Brett

Brett began as a surname connected with a Breton, a person from Brittany. It reflects the movement of people and family names between Brittany and Britain during the medieval period. The meaning identifies a regional connection; it is not a general translation of bravery or strength suggested by the name's short sound.

Brett has established use for both boys and girls. Lady Brett Ashley in Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises provides a notable female literary example, while football player Brett Favre is a familiar male bearer. Bret is a shorter spelling alternative. Both forms retain a single syllable, so there is little need for a separate everyday nickname.