Bertha is a feminine given name of Germanic origin. It comes from the Old Germanic word "berhta" which means "bright" or "famous". The name Bertha has been used throughout history, with notable bearers including Empress Bertha of the Holy Roman Empire and Queen Bertha of the Franks.
The name Bertha gained popularity in England during the medieval period after it was brought over by the Normans. It continued to be used throughout the centuries and can still be found today among people named for their ancestors or simply because they like the sound of the name.
Despite its age, the name Bertha remains relatively uncommon compared to other names with similar meanings such as Clara or Bright. However, it has been used by several notable figures throughout history, including Bertha von Suttner who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905 for her efforts to promote peace and disarmament.
In popular culture, the name Bertha has been featured in various forms of media such as literature, film, and television. Some examples include "Bertha Mason," a character from Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre," and "Bertha Rochester," a character from the TV series "Penny Dreadful."
Overall, Bertha is an interesting name with a long history that has been carried by many notable figures throughout time. Its meaning of "bright" or "famous" gives it a positive connotation that can make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
"The name Bertha peaked in popularity between 1886 and 1916, with over 4000 births each year during this period. However, it began to decline sharply after the 1920s, dropping below 500 births per year by the late 1930s. By the turn of the century (2000), fewer than 100 Berthas were born annually, and since 2016, the number has averaged around 30 births per year."