Brian vs Ellis

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Brian

Boy #301 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"noble, high"

Origin: Celtic

Cultural Roots

Irish English American Scottish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#301
Total SSA Count
1,111
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Bri, B, Bry

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
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Ellis

Boy #273 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"benevolent, kind"

Origin: Welsh from Hebrew Elijah

Cultural Roots

Welsh English American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#273
Total SSA Count
1,250
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
El

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Ellis →

Popularity Comparison

Brian Rank #301
Ellis Rank #273

Ellis is more popular, ranked #273 vs #301 for Brian.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Brian ___

  • Brian Brian James
  • Brian Brian Michael
  • Brian Brian Patrick
  • Brian Brian Thomas
  • Brian Brian Joseph

Ellis ___

  • Ellis James
  • Ellis Thomas
  • Ellis Reid
  • Ellis Cole
  • Ellis Grant
  • Ellis Finn

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Brian

Kevin Patrick Sean Colleen Megan

If you choose Ellis

Wren Nora Iris Cora Theo

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brian or Ellis more popular?

Ellis is more popular, ranked #273 compared to Brian at #301 in the United States.

What do Brian and Ellis mean?

Brian means "noble, high" (Celtic origin). Ellis means "benevolent, kind" (Welsh from Hebrew Elijah origin).

Are Brian and Ellis boy or girl names?

Brian is primarily a boy name. Ellis is primarily a boy name.

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