Rising since 1991, #4,857 for boys today.
Popularity of Bright since 1917
Babies named Bright per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 0 | 6 |
| 1920s | 0 | 13 |
| 1930s | 0 | 5 |
| 1940s | 0 | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 | 31 |
| 2000s | 0 | 59 |
| 2010s | 15 | 156 |
| 2020s | 28 | 131 |
Meaning & origin
Bright is a modern virtue name that directly evokes qualities of light and intelligence. First recorded in the United States in 1917, it remained rare for decades. Beginning in 1991, its usage began a steady climb, and it reached its peak popularity in 2024, with the highest number of recorded births. As of 2025, the name ranks 4,857th, with approximately 1 in 85,404 boys receiving it. While not appearing in any state's top lists, Bright reflects a trend toward transparent, positive-meaning names. Its straightforward etymology and clean sound make it an accessible choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar word name.
Bright is derived from the Old English word 'beorht,' meaning bright or shining. Originally used as a descriptive nickname or given name, it has been used as a given name since the early 20th century, often as a virtue name suggesting intelligence or radiance.
“Bright” around the world
Where Bright lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Sibling names for Bright
Names that share Bright's style, for a brother or sister.
