Bruce
Bruce is a boys' name of French origin meaning “the willowlands.” It ranked #536 in the United States in 2025. A Scottish surname of Norman origin, from the place name Brix in Manche, Normandy.
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how do you pronounce Bruce?
BROOS
where does the name Bruce come from?
From the Norman place name Brix, in Manche, Normandy, of disputed meaning; it is glossed as the willowlands.
Its most famous bearer is Robert the Bruce (Robert I of Scotland), who secured Scottish independence at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. The name carries a strong, dependable character.
how popular is this name?
Bruce has appeared in the US top 1,000 in 146 years since 1880. It peaked at #25 in 1952, and ranked #536 in 2025.
See the milestone years
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2025 | #536 |
| 2024 | #536 |
| 2023 | #542 |
| 2022 | #563 |
| 2021 | #535 |
| 2020 | #498 |
| 2019 | #471 |
| 2018 | #473 |
| 2017 | #429 |
| 2016 | #440 |
| 2010 | #533 |
| 2000 | #432 |
| 1990 | #239 |
| 1980 | #157 |
| 1970 | #94 |
| 1960 | #39 |
| 1952 | #25 |
| 1950 | #26 |
| 1940 | #55 |
| 1930 | #109 |
| 1920 | #149 |
| 1910 | #239 |
| 1900 | #210 |
| 1890 | #216 |
| 1880 | #241 |
Source: SSA National Baby Names Dataset (through 2025). Years absent from the table are years Bruce fell outside the top 1,000.
the history of Bruce
The name came to Scotland with the Normans and became an established Scottish surname through the descendants of King Robert the Bruce (1274-1329). It is now a common given name for boys.
who are famous people named Bruce?
- Robert the Bruce (King of Scotland)
- Bruce Lee (martial artist and actor)
- Bruce Springsteen (musician)
- Bruce Willis (actor)
what names go well with Bruce?
Sibling names that share Bruce's rhythm and register without echoing it too closely.
quick answers about Bruce
What does the name Bruce mean?
Bruce means “the willowlands”.
What is the origin of the name Bruce?
Bruce comes from the French naming tradition.
How popular is the name Bruce?
Bruce ranked #536 in the US in 2025, according to Social Security data. Its best year was 1952, at #25, and it has spent 146 years in the top 1,000 since 1880.
Is Bruce a boy or girl name?
Bruce is primarily a boys' name.
How do you pronounce Bruce?
Bruce is pronounced BROOS, with 1 syllable.
Last updated · Curated by HushName editorial
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