Declining since 1997, #8,910 for boys today.
Popularity of Bracken since 1971
Babies named Bracken per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 46 |
| 1980s | 70 |
| 1990s | 156 |
| 2000s | 181 |
| 2010s | 140 |
| 2020s | 25 |
Meaning & origin
Bracken is a distinctive nature name that entered U.S. records in 1971. It reached its peak popularity in 1998, though even then usage was modest. Since 1997, its trajectory has been falling, reflecting the broader ebb and flow of unusual botanical names. As of 2025, Bracken ranks 8,910th nationally, with an occurrence of 1 in 213,510 births. Its rarity appeals to parents seeking a name that feels both grounded and uncommon, reminiscent of mossy woodlands and open heaths. While it has not appeared among top states, its appeal is likely strongest in regions where ferns are a familiar part of the landscape.
Bracken is taken directly from the English word for a type of fern, derived from Middle English 'braken', of Scandinavian origin. It has been used as a given name for boys since the late 20th century, following a trend of nature-based names.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Brack
Sibling names for Bracken
Names that share Bracken's style, for a brother or sister.
