Son of the brown-haired one
Originally an English surname, Browning is derived from the Old English nickname 'Bruning'. It was used to describe someone with brown hair, skin, or clothing. In a modern context, it is often associated with the literary legacy of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
Less common today
Browning isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #7,323 in 2013.
Renowned Victorian poet and playwright
Two-time Olympic long-distance runner
Influential American firearms designer
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).