A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Bertram since 1880
Babies named Bertram per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1923, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Bertram's real moment was 1895.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 164 |
| 1890s | 165 |
| 1900s | 223 |
| 1910s | 1,299 |
| 1920s | 1,942 |
| 1930s | 1,063 |
| 1940s | 744 |
| 1950s | 736 |
| 1960s | 625 |
| 1970s | 402 |
| 1980s | 234 |
| 1990s | 172 |
| 2000s | 68 |
| 2010s | 70 |
| 2020s | 48 |
Meaning & origin
Bertram is a name with deep Germanic roots, meaning 'bright raven,' a compound of the elements beraht and hraban. It has never been a common name in the United States, but it experienced its peak popularity in 1895, when it ranked 8,243. In 2025, about 1 in 189,786 boys received the name, reflecting a niche but enduring presence. After a period of decline, the name has been rising in usage since 2010, suggesting a slow revival driven perhaps by a taste for vintage names. Bertram has not been recorded among top baby names in any U.S. state in recent decades, but its classic, sturdy feel may appeal to parents seeking an uncommon yet historically grounded choice.
Bertram is derived from the Old High German elements beraht, meaning 'bright' or 'famous,' and hraban, meaning 'raven.' The name was introduced to England by Norman settlers after the Conquest, where it became moderately common in the Middle Ages. It fell out of widespread use by the 17th century but saw a revival in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Where Bertram 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bert, Bertie
Variants: Bertrando, Bertramo, Berthram
Sibling names for Bertram
Names that share Bertram's style, for a brother or sister.
