What does the Dutch last name Brake mean?

The Dutch last name Brake likely originates from a topographical place name. It refers to a "brake," which in Middle English means "a thicket of trees, a small wood."

This indicates that the original bearer of the surname likely lived near a small wooded area. The name is common in the Netherlands and has spread to other parts of the world due to migration.

It's important to note that while the meaning is generally understood, specific origins and connections to particular locations can vary. To determine the exact origins of a specific family's Brake surname, further research may be needed, potentially through genealogical databases or local historical records.