Holding steady, #8,243 for boys today.
Popularity of Bernie since 1880
Babies named Bernie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1960, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Bernie's real moment was 1907.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 0 | 72 |
| 1890s | 25 | 99 |
| 1900s | 67 | 154 |
| 1910s | 195 | 594 |
| 1920s | 264 | 953 |
| 1930s | 246 | 1,280 |
| 1940s | 228 | 1,410 |
| 1950s | 304 | 1,505 |
| 1960s | 178 | 1,468 |
| 1970s | 28 | 663 |
| 1980s | 0 | 340 |
| 1990s | 0 | 267 |
| 2000s | 0 | 224 |
| 2010s | 0 | 113 |
| 2020s | 0 | 83 |
Meaning & origin
Bernie, typically a diminutive of Bernard, has been in use as a given name in the United States since at least 1880. It reached its peak popularity in 1907, a time when many traditional Germanic names were common. As of 2025, Bernie ranks 8,243, reflecting a stable but less frequent usage, fitting a trajectory that has remained consistent over decades. The name carries the strong meaning of 'bear-like warrior,' derived from its Germanic roots. While no top states are listed in recent data, Bernie remains a classic choice that evokes a sense of friendly familiarity.
Bernie is a diminutive of Bernard, which derives from the Old High German elements 'ber' (bear) and 'hart' (hardy, brave, strong). The name was introduced to England by the Normans and has been used as a standalone given name since the 19th century. Its simplicity and friendly sound have contributed to its enduring if modest use.
Where Bernie is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Bernie” around the world
Where Bernie lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
5
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Berny
Sibling names for Bernie
Names that share Bernie's style, for a brother or sister.
