The name Burr is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word burh, which means fortress or stronghold. Burr is a surname that has been borne by several notable historical figures, including Aaron Burr, the third Vice President of the United States, and William S. Burroughs, the American author and artist. Burr is also a common nickname for people with the given name Burton, such as actor Burton Cummings or baseball player Burton Bo Jackson. In botany, the name Burr is used to describe a type of fruit that has a prickly outer covering, such as the chestnut or the acorn. The name Burr has been used in popular culture to describe a character or person who is tough, resilient, or prickly, such as the character Burr White in the novel and film The Secret Life of Bees. Burr is also the name of a tool used in woodworking, specifically a type of drill bit that is used to remove material from a hole. In some parts of the United States, particularly the South, burr is a colloquial term for a small, rural town or community. The name Burr has been associated with several places in the United States, including Burr, Nebraska; Burr Hill, New York; and Burr Oak, Michigan. Burr is also the name of a type of tree, specifically the bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa), which is native to North America and is known for its large, prickly acorns. In some cultures, the name Burr is associated with strength, resilience, and determination, as it is thought to evoke the image of a tough, prickly exterior that protects a soft, vulnerable interior.

The root form of Burr is Burr — meaning Bristle.

Burr remains a beloved choice, ranking #14 in the US. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.