Summary

The surname Brake is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word 'brake', meaning a thicket or brushwood. It is believed that the surname originated as a topographic or locational name for someone who lived near a dense area of undergrowth or a thick patch of land. Over time, individuals with the surname Brake spread to various parts of the world, carrying their ancestral name with them.
There are
6220
Brakes in the USA
Brake is the
5591st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Brake

WernerBrake

Werner Brake was a German painter known for his realistic and impressionistic landscapes. He was born in 1894 in Cologne and studied at the Düsseldorf Academy of Fine Arts. Brake's works often captured the beauty of the German countryside and were highly regarded during his lifetime.

EmmaBrake

Emma Brake was a British suffragette and women's rights activist. She was born in London in 1878 and dedicated her life to fighting for women's voting rights. Brake was part of the Women's Social and Political Union and actively participated in protests and demonstrations. Her efforts played a significant role in the eventual achievement of women's suffrage in the United Kingdom.

GeorgeBrake

George Brake was an American jazz musician known for his skilled trumpet playing. He was born in New Orleans in 1922 and began playing the trumpet at a young age. Brake's talents led him to perform with various renowned jazz bands and artists, including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. His contributions to the genre helped shape the history of jazz music.

SophiaBrake

Sophia Brake was an Australian actress known for her roles in both theater and film. She was born in Melbourne in 1956 and began her acting career in local theater productions. Brake's talent and versatility allowed her to work on a range of projects, from Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas. She is considered one of the most respected actresses in Australian entertainment.

HenryBrake

Henry Brake was a British politician and Member of Parliament. He was born in Manchester in 1872 and dedicated his life to public service. Brake served as a member of the House of Commons for over 20 years, representing his constituency with dedication and integrity. He was known for his advocacy for social justice and was instrumental in the passing of several important legislation.

EvaBrake

Eva Brake was a Canadian author and poet. She was born in Newfoundland in 1936 and gained recognition for her powerful and evocative writing. Brake's works often explored themes of love, loss, and the natural beauty of her homeland. She received numerous literary awards throughout her career and is considered one of Newfoundland's most esteemed writers.

ArthurBrake

Arthur Brake was a British engineer and inventor. He was born in Birmingham in 1898 and had a keen interest in mechanics from a young age. Brake's groundbreaking inventions and innovations revolutionized the automotive industry. His most notable creation was the Brake Engineering System, which significantly improved the safety and performance of vehicles. His contributions earned him numerous accolades and recognition.

TheresaBrake

Theresa Brake was a Jamaican political leader and women's rights advocate. She was born in Kingston in 1945 and dedicated her life to fighting for social equality and gender rights. Brake was actively involved in political activism and was one of the key figures in the women's liberation movement in Jamaica. Her efforts paved the way for significant progress in women's rights in the country.

SamuelBrake

Samuel Brake was an Irish poet and playwright. He was born in Dublin in 1800 and had a deep passion for literature and drama. Brake's works often explored themes of love, nature, and social issues. He became one of Ireland's most celebrated poets and his plays were performed in theaters across the country. Brake's legacy continues to inspire and influence Irish literature.

CarolineBrake

Caroline Brake was an American civil rights activist and community organizer. She was born in Mississippi in 1932 and dedicated her life to fighting against racial discrimination and injustice. Brake played a significant role in organizing and participating in civil rights marches and protests, working alongside prominent leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. Her tireless efforts contributed to the advancement of the civil rights movement in the United States.

Brake Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Brake' is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word 'brake' or 'brak,' which means a thicket or brushwood. It may have originated as a topographic surname for someone who lived near such an area. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational surname for a person who cleared or managed brushwood or undergrowth.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Brake' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in states like Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. It is also present in other English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom and Canada, albeit in smaller numbers.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Brake' include 'Break,' 'Blake,' 'Brakel,' 'Brakefield,' 'Braken,' 'Bracher,' 'Bratcher,' 'Breakey,' and 'Brimer.' These variations may represent regional or dialectal differences in the pronunciation or spelling of the name.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Brake' has seen migration and immigration patterns similar to other English surnames. Individuals with the surname 'Brake' may have immigrated to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia during periods of colonization or economic opportunities. The name may have also been carried by emigrants from these countries to other parts of the world.