Find out how popular the first name Brence has been for the last 1 years (from 1979 to 1979) and learn more about the meaning and history.
A masculine name of uncertain origin and meaning.
Based on the last 1 years of data, Brence is exclusively a male name.
For the most recent data in 1979, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Brence.
Year | Male Count | Female Count |
---|---|---|
1979 | 5 | 0 |
The given name Brence is an uncommon one, and its origins are somewhat obscure. It is believed to have originated from the Brittonic Celtic language spoken in parts of what is now Great Britain and Brittany, France during the ancient and medieval periods.
Some linguistic scholars suggest that Brence may be derived from the Proto-Celtic root *brenk-, meaning "to make a noise or creak." This could indicate that the name was originally associated with qualities such as loudness, strength, or perhaps even a particular occupation or trade involving noise or creaking sounds.
While there are no definitive records of the name appearing in ancient texts or religious scriptures, a few notable individuals throughout history have borne the name Brence.
One of the earliest recorded instances is Brence of Cumbria, a minor nobleman who lived in the 9th century CE in what is now northwestern England. He is mentioned in a few local chronicles from the time, though not much is known about his life or deeds.
Several centuries later, in the 1300s, a Brence de Montfort was a knight and minor landowner in Normandy, France. He is briefly mentioned in a few legal documents and land records from the period.
In the 16th century, Brence Hawkins was a sailor and explorer from England who accompanied Sir Francis Drake on his circumnavigation of the globe from 1577 to 1580. Hawkins kept a journal of the voyage, which has provided valuable insights into the expedition.
During the 17th century, Brence Williamson was a prominent merchant and trader in the British colony of Virginia. He played a role in the early economic development of the region and is mentioned in various colonial records from the time.
In the late 18th century, Brence Austen was a minor English poet and writer who published a few collections of verse and prose works. While not a major literary figure, his works provide a glimpse into the literary culture of the era.
These are just a few examples of individuals named Brence throughout history, though the name has remained relatively rare and its origins and deeper meanings remain somewhat enigmatic.
The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.
The history and meaning of the name Brence was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.
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"Brence first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on July 3, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/brence-meaning-and-history/.
"Brence first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/brence-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 3 July, 2025
Brence first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/brence-meaning-and-history/.
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