US Popularity:106
Origin:German
Other Origin(s):British
Meaning:Dweller at the brook
Brooks is a gender-neutral name primarily of English origin. As an alternative to Brook, you may recognize Brooks as another term for “water” or “small stream,” but plural. Beginning its journey as a last name, Brooks specifically refers to a "dweller by the brook," infusing this moniker with a natural feel. Brooks is cognate with the German Brucks and Dutch Broeks. With their shining surfaces and relaxing babbling sounds, a brook is a beautiful sight to enjoy. Brooks is no stranger to stardom—think filmmaker Mel Brooks or country singer Garth Brooks. According to The Bump user emmy236, it also has a sporty vibe: "As a baseball wife, I know a few adult players who were named after Brooks Robinson, so I think of it as an athletic name." Whether your inspiration comes from nature, sports, or the arts, the name Brooks is sure to help your kiddo flow towards their destiny.

Fun Facts About the Name Brooks

  • Brooks is in its Golden Age right now: Driven by the modern trend of using last names as first names, Brooks went from being an uncommon choice to a Top 100 boys' names star.
  • The gender-neutral crossover: While Brooks was traditionally considered for boys and the more feminine Brooke for girls, recent Social Security Administration (SSA) data shows more and more parents are seeing the gender-neutral potential of Brooks.
  • Brooks might have Yiddish roots: Some circles say that Brooks could be an Americanized form of the Yiddish last name Boruch. This moniker comes from the Hebrew Baruch and means "blessed."
  • Historical directions: Since Brooks stems from an English last name in the Middle Ages, you could consider the name an old giver of directions. Looking for a certain family or person? They live by the brook!
  • Brooks has celebrity stature: Hollywood and the sports world love Brooks. Celebrity parents like model Molly Sims, The Bachelor alum Ashley Salter, and various high-profile influencers have named their sons Brooks. Joining them are major sports icons like championship golfer Brooks Koepka and baseball legend Brooks Robinson. Brooks carries an athletic, high-energy vibe.

Famous People Named Brooks

Wondering who else shares this name? Check out these well known people who made this baby name famous.
  • Garth Brooks
    Musician, Singer
  • Mel Brooks
    Director

Common Nicknames for Brooks

Thought Brooks couldn’t get any cuter? Check out adorable nicknames for baby below.

How Popular Is The Name Brooks?

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Brooks is currently #245 on The Bump
Boy:Brooks is currently #140 on The Bump Boy Names
Girl:Brooks is currently #177 on The Bump Girl Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Brooks is currently #106 in U.S. births
Boy:Brooks is currently #64 in U.S. births
Girl:Brooks is currently #2126 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2025
Gender:
Girl
#2126
in 2025
+ 644
from 2024
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading ourmedical review and editorial process.

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