bryan

bryan — noun

1. William Jennings Bryan (1860–1925), an American lawyer and political leader. He

1.noun
Definition

William Jennings Bryan (1860–1925), an American lawyer and political leader. He ran for president three times as a Democrat, served as Secretary of State, and in 1925 helped argue a famous case about whether schools could teach evolution — the idea that living things change slowly over time

Example

Felix read about William Jennings Bryan and was amazed by his "Cross of Gold" speech.

The documentary showed how Bryan argued for teaching the Bible as fact in public schools.

Used with last name only for a well-known historical figure

2. a city in east-central Texas, located about 150 kilometres north of Houston, kno

2.noun
Definition

a city in east-central Texas, located about 150 kilometres north of Houston, known as a regional centre for agriculture, manufacturing, and as the home of Texas A&M University

Example

Eliska drove through Bryan to visit a friend at Texas A&M University.

Preposition 'through' with a city name

Devika found a teaching job in Bryan, Texas and moved there last August.

Usage Note

Americans usually say 'Bryan, Texas' (with the state name) when they first mention the city, because it is smaller and less internationally known than nearby Houston.

Etymology

Old CelticOld FrenchEnglish

The surname Bryan comes from the Old French given name Brian, which the Normans brought to England after the conquest of 1066. The name Brian itself goes back to an Old Celtic word *brig- meaning 'strength, power, high status.' William Jennings Bryan was named after this surname, and the city of Bryan, Texas was named after a local landowner with the same surname.