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
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • 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
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Ernst

      Origin

      German

      Meaning

      Seriousness or Earnestness

      Variations

      Erast, Erasto, Eraste
      The first name Ernst originates from the German language and carries the meaning of seriousness or earnestness. This name is often imbued with connotations of sincerity, responsibility, and a steadfast nature. The name may also reflect a person's character traits, suggesting an individual who approaches life with gravity and commitment. Its etymology underscores the value placed on these qualities in Germanic cultures, highlighting the importance of integrity and seriousness in both personal and professional realms.

      The name Ernst has been in use since the Middle Ages and can be traced back to early Germanic tribes. Throughout history, it has appeared in various forms and spellings, embodying the values of the time. Prominently featured in German literature and culture, Ernst became associated with various notable figures, including statesmen, artists, and theologians. The name's resonance within German history is significant, as it reflects qualities admired in leaders and philosophers who shaped the philosophical and political landscape of Europe.

      In contemporary society, Ernst remains a popular first name, especially in Germany and other German-speaking countries. It continues to be associated with traits such as determination, reliability, and introspection. The name has also found its way into popular culture, appearing in novels, films, and other media, which serve to reinforce its traditional meanings. In recent times, while the world has evolved, the connotations of seriousness and earnestness associated with the name Ernst remain relevant, demonstrating its enduring appeal and significance.

      Based on our records...

      Johansson

      Johansson

      This is the most common surname associated with Ernst.
      Anna

      Anna

      This is the most common name of those married to a Ernst.
      Ernst

      Ernst

      This is the most common name for a child of a Ernst.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1890 is when there were the most people born with the first name Ernst.

      Explore the origins of another name.