Why is Brussels Called Brussels? – Origin & Meaning

Etymology & History

Brussels derives from the Old Dutch 'Bruocsella', meaning 'settlement (sella) on the marsh (bruoc)'. The city grew around a chapel built on an island in the Senne river in the 6th century, in a marshy area that is now completely urbanised. The name was first recorded in the 10th century.

Meaning

"settlement on the marsh"

Location

Country	Belgium
Region	BRU
Population	1,019,022
Language of origin	Old Dutch
Type of name	Geographic feature

Etymology & History

Brussels is a pplc located in BRU, Belgium. With a population of approximately 1,019,022, it is one of many communities whose name tells a story about the region's past.

Understanding why places are named as they are gives us a window into history — the languages spoken, the people honoured, the landscapes encountered and the cultures that shaped the world we live in today. The field of toponymy (the study of place names) reveals that almost every name has a meaning, even when that meaning has been obscured by centuries of linguistic change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Brussels called Brussels?

Brussels derives from the Old Dutch 'Bruocsella', meaning 'settlement (sella) on the marsh (bruoc)'. The city grew around a chapel built on an island in the Senne river in the 6th century, in a marshy area that is now completely urbanised. The name was first recorded in the 10th century.

What is the linguistic origin of the name Brussels?

The name Brussels has its roots in Old Dutch.

How old is the name Brussels?

The age of a place name is often difficult to determine precisely. Many names predate written records entirely — they were passed down orally for centuries before being first recorded. In the case of Brussels, the name likely dates from the period of first significant settlement in the area, which may be medieval, colonial or even ancient depending on the region's history.

The Origin of the Name "Brussels"

Etymology & History