Rising since 1986, #2,421 for boys today.
Popularity of Bram since 1948
Babies named Bram per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 11 |
| 1960s | 26 |
| 1970s | 103 |
| 1980s | 99 |
| 1990s | 212 |
| 2000s | 339 |
| 2010s | 495 |
| 2020s | 247 |
Meaning & origin
Bram is a concise, strong-sounding name that began its journey as a Dutch short form of Abraham but has gained traction as an independent given name, especially in the United States. According to Social Security data, it first appeared on American birth records in 1948 and has been on a steady upward climb since 1986. In 2025, it ranked 2421st nationally, with roughly 1 in 30,501 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak year in the U.S. so far was 2016. The name is most popular in Utah, reflecting a preference for sturdy, classic-but-compact names in that region. Bram's biblical roots via Abraham give it a traditional resonance, but its brevity and modern feel appeal to parents seeking a name that is both grounded and fresh. Its rising trajectory suggests it will continue to gain visibility without becoming overly common.
Bram originated as a Dutch short form of Abraham, a biblical name from Hebrew 'Avraham', traditionally interpreted as 'father of many nations' or 'exalted father'. It became an independent given name in the Netherlands and later spread to other Dutch-speaking regions. In recent decades, it has also been adopted in English-speaking countries, often as a standalone name rather than a nickname.
Where Bram is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Bram
Names that share Bram's style, for a brother or sister.
