Bruce

boyNorman French

Bruce is a boy name of Norman French, via Scotland origin, meaning “From Brix in Normandy”.

MeaningFrom Brix in Normandy
GenderBoy
OriginNorman French, via Scotland
PronunciationBROOSS
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inScotland, United States, Australia, Canada

Meaning and origin of Bruce

Bruce is a Scottish surname that came from the Norman family de Brus, probably named after the town of Brix in Normandy. Its most famous bearer is Robert the Bruce, king of Scots, who led Scotland in the wars of independence in the early fourteenth century. As a first name it became popular in the twentieth century across the English-speaking world, with bearers like Bruce Lee and Bruce Springsteen.

Is Bruce a religious name?

Bruce has no religious background; it is a Scottish family name used as a first name.

How popular is Bruce?

Very common in the mid twentieth century and less used for babies now.

Gifts with the name Bruce

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Spellings and variants of Bruce

Brus

Names similar to Bruce

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Bruce mean?

Bruce means 'From Brix in Normandy'. It is of Norman French, via Scotland origin.

Does Bruce have a religious meaning?

Bruce has no religious background; it is a Scottish family name used as a first name.

How do you pronounce Bruce?

Bruce is pronounced BROOSS.

Is Bruce a boy or girl name?

Bruce is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.