Bernard: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are a traditional European custom, celebrating the feast day of the saint or martyr after whom a person is named. Bernard is a name rich in history and strength, embodying a classic, formal mood. Stemming from Germanic roots meaning "brave as a bear," it projects reliability and traditional authority. This long-standing male name has been a common fixture in the USA and Europe for centuries. Bernard's widespread veneration is reflected in its numerous name day celebrations throughout the year in countries like Poland, France, and the USA.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Bernard's name day is celebrated
on January 19 in Poland,
February 9 in Poland,
February 16 in Poland,
March 12 in Croatia and Poland,
May 20 in Slovakia,
June 1 in Poland,
June 15 in Poland,
August 10 in Poland,
August 20 in Czechia, France, Poland and the USA,
August 21 in Poland,
September 14 in Poland,
October 14 in Poland and
October 21 in Poland.

The Story Behind This Name

Bernard has maintained a consistent presence in the United States, although its peak popularity occurred in the early 20th century. During the 1910s and 1920s, it frequently ranked within the top 100 most common male names. Its usage reflected large waves of European immigration where the name was traditional. After the mid-century mark, the name began a gradual decline in usage, becoming less common for newborns. Today, Bernard is often seen as a dignified, traditional name rather than a contemporary favorite.

Name origin and meaning

The name Bernard boasts Germanic roots, specifically stemming from the elements *bern* meaning "bear" and *hard* meaning "brave," "sturdy," or "hardy." The compound meaning is therefore often interpreted as "brave as a bear" or "bear hard." It was historically introduced to England by the Normans, establishing its presence across Western Europe. This name has remained popular across various cultures due to its strong and robust linguistic foundation. Its ancient lineage ensures it carries a sense of durability and historical weight.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Bernard is overwhelmingly classified as a masculine given name globally. Historically, the name's strong Germanic components have cemented its use exclusively for males throughout Europe and the Americas. Variations and diminutives, though sometimes softer, also typically remain within the male gender classification, such as Bernie. While names can occasionally shift usage, Bernard maintains an exceptionally firm identity as a traditional male name worldwide. There are virtually no established examples of it being used as a feminine or unisex name in standard naming conventions.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

The name Bernard projects a strong and highly traditional tone. It evokes a formal, perhaps even slightly serious, mood that suggests reliability and steadfastness. The vibe is decidedly classic and authoritative, contrasting with modern playful or soft names. It carries a sense of historic elegance and intellectual dignity. Overall, the name is sturdy and dependable, portraying a refined yet resolute personality.

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Bernard

Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.

Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name

Destiny number: 8 – The Powerhouse.
Keywords: Power, ambition, material success, authority, confidence.
Positive Traits: Strong-willed, business-minded, disciplined, ambitious, efficient.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, controlling, or work-obsessed.
Life Path Meaning: A path focused on achieving success, power, and financial security.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 3 - The communicator.
Traits: Creative, expressive, social, optimistic.
Strengths: Charismatic, artistic, talented in communication and writing.
Challenges: Can be scattered, superficial, or struggle with discipline.

The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You

The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Saturn - Discipline, Responsibility, Structure.
Saturn represents discipline, structure, and perseverance. Names influenced by Saturn often belong to individuals who are serious, wise, and highly responsible. These names reflect resilience, patience, and a strong work ethic. People with Saturn-ruled names tend to be grounded and practical, often taking on leadership roles that require long-term planning and commitment.

Name days: Name Bernard

This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Poland	January	19	Andrzej, Bernard, Erwin, Erwina, Eufemia, Henryk, Kanut, Mariusz, Marta, Matylda, Mechtylda, Pia, Racimir, Sara
Poland	February	9	Apolonia, Bernard, Cyryl, Eryk, Eryka, Gorzysław, Mariusz, Nikifor, Rajnold
Poland	February	16	Bernard, Dan, Danisz, Danuta, Julianna, Symeon
Croatia	March	12	Bernard, Budislav, Maksimilijan
Poland	March	12	Bernard, Blizbor, Grzegorz, Józefina, Wasyl
Slovakia	May	20	Bernard
Poland	June	1	Alfons, Alfonsyna, Bernard, Fortunat, Gracjana, Hortensjusz, Jakub, Konrad, Konrada, Magdalena, Nikodem, Symeon, Świętopełk
Poland	June	15	Abraham, Angelina, Bernard, Jolanta, Leona, Leonida, Nikifor, Wit, Witold, Witolda, Witosław, Witołd, Wodzisław
Poland	August	10	Asteria, Bernard, Bogdan, Borys, Filomena, Laurencjusz, Prochor, Wawrzyniec, Wierzchosław
Czechia	August	20	Bernard
France	August	20	Bernard, Samuel
Poland	August	20	Bernard, Jan, Sabin, Samuel, Samuela, Sieciech, Sobiesław, Szwieciech, Świeciech
USA	August	20	Barnard, Bernard, Bernardo, Filbert, Philbert, Rey, Reyna, Reynalda, Reynaldo, Reynold
Poland	August	21	Adolf, Adolfa, Adolfina, Alf, Bernard, Emilian, Filipina, Franciszek, Joanna, Kazimiera, Męcimir
Poland	September	14	Bernard, Cyprian, Roksana, Siemomysł, Szymon
Poland	October	14	Alan, Bernard, Dominik, Dzierżymir, Fortunata, Kalikst, Kaliksta
Poland	October	21	Bernard, Celina, Dobromił, Elżbieta, Hilary, Klemencja, Pelagia, Pelagiusz, Urszula, Wszebora

Name days: Similar names (Bernard)

Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Croatia	April	16	Bernardica, Josip Benedikt Labre
Croatia	May	20	Bernardin Sijenski
France	May	20	Bernardin
Italy	May	20	Bernardino da Siena
Poland	May	20	Anastazy, Asteriusz, Bazyli, Bazylid, Bazylis, Bernardyn, Bernardyna, Bronimir, Iwo, Sawa, Teodor, Wiktoria
USA	May	20	Bernadette, Bernardina, Bernardine, Bernetta, Bernita
Spain	May	28	Agustín, Bernardo, Emilio, Germán
Croatia	August	20	Bernard cn., Branko, Dino
Italy	August	20	Bernardo di Chiaravalle
Lithuania	August	20	Bernardas, Neringa, Tolvinas
Spain	August	20	Bernardo Abad
Spain	October	25	Bernardo Calvó

Bernard A Classic and Sturdy Name

Bernard is a powerful masculine name, derived from ancient roots signifying the strength and bravery of a bear. Its history in the USA peaked in the early 20th century, cementing its status as a timeless classic name with a sturdy and authoritative mood. While no longer topping the charts, it retains a dignified and traditional essence. The frequent celebration of Bernard's name day across several European nations, alongside an August date in the USA, highlights its enduring international religious and cultural significance. This name remains a solid choice characterized by historical depth and reliability.

When Is Your Name Day?

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