According to P.W. Joyce the name arises from "Baile Bhrecan" which literally means "Bhrecan's Town"). Bhrecan is a common medieval first name and there are several other Brackenstowns in Ireland. There is also a possible link to the of Bracken River. In this case the name could derive from Bhreac-in (Little Trout). Many locals however have traditionally felt that Baile Brigín means "Town of the Little Hills", due to the relatively low hills that surround the town.