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Braden

Boy name · 20 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Braden: 20 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 5 births in 2000.

Braden is a name with deep roots in Irish and Scottish Gaelic, derived from the surname Ó Bradáin, meaning "descendant of Bradán," where *bradán* translates to "salmon." In Celtic mythology, the salmon was a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, giving the name a quietly learned air. While no single famous Braden dominates the history books, the name has gained modern visibility through actors like Braden Holtby, the celebrated NHL goaltender, and Braden Looper, a former Major League Baseball pitcher. The name also shares its root with the River Braden in Ireland, a small waterway whose name echoes the same salmon connection. A popular variant, Bradan, is sometimes used to lean more directly into the Gaelic spelling, while the similar-sounding Brayden has become a widespread alternative in recent decades.

Boy 6 of 52 years

Peak year
20005 babies
Latest (2020)
#7113 babies
Total births
20since 1997
5-year trend
▲ 13%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2000 · 5
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).