Brady Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Brady come from? What does the surname Brady mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Brady and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Bradeen, Bradish, Brawdy, Bready
Surname Brady Origin: What does the last name Brady mean?
The surname Brady is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Brádaigh or Mac Brádaigh, meaning "spirited; broad." YourRoots data indicates that Brady first appeared in records in the United Kingdom in the early 12th century. The surname remained closely associated with the UK until the 16th century when it saw a notable increase in family records in Ireland. By the 17th century, the United States also began to appear in records, showing the expansion of the Brady surname over the centuries.
YourRoots data confirms Brady's presence in the United Kingdom since the early 12th century, with a significant increase of family records in Ireland by the 16th century. The United States started appearing in records by the 17th century, indicating the surname's global spread. Today, the Brady surname is prominent in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting its widespread presence across various regions worldwide.
Brady Last Name History: Where did the last name Brady come from?
Origin of Brady Surname: Where does the last name Brady originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Brady first appeared in records from the United Kingdom in the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the precise “Brady” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Brady: What does the Brady surname history look like in the early days?
The “Brady” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 12th through the 16th century. However, in the 16th century, YourRoots data shows a notable increase in Brady family records in Ireland. By the 17th century, the United States also began to appear in the records, indicating an expansion of the Brady surname over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Brady surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the Brady surname grew significantly in the United States, surpassing both the United Kingdom and Ireland. This trend continued into the 19th and 20th centuries, with the United States holding the greatest number of records. The “Brady” surname remains prominent in the United States today, but it is also present in other regions worldwide. It appears in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting its global spread.
Explore Brady last name heritage and Brady surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Brady Surame?
Wayne Brady
Wayne Alphonso Brady (born Jun 2, 1972) is an American comedian, actor, and singer. He is known for his roles on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, The Wayne Brady Show, Let's Make a Deal, and performances in Kinky Boots and Hamilton. Brady has won five Emmy Awards and been nominated for two Grammy Awards.
Paul Brady
Paul Joseph Brady (born 19 May 1947) is an Irish singer-songwriter and musician known for his folk and pop music. He gained popularity for his Irish traditional music before transitioning to a more rock-inspired style with politically charged lyrics. His notable songs include "The Island" and "Paradise Is Here."
Alice Brady
Alice Mary Rose Brady (Nov 2, 1892 - Oct 28, 1939) was an influential American actress of stage and film. Known for her work in classics like "My Man Godfrey" and "In Old Chicago," she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Brady's legacy lives on in Hollywood history.
William J. Brady
William J. Brady (August 16, 1829 – April 1, 1878) was an Irish-born American soldier and politician known for his role as sheriff during the Lincoln County Wars in New Mexico. He was tragically murdered by the Lincoln County Regulators and Billy the Kid at the age of 48.
George F. Brady
George Patrick Brady (September 7, 1867 - November 6, 1903) was a heroic sailor in the United States Navy. He received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Spanish-American War. Brady's actions on the USS Winslow saved the vessel during the Battle of Cardenas.
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