Brian

Brian is a masculine given name of Irish origin. It derives from the Old Irish Brían, probably linked to Bríg or Brígh, with connotations such as noble, strength, or exalted. The name became well known in Ireland through Brian Boru, the High King who united much of the island around the turn of the first millennium. Over time, Brian spread to England and other lands, becoming a common given name in many English-speaking countries.

Modern usage intensified in the United States and the United Kingdom during the 20th century, where Brian consistently ranked among familiar male names. It is valued for its simple pronunciation and straightforward spelling. Spelling variants include Bryan and Brien; Brion is less common, and Brían is an Irish form.

Notable people with the name include Brian Boru, the medieval Irish king; Brian May, guitarist of the rock band Queen; Brian Eno, musician and producer; Brian Cox, the physicist and science communicator; Brian Cox, the actor known for various film and television roles; Brian Kilmeade, television host and author; and Brian Wilson, musician of the Beach Boys.

In popular culture, the name Brian appears in literature and film and is the name of the central character in Monty Python's Life of Brian.