Rising since 1998, #3,949 for boys today.
Popularity of Brier since 1989
Babies named Brier per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 | 0 |
| 1990s | 61 | 78 |
| 2000s | 82 | 171 |
| 2010s | 129 | 242 |
| 2020s | 67 | 120 |
Meaning & origin
Brier entered the U.S. naming charts in 1991, a relative latecomer among nature-inspired names. Its usage has been on an upward trajectory since 1998, steadily gaining visibility though never breaking into the top ranks. The name reached its peak popularity in 2016, when it was most widely chosen. As of the latest data in 2025, about 1 in 63,262 newborns are named Brier, placing it at rank 3,949. While not among the most common names, its consistent rise over the past two decades reflects a broader trend toward earthy, one-syllable names for both boys and girls. Brier remains primarily concentrated in certain regions, though it has not yet appeared in any top state lists.
Brier is derived from the Scottish and northern English surname, itself from the Middle English 'brere' meaning 'thorny bush'. It emerged as a given name in the late 20th century, likely influenced by the similar-sounding Briar and the fashion for nature-inspired names.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bri
Variants: Briar
Sibling names for Brier
Names that share Brier's style, for a brother or sister.
