Brendan

boyIrishChristian

Brendan is a Christian boy name of Irish origin, meaning “Prince”.

MeaningPrince
GenderBoy
OriginIrish
PronunciationBREN-dun
TraditionChristian
Used inIreland, United States, Australia, Canada

Meaning and origin of Brendan

Brendan is the English form of the Irish Breandan, from older Brenainn, which is usually traced to a Welsh word for 'prince' or 'king'. Its fame comes from Saint Brendan of Clonfert, called the Navigator, a sixth-century monk whose legendary voyage across the Atlantic was told in the medieval Voyage of Saint Brendan. The name has been popular in Ireland for centuries and spread with the Irish diaspora.

Is Brendan a Christian name?

Brendan is a Catholic saint's name; Saint Brendan the Navigator is one of the most beloved early Irish saints and a patron of sailors.

How popular is Brendan?

A classic Irish name, familiar throughout the English-speaking world.

Gifts with the name Brendan

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Spellings and variants of Brendan

BreandanBrendenBrendon

Names similar to Brendan

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Brendan mean?

Brendan means 'Prince'. It is of Irish origin.

Is Brendan a Christian name?

Brendan is a Catholic saint's name; Saint Brendan the Navigator is one of the most beloved early Irish saints and a patron of sailors.

How do you pronounce Brendan?

Brendan is pronounced BREN-dun.

Is Brendan a boy or girl name?

Brendan is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.