Bernard

Meaning

Bold as a bear, combining 'ber' (bear) and 'hard' (bold).

Etymology

Derived from the Germanic elements 'beran' (bear) and 'hard' (hardy, bold). The name became popular in medieval France through Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and Norman nobility.

About the Bernard Surname

A surname derived from the personal name Bernard, indicating descent from a male ancestor named Bernard. It became established as a hereditary surname during the medieval period in France.

Distribution

Primarily found in France, Belgium, and French-speaking regions.

People with the Bernard Surname