Bernard

The name Bernard is derived from the Germanic elements 'bern' meaning bear, and 'hard' meaning brave or hardy. It was popularized in the medieval period by several saints and monks who bore this name.

In the modern era, Bernard was a commonly used name in English, French, and German-speaking countries. Its popularity peaked in the early to mid-20th century, but has declined somewhat in recent decades.

Notable bearers of the name Bernard include Bernard of Clairvaux, a 12th-century French abbot and philosopher, and British writer and philosopher Bernard Williams.

While traditionally a masculine name, some women have also adopted the name Bernard or the feminized version Bernarda.