Origin and Meaning of Ernst

Meaning & Origin

Serious, resolute

Origin: German - Derived from the Old High German name 'Ernust', which is related to the word 'ernst', meaning 'serious' or 'earnest'.

Interesting Facts

  • Ernst has been a traditional name in German-speaking regions since the Middle Ages and is often associated with strong character and determination.
  • The name is commonly used in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and can also be found in various forms in other Germanic languages.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Ernst Cassirer, a prominent German philosopher, and Ernst Hemingway, sometimes noted due to cultural references rather than name usage.
  • The popularity of Ernst has fluctuated over the decades, having seen a decline in use in the latter half of the 20th century but still remains in circulation.
  • Variations of the name include Ernstine (feminine) and the related names being Ernest in English and Ernö in Hungarian.