Herbert
- Home
- Boy Names
- Herbert
What does the baby name Herbert mean? Learn about what Herbert means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Herbert - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Herbert
- H-E-R-B-E-R-T, is a 7-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Herbert
- HUR-bərt
- HER bert
- Meaning of Herbert
- Illustrious warrior, army bright, famed warrior, bright, excellent army or ruler, bright warrior, bright army.
- Origin of Herbert
- The name 'Herbert' finds its roots in the Germanic language, specifically in the combination of the elements 'heri', meaning 'army', and 'beraht', meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. This combination gives rise to the meaning 'bright army' or 'famous warrior'. The earliest known use of the name 'Herbert' can be traced back to the medieval period, where it gained popularity among the nobility and the warrior class.
- English Names
- French Names
- German Names
- Germanic Names
- Hungarian Names
- Island Names
- Literary Names
- Place Names
- Polish Names
- Politician Names
- President Names
- Slovak Names
- Slovenian Names
- Surname Names
- Teutonic Names
- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Herbert
- Bert
- Bertie
- Erberto
- Harbert
- Hebert
- Herb
- Herbertus
- Herbie
- Heribert
- Heriberto
- Popularity of Herbert
- Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Herbert' has experienced ebbs and flows. In the early medieval period, it was widely used among the Germanic tribes as a testament to their bravery and military prowess. However, during the Middle Ages, the name 'Herbert' faced a decline in popularity due to the rise of other names that were deemed more fashionable at the time.
- Herbert currently has 73 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Aron is slightly more popular than Herbert.
Etymology of Herbert
To fully understand the linguistic roots of the name 'Herbert', we must turn to its Germanic origins. The element 'heri' in 'Herbert' is derived from the Old High German word 'heri', which means 'army' or 'host'. This reflects the importance of military strength and valor in the Germanic culture. The element 'beraht' is derived from the Old High German word 'beraht', meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. This highlights the desire for fame and glory that was prevalent in the medieval period.
Cultural Significance of Herbert
In various cultural contexts, the name 'Herbert' holds a special significance. In medieval Europe, where chivalry and knighthood were highly valued, the name 'Herbert' was associated with bravery and honor. It was often bestowed upon noble sons who were destined for a life of military service. The name 'Herbert' also carries a sense of tradition and heritage, as it has been passed down through generations in certain families.