Find out how popular the first name Brookes has been for the last 45 years (from 1979 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Brookes by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Brookes is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 71% of people named Brookes being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Brookes.

The history of the first name Brookes

The name Brookes is believed to have its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "broc," which means "a small stream or brook." This suggests that the name may have initially been used to describe someone who lived near or worked with a small body of water such as a brook or stream.

During the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain, which lasted from the 5th to the 11th centuries, names were often derived from physical features or occupations. The name Brookes likely emerged as a descriptive name during this time, given its connection to the word "broc."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Brookes can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of landowners and their estates commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. This suggests that the name was in use among the Anglo-Saxon population before the Norman Conquest of 1066.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Brookes. One of the most famous was Sir John Brookes (1554-1637), an English politician and judge who served as Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas from 1625 to 1637.

Another notable figure was Henry Brookes (1706-1783), an English architect and surveyor who designed several notable buildings in London, including the Pantheon on Oxford Street.

In the literary world, Maria Gowen Brookes (1795-1888) was an American writer and poet who published numerous works, including the acclaimed novel "Zephyr" in 1833.

Sir William Brookes (1805-1865) was an English civil engineer and inventor who made significant contributions to the development of the modern steam locomotive.

Lastly, Gwendoline Brookes (1899-1982) was a British artist and sculptor known for her works depicting dancers and figures in motion.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Brookes throughout history, each leaving their mark in various fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of human endeavor.

Data source

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 Brookes was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Brookes, please contact us.

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