Bradley

1. Bradley name meaning and origin

Bradley is an English surname that later evolved into a given name. It derives from the Old English words 'brād' meaning 'broad' or 'wide' and 'lēah' meaning 'clearing' or 'meadow in a forest.' Thus, the original meaning of Bradley referred to someone who lived near a broad clearing or wide meadow. This toponymic surname can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon England, with records of the name appearing as early as the 11th century.

As a given name, Bradley gained popularity primarily in the English-speaking world during the 20th century. Its transition from surname to first name follows a pattern common in English naming traditions, where family surnames are adopted as given names to honor ancestral connections or simply for their appealing sound. The name saw a significant rise in usage in the United States during the 1950s-1970s, peaking in popularity in 1979 when it ranked among the top 40 boys' names. Bradley has maintained its appeal for its strong, classic sound that balances traditionalism with a contemporary feel.

References:

2. Bradley name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Bradley

United States

United Kingdom

Bradley is a traditional English surname that has evolved into a popular given name, primarily used for males in both the United States and the United Kingdom. While the data doesn't provide specific ranking information, Bradley gained significant popularity during the latter half of the 20th century. The name derives from Old English, meaning "broad clearing" or "broad meadow."

Though predominantly masculine, Bradley has occasionally been used as a feminine name in both countries, reflecting the modern trend of surname-to-first-name crossovers. The name evokes a classic yet contemporary feel, maintaining steady usage without experiencing extreme popularity fluctuations that might date it to a specific era.

3. Variations and nicknames of Bradley

The name Bradley originated as an English surname derived from the Old English words 'brad' meaning broad and 'leah' meaning clearing or meadow. Over time, Bradley evolved into a popular given name with several variants across cultures. In British English, the traditional spelling remains Bradley, while Bradlee represents an Americanized variant. Other spelling variations include Bradleigh, which adds a sophisticated flair, and Bradly, a simplified version without the second 'e'. International adaptations have emerged as well, with Brädley appearing in some Scandinavian contexts and Bradli as a modern creative spelling. In different languages and cultures, the name has been adapted as Bradlei and even Braddley, with the doubled 'd' emphasizing the first syllable.

Along with its variants, Bradley has inspired numerous nicknames that range from traditional to creative. The most common diminutive is Brad, which itself became a standalone given name in the 20th century. Affectionate forms include Brady, which has Irish origins but works well as a Bradley nickname, and the playful Bradster. Close friends and family might use more intimate forms like B, B-rad, or simply Rad. For younger Bradleys, childish appellations like Braddie and Lee-lee sometimes emerge. Professional environments might favor the full Bradley, while athletic circles might adopt sportier nicknames like Brads or B-Man. In recent years, some Bradleys have embraced the nickname Ley (pronounced 'lee') or even Adley, derived from the second syllable of their name, showcasing how even traditional names continually evolve in their usage and forms.

4. Best name combinations with Bradley

Middle names that pair well with Bradley:

Bradley James
Bradley Alexander
Bradley Thomas
Bradley William
Bradley Edward
Bradley Michael
Bradley Joseph
Bradley Scott
Bradley Charles
Bradley Robert
Bradley Andrew
Bradley Christopher
Bradley Daniel
Bradley Matthew
Bradley Samuel
Bradley Jonathan
Bradley Arthur
Bradley Benjamin
Bradley Nathaniel
Bradley Harrison

Names that go well when Bradley is used as a middle name:

Alexander Bradley
William Bradley
James Bradley
Thomas Bradley
Michael Bradley
Christopher Bradley
Jonathan Bradley
Charles Bradley
Harrison Bradley
Nathaniel Bradley
Edward Bradley
Benjamin Bradley
Matthew Bradley
Samuel Bradley
Theodore Bradley
Richard Bradley
Lawrence Bradley
Vincent Bradley
Elliot Bradley
Maxwell Bradley

5. Numerology of Bradley name

In Pythagorean numerology, each letter corresponds to a specific number:

1: A, J, S
2: B, K, T
3: C, L, U
4: D, M, V
5: E, N, W
6: F, O, X
7: G, P, Y
8: H, Q, Z
9: I, R

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

2 + 9 + 1 + 4 + 3 + 5 + 7 = 31 = 3 + 1 = 4

The Destiny Number 4 indicates a practical, methodical, and disciplined nature. In career, you excel in structured environments requiring attention to detail and organization. You build solid foundations and value stability. In relationships, you're loyal and dependable, seeking partners who appreciate your reliability. You may need to watch for rigidity or being overly practical.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Using vowels only (A, E): 1 + 5 = 6

The Soul Urge Number 6 reveals your inner desire for harmony, balance, and nurturing. You deeply value family and community, with a natural inclination toward caregiving roles. In career, you're drawn to helping professions or positions that allow you to improve others' lives. In relationships, you're loving and responsible but may need to guard against self-sacrifice or becoming overly protective.

Personality Number:

Using consonants only (B, R, D, L, Y): 2 + 9 + 4 + 3 + 7 = 25 = 2 + 5 = 7

The Personality Number 7 shows how others perceive you:

as analytical, thoughtful, and somewhat reserved. You present as intellectual with a philosophical approach to life. In career, you're seen as thoughtful and studious, excelling in research or specialized knowledge. In relationships, you may appear mysterious or private initially, taking time to open up. Others respect your wisdom but might find you difficult to know deeply.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Bradley name in pop culture

Name

Description

Bradley Cooper

Award-winning American actor known for films like 'A Star Is Born', 'Silver Linings Playbook', and 'American Sniper'

Colonel Bradley

Character played by Omar Bradley in the 1970 war film 'Patton', depicting the real-life WWII general

Brad Majors

Character in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show', played by Barry Bostwick, whose full name is Bradley Majors

Bradley Jackson

Fictional character portrayed by Reese Witherspoon in the Apple TV+ drama series 'The Morning Show'

Bradley Fine

Spy character played by Jude Law in the 2015 comedy film 'Spy' starring Melissa McCarthy

7. Famous people named Bradley

Name

Description

Bradley Cooper

American actor and filmmaker known for roles in 'Silver Linings Playbook,' 'American Sniper,' and 'A Star Is Born,' which he also directed

Bradley Whitford

Emmy Award-winning American actor known for his roles in 'The West Wing,' 'Get Out,' and 'The Handmaid's Tale'

Bradley Walsh

British actor, comedian, television presenter, and former professional footballer who hosts 'The Chase' and starred in 'Doctor Who'

Bradley James

English actor best known for portraying King Arthur in the BBC television series 'Merlin'

Bradley Wiggins

British former professional road and track cyclist who won the Tour de France and multiple Olympic gold medals

Bradley Beal

NBA basketball player who has been a multiple-time All-Star while playing for the Washington Wizards and Phoenix Suns

Bradley Nowell

Late American musician and lead vocalist of the ska punk band Sublime until his death in 1996

Milton Bradley

Former Major League Baseball outfielder who played for multiple teams including the Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs

Bradley Simpson

British singer and guitarist, lead vocalist of pop rock band The Vamps

F. Bradley Wright

American sociologist and author known for his research on religion and his books including 'Christians Are Hate-Filled Hypocrites...and Other Lies You've Been Told'

8. Names similar to Bradley

Like Bradley ? What about:

Golden

Ella

Charlee

Elaine

Benet

Gladwin

Caden

Fenton

Campbell

Genya

Colbert

Camille

Charlette

Barret

Caleb

Carter

Cayden

Danah

Ahjin

Ainsley

Common sibling names

Sisters

Audrey

Charlie

Carter

Ellis

Dana

Mary

Ella

Elise

Charlee

Heather

Elaine

Ainsley

Ashley

Camille

Bella

Leslie

Annie

Marlowe

Hazel

Darcy

Brothers

Caleb

Devon

Caden

Edward

Dalton

Eli

Aiden

Bodie

Declan

Haris

Edmund

Cayden

Darcy

Caiden

Nelson

Winston

Darwin

Colton

Carter

Edwin

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Bradley

1. Bradley name meaning and origin

References:

2. Bradley name popularity

3. Variations and nicknames of Bradley

4. Best name combinations with Bradley

Middle names that pair well with Bradley:

Names that go well when Bradley is used as a middle name:

5. Numerology of Bradley name

In Pythagorean numerology, each letter corresponds to a specific number:

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

The Personality Number 7 shows how others perceive you:

6. Bradley name in pop culture

7. Famous people named Bradley

8. Names similar to Bradley

Like Bradley ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Bradley

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