Bernard
Bernard first appears in US records in 0. It peaked in 1924, when 4,505 boys were given the name.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Bernard popular?
Vintage Bernard is rarely given today, but saw real use in the past — it peaked back in 1924.
| 2020s | 845 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 1,608 | |
| 2000s | 2,252 | |
| 1990s | 4,159 | |
| 1980s | 6,507 | |
| 1970s | 9,100 | |
| 1960s | 17,475 | |
| 1950s | 25,887 | |
| 1940s | 26,446 | |
| 1930s | 30,545 | |
| 1920s | 42,408 | |
| 1910s | 25,628 | |
| 1900s | 3,296 | |
| 1890s | 2,315 | |
| 1880s | 1,616 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Bernard mean?
From Germanic 'bern' (bear) and 'hard' (brave, hardy), 'brave/strong as a bear' - the bear being a warrior symbol. Borne by several saints.
Names like Bernard
germanic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Bernard
Popular germanic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Bernard
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Bernard mean?
Bernard means Bold as a bear. From Germanic 'bern' (bear) and 'hard' (brave, hardy), 'brave/strong as a bear' - the bear being a warrior symbol. Borne by several saints.
What is the origin of the name Bernard?
Bernard is of germanic origin.
How do you pronounce Bernard?
Bernard is pronounced “BUR-nard.”
Is Bernard a boy or a girl name?
Bernard is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Bernard a popular name right now?
Bernard is rarely given today, but saw real use in the past — it peaked back in 1924.
How popular is the name Bernard?
In 2025, Bernard ranked #1362 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Bernard most popular?
Bernard was most popular in 1924, when about 4,505 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Bernard?
Names similar to Bernard include Herman, Reginald, Randolph, Louis, Rudolph.
What names go well with Bernard?
germanic names that pair well with Bernard include Robert, William, Charles, Emma, Walter.