S. Census list and in state data recording the most popular baby names.

Narrative: This name is associated, in history and legend, with Brian Boru, high king of Ireland in the 10th century.

Brian united his island nation, giving the people a welcome respite from warfare. For a time, arts and culture flourished.

Of course, there were those who resented Brian and his power. Among these were the Danes, one of the groups Brian suppressed in his fight for the throne. In league with other disgruntled factions, they attempted to depose him.

Brian's forces triumphed at the Battle of Clontarf, driving the Danes out for good, but it was a Pyrrhic victory. Not only were Brian's son and grandson cut down, but Brian Boru himself was numbered among the slain.