name
Uncommon
Ernest
UR-nihst
Ernest (name) means a male given name of Germanic origin, especially popular in the 19th century. Example: “The play's title character is named Ernest.”
name
1
A male given name of Germanic origin, especially popular in the 19th century.
"Devon Dunham of Hardeeville was found not guilty of murder in the shooting death of 77-year-old Ernest Stevens after a two-day trial May 25-27, the 14th Circuit Solicitor's Office said."
— Shellie Murdaugh, Man found not guilty of former Hardeeville fire chief's murder (2021)
""What's his name, your boyfriend?" "Ernest. Ernest Hemingway." The name was received in disparaging silence. Marlene said: "You wouldn't get me going out with a feller called Ernest. My granddad was Ernest.""
— P. D. James, Innocent Blood (1980)
"The play's title character is named Ernest."
How to use Ernest
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA traditional male first name, historically linked in meaning to the word "earnest."
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Etymology
From Old High German ernust, meaning "vigor" or "earnestness" — distantly related to the everyday word "earnest."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “Ernest” mean?
The word “Ernest” means a male given name of Germanic origin, especially popular in the 19th century. In plain terms, a traditional male first name, historically linked in meaning to the word "earnest.".
How do you pronounce “Ernest”?
“Ernest” is pronounced UR-nihst (/ˈɜː(ɹ)nɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “Ernest” in a sentence?
Here is “Ernest” used in a sentence: “The play's title character is named Ernest.”
What part of speech is “Ernest”?
“Ernest” is a name.
Where does the word “Ernest” come from?
The word “Ernest” comes from German. From Old High German ernust, meaning "vigor" or "earnestness" — distantly related to the everyday word "earnest.".
Is “Ernest” a common word?
“Ernest” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the origin of the name Ernest?
Ernest is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, and it was especially popular during the 19th century. It is often associated with the related English word "earnest," meaning serious and sincere.
Is Ernest still a popular name today?
Ernest was especially popular in the 19th century, but it has become far less common in everyday use since then. It occasionally appears today as a nod to old-fashioned or vintage naming trends.
What are common nicknames for Ernest?
The most common nickname for Ernest is Ernie, a shortened, affectionate form used in everyday address rather than formal contexts.
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