Bourke

French

"from the fortress"

Bourke Origin and Meaning

The name Bourke is a boy's name.

Bourke is a masculine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, derived from the surname de Búrca or Burke, which comes from the Norman 'de Burgh' meaning 'from the fortress or stronghold.' The name entered Ireland with the Norman invasion in the 12th century and became one of the most powerful Gaelic families. As a first name, Bourke is uncommon but carries aristocratic connotations due to its association with the prominent Burke family. The spelling with 'ou' rather than 'u' gives it a distinctive appearance while maintaining the same pronunciation. Though rare as a given name, it represents a trend of using traditional surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and Irish cultural connections.

Famous People Named Bourke

• Bourke Blakemore Hickenlooper U.S. Senator and governor of Iowa
• Aylmer Bourke Lambert English geneticist

The name Bourke in Pop Culture

• Dooney & Bourke American designer of fine accessories in leather and fabric