Bernhard: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days serve as cultural and religious traditions, celebrating the saint or feast day associated with a given name, especially prominent in many European and Latin American countries. The name Bernhard, steeped in rich Germanic history, carries a profound origin signifying âbrave bearâ and projects a strong, traditional mood. Though less common in the US, it maintains cultural recognition as a classic, formal masculine identifier. Bernhard is notably celebrated on multiple name days, including June 13th, July 20th, August 20th, and November 5th in Austria. This introduction explores the traditional character, cultural footprint, and designated feast days connected to the name Bernhard.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Bernhard's name day is celebrated
on June 13 in Austria,
July 20 in Austria,
August 20 in Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Norway and Sweden and
November 5 in Austria.
The Story Behind This Name
The name Bernhard has maintained a modest, yet consistent, presence in the United States, often reflective of German and Central European immigration patterns. Unlike the Anglicized variant "Bernard," the spelling "Bernhard" emphasizes its Germanic roots and formality. Its usage tended to peak during periods of significant immigration waves in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, usually within specific ethnic communities. While never achieving widespread popularity among the general population, it is recognized as a traditional and historical given name. Today, it remains relatively uncommon, primarily favored by families wishing to honor specific ancestral heritage.
Name origin and meaning
The name Bernhard stems from ancient Germanic roots, derived from the components *bern* and *hard*. The element *bern* translates directly to "bear," symbolizing attributes of strength, courage, and power. The second element, *hard*, signifies "brave," "strong," or "hardy." Combining these elements yields the powerful interpretation, most commonly rendered as "brave as a bear" or "strong bear." This robust etymology reflects the high regard for martial prowess and durability in the cultures where the name originated.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Bernhard is classified almost exclusively as a masculine given name across all regions where it is used. Historically, there is no significant precedent for its use as a female or unisex identifier in any major linguistic area. It maintains its strict male assignment throughout German-speaking countries such as Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Furthermore, its various cognates and derivatives in other European languages, like Bernard, also adhere strictly to male usage. Therefore, Bernhard is definitively established worldwide as a male name.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
Bernhard projects a mood that is decidedly strong, traditional, and intellectual. The name carries a formal, serious tone, suggesting a personality that is reliable, sophisticated, and perhaps scholarly. It evokes a distinguished and classic vibe, emphasizing history and steadfastness rather than modern trends. This name avoids sounding playful or lighthearted, instead favoring an aura of gravitas and stability. Overall, Bernhard suggests a mature and venerable character.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Bernhard
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: 7 â The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.
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: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.
Name days: Name Bernhard
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 |
 Austria | June | 13 | Antonius, Bernhard |
| Austria | July | 20 | Apollinaris, Bernhard, Margaretha |
| Austria | August | 20 | Bernd, Bernhard, Ronald |
 Denmark | August | 20 | Bernhard |
 Estonia | August | 20 | Benno, Bernhard, Pearn, Pearu, Pärn, Pärno, Päärn, Pääro |
 Norway | August | 20 | Bernhard, Bernt |
 Sweden | August | 20 | Bernhard, Bernt |
| Austria | November | 5 | Bernhard, Berthild, Emmerich |
Name days: Similar names (Bernhard)
Here youâll 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.
Bernhard A Strong Traditional Name
In conclusion, Bernhard is a robustly masculine name derived from Germanic components meaning "brave bear." While possessing a limited history in the USA compared to its Anglicized forms, it maintains an image of formality, strength, and intellectual tradition. The name's serious and classic mood aligns perfectly with its definitive male classification across global usage. Its cultural significance is further punctuated by multiple designated name days across Central and Northern Europe, specifically highlighted by dates such as August 20th and November 5th. Bernhard stands as a testament to historical linguistic resilience and enduring dignified character.
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