Surname Bernards - Meaning and Origin
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Bernards: What does the surname Bernards mean?
The last name Bernards is of Dutch origin and first appeared in the Netherlands in the Middle Ages. It is thought to have derived from the personal name Bernard, which in turn has been derived from two Germanic words - bern, meaning “brave” and hard, meaning “brave, strong”.
The first known bearer of the name was Jannes Bernaerts, a prominent Dutch businessman who owned numerous estates and held a number of important titles during the 1700s. The name continued to spread throughout the Netherlands, with many spellings arising from regional use.
The Bernards name is a reflection of the personal strength of its first bearer and has continued to be associated with bravery, endurance, and loyalty to this day. Many modern-day bearers of the name have gone on to be successful in various fields, such as business and entertainment, as well as in politics and the arts.
Despite all of its success, the last name Bernards still retains its original meaning and stands as an enduring symbol of strength and fortitude. Bearers of the name continue to embody the bravery, loyalty and strength passed down throughout the generations, a trait ensured to be remembered and respected for many generations to come.
Order DNA origin analysisBernards: Where does the name Bernards come from?
The last name Bernards is most commonly found in the United States, though it is also found in countries around the world. The surname originated in the Netherlands and has been passed down over the years.
In the United States, Bernards is most commonly found in California, according to the United States Census Bureau's 2020 data. The state is home to the most Bernards households in the nation. The second and third most common states of residence are Florida and Texas, respectively.
Outside of the United States, Bernards can be found in Germany, The Netherlands, and Brazil, among other countries. The surname is also quite common in France, where it has been used since at least the 16th century.
The Bernard family is a large one, tracing its roots to William Bernard, who settled in Massachusetts in the mid 1600s. From there, the family spread throughout the country, as William's descendants moved to other states. The trend continues today, as Bernards are found in nearly every state in the union.
Though the surname Bernards is not as common today as it was centuries ago, it remains a family name that is firmly rooted in generations of history. It is an unmistakable marker of family heritage that continues to be passed down from generation to generation.
Variations of the surname Bernards
The surname Bernards has multiple variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin.
Variants of the surname Bernards include Barnard, Barnards, Bernar, Bernhard, Bernard, Bernardes, Bernardi, Bernardin, Bernardine, Bernardsen, Bernardsson, Barnart, Barnhardt, Bernarati, Bernhardi, Bernhardin, Bernhards, Bernhardsson, Bernhardt, and Bernhardtsen.
Spellings of the surname Bernards range from the traditional Bernards to the more unique Banards, Bernardson, Burnards, and Bernie.
Surnames of the same origin as Bernards include Barnard, Bernhard, and Bernarde. Other surnames with the same origin are Barnhart, Bernardino, Bernardez, Bernardi, and Bernardis.
The precise origins of the surname Bernards is unclear, however, it is thought to be derived from the French word for ‘bear’. Therefore, the surname implies a brave and strong individual. It is likely that the surname was adopted by individuals who demonstrated these traits.
The surname Bernards is also found in Britain, Germany and Holland, indicating its widespread use. It is also believed to be the French variation of the German surname ‘Bernhard’.
In Britain and the United States, the surname Bernards can be found among individuals of various religious and ethnic backgrounds. It is commonly found in records of Jewish families, as well as families of English, Welsh, and Irish descent.
Overall, the surname Bernards has many variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. It is thought to have originated from the French word for ‘bear’ and is found both in Britain and the United States among individuals of all backgrounds.
Famous people with the name Bernards
- Peter Bernards : Actor and singer known for roles such as Dr. Evan Miles in The Fosters and appearing on the stage productions of Annie and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
- Gary Bernards : Basketball coach from the University of Northern Iowa
- Veit Bernards : German actor, director, and theater manager best known for his work in the stage production of the musical Norma 4.lyssa Bernards:Australian actress most known for her part on the sketch comedy show Home Movie Moments
- Lola Bernards: Film and television actress known for roles in the movie The Way We Talk and the TV series The Fox
- Pete Bernards: Jazz bassist and member of the band The Night Horses
- Mark Bernards: Professional baseball player for the Chicago Cubs
- John Bernards: Lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Ya Killin' Me
- Emma Bernards: Lead singer and songwriter of the band The White Folks
- Robert Bernards: Award-winning physicist and researcher best known for his work studying neutrinos