Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Bernie

      Origin 
      French

      Meaning 
      Bold as a Bear

      Variations 
      Bennie, Berrie, Bertie

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Bernie traces its origins back to the French language, where it developed centuries ago. It is derived from the French word bernard, which can be broken down into two components: bern, meaning bold, and hard, meaning bear. As such, the name Bernie has a strong and powerful connotation, evoking the image of a courageous and resilient individual.

      Throughout history, the name Bernie has been used in various contexts. Its popularity soared during the Middle Ages, particularly in France and Germany. At that time, it was often bestowed upon noble warriors and knights, serving as a testament to their bravery and strength. Over time, the name transcended its aristocratic origins and gained wider usage among different social classes.

      In modern-day usage, the name Bernie has not only retained its meaning but also maintained its widespread popularity. It remains a common choice for parents seeking a strong and masculine name for their sons. Additionally, the name Bernie has been carried by notable figures in various fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports. These individuals have contributed to the name's enduring significance and ensured its presence in contemporary society. Overall, the name Bernie continues to embody the enduring qualities of fearlessness and resilience throughout its historical and modern use.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Bernie.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Bernie.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Bernie.

      Bernie

      is the most common child name for Bernie.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1916 is when there were the most people born with the first name Bernie.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.