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Original poster

What can Bran be short for?

32 replies

Radish9 · 08/09/2014 10:31

Hi everyone. We're expecting our 3rd baby in the new year, and are struggling with names big time. My DH considers my suggestions silly, and I think his are boring!
He vaguely suggested Brandon; we both like Bran (and have read the Game of Thrones books!) but Brandon feels a bit 'Jayden' to me. Can anyone suggest another name that can shorten to Bran? I know it can be used as a name in its own right, but it feels unfinished to me.
Many thanks!

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Original poster
Radish9 · 08/09/2014 11:40

Thankyou everyone! Brando might be a little too unusual for us(!) but I like Branwell, with the Yorkshire link too.
What do you think? Is Bran/ Branwell a decent name?

OP posts:
burgatroyd · 08/09/2014 11:33

Great suggestion of Brando!

jeee · 08/09/2014 11:19

There was a Bran in the Susan Cooper 'Dark is Rising' series. Not really relevant to you, OP. But I think I'm going to have to re-read them now.

FoodieMum3 · 08/09/2014 11:16

I've heard of the surname 'Brannan'

florascotia · 08/09/2014 11:08

In Celtic myths, Branwen is Bran's sister.

I believe that Branwyn, although technically male in Welsh, is often used for girls nowadays as an alternative to Branwen/Bronwen.... so Branwyn could just possibly be problematic.

STIGZ · 08/09/2014 10:59

Brannon
Brand
Branwyn
Brannis

Sorry thats all i can think of

florascotia · 08/09/2014 10:57

This may not be what you want, and am just saying (absolutely no criticism intended) but the 'Bran' (whole name) of Celtic mythology is very far from unfinished! He's a magic giant and a hero and a king. www.britannia.com/celtic/gods/bran.html
As you know, Bran means 'Raven'. Welsh Mumsnetters may want to correct me, but I'd say say something closer to 'Brahn' not 'Branne'.

Otherwise, there is Branwell - the name of Bronte sisters' brother - or Brannon or Branson or Brandt or even Brando (!!!!). All surnames used as first names. I believe there was a Viking name Brandr, but I have no idea whether it is still used in Scandinavia today.