Ernest

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

Ernest - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Ernest: E-R-N-E-S-T, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Ernest: ER nust; ehr NEST
Meaning of Ernest: Sincere, earnest.
Origin of Ernest: The name 'Ernest' has Germanic roots and can be traced back to the Old High German word 'ernust', which means 'serious' or 'earnest'. Its earliest known use dates back to the Middle Ages, where it was commonly used among Germanic-speaking populations.; American Names; English Names; French Names; German Names; Germanic Names; Literary Names; Russian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Ernest: Earnest; Earnesto; Ernesto; Ernestus; Erneszt; Ernie; Erno; Ernst
Popularity of Ernest: Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Ernest' has had its ups and downs. In the 19th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in English-speaking countries such as England and the United States. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the influence of the Victorian era, where names with a sense of seriousness and virtue were highly regarded.; Ernest currently has 66 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Leonel is slightly more popular than Ernest.

Etymology of Ernest

As mentioned earlier, the name 'Ernest' is derived from the Old High German word 'ernust'. The Germanic word 'ernust' itself is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word 'ernustuz', which means 'serious' or 'determined'. This etymology reflects the character traits associated with the name 'Ernest', such as being sincere, honest, and steadfast.

Cultural Significance of Ernest

While the name 'Ernest' does not have any specific cultural or religious significance, it has been used in various literary works and plays. One notable example is the play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Oscar Wilde, where the name 'Ernest' is used as a symbol of the duality and deception of the main character. Additionally, the name 'Ernest' has been associated with the idea of seriousness and integrity, making it a popular choice among parents who value these qualities.