Bear

What does the baby name Bear mean? Learn about what Bear means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Bear - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Bear: B-E-A-R, is a 4-letter male given name.
Meaning of Bear: Bear-like, strong, brave bear.
Origin of Bear: The name 'Bear' is derived from the Old English word 'bera', which literally means 'bear'. 'Bear's have long been revered in various cultures for their strength and ferocity, making the name 'Bear' a fitting choice for those who want to instill these qualities in their child. The earliest known use of the name 'Bear' dates back to the 12th century, where it was used as a surname rather than a given name.; American Names; English Names; Germanic Names; Old French Names; Pet Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Bear: Barnard; Barnardo; Barnet; Barney; Barnhard; Barnhardo; Bearnard; Bern; Bernad; Bernaldo; Bernard; Berngard; Bernhart; Bernie
Popularity of Bear: While 'Bear' is not a common name, it has gained popularity in recent years. In the early 2000s, the name began to appear on baby name charts, and its usage has steadily increased since then. However, it is still considered a relatively uncommon choice compared to more traditional names. It is worth noting that the popularity of the name 'Bear' may vary depending on the region and cultural context.; Bear currently has 81 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Brighton is slightly more popular than Bear.

Etymology of Bear

The etymology of the name 'Bear' is straightforward, as it directly translates to 'bear' in Old English. The Old English word 'bera' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'berô', which shares the same meaning. The word 'bear' is believed to have originated from the Proto-Indo-European root '*bher', meaning 'brown' or 'shining.'

Cultural Significance of Bear

'Bear's hold significant cultural symbolism in various societies around the world. In Native American cultures, bears are often associated with strength, protection, and healing. They are considered sacred animals and are believed to possess spiritual powers. In Norse mythology, the bear is associated with the god Odin and represents courage and warrior spirit. The name 'Bear', therefore, carries these cultural connotations of strength and power.