Brianna, the feminine form of Brian, is believed to be derived from the Old Irish root brii, meaning "high" or "hill," or briig, meaning "power" or "might." It debuted in the Social Security Administration's top 1,000 in 1976 and was a top 100 girl's name in the U.S. every year between 1988 and 2016. While it has fallen back in recent years, it's quickly re-approaching the top 150 again and is outperforming similar names like Bria, Briana, Adriana and Arianna. That should continue thanks to celebrities like Brianna LaPaglia, who continue to inspire young women.
