Bernard
Boy name · 275 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Bernard: 275 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 28 births in 1975.
Derived from the Old German *Bernhard*, Bernard means "brave as a bear" – a fitting image of strength and gentleness. The name was carried through history by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, the influential Cistercian reformer, and Saint Bernard of Menthon, patron of mountaineering, whose hospice in the Alps gave its name to the loyal St. Bernard dog. Notable literary and cultural bearers include Nobel-winning playwright George Bernard Shaw and beloved British actor Bernard Cribbins. In Scotland, the name enjoyed steady popularity through the 20th century, often found in forms like the Gaelic Bearnard. Its bear-root also echoes through the legend of King Arthur's knight Sir Bedivere, another name from the same Germanic stem.
Boy 34 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 197528 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #6474 babies
- Total births
- 275since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ▲ 6%vs prior 5y