Bernard is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German words 'bern' meaning bear and 'hard' meaning brave or strong. It has been widely used throughout Europe for centuries, particularly in France, Germany, and England. Bernard was popularized as a Christian name by early saints and martyrs who bore it, including Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, a prominent Cistercian abbot and theologian during the 12th century. The name has also been associated with several notable figures throughout history, such as Bernard of Chartres, a philosopher in the 12th century School of Chartres, and Bernard Shaw, an Irish playwright known for his wit and social commentary. In some cultures, Bernard is considered a strong and authoritative name, while in others it may evoke images of intelligence or wisdom due to its association with learned figures from the past. Today, Bernard remains a classic choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinguished name for their child.
The name Bernard experienced notable fluctuations in popularity throughout the century, with a significant peak in the late 1920s and early 1930s. From 1897 to 1946, there were 559 recorded births, reaching a high of 34 births in 1927. However, from 1947 onwards, Bernard's popularity declined steadily, with only 424 births recorded over the following 46 years, dropping as low as 5 births in 1988. The overall total for the entire period is 983 births.