The Meaning of the Name Bernice

The name Bernice is a feminine given name derived from the Greek word “Berenike”, which means “bringer of victory”. It is also related to the Latin word “fortuna”, meaning “luck” or “fortune”. The name has been popular in Europe since the Middle Ages and was used by several royal families in the past.

History of the Name

The name Bernice first appeared in ancient Greece, where it was used as a female version of the male name Berenike. It was popularized by Queen Berenice II of Egypt, who reigned from 246-221 BC. She was known for her beauty and intelligence and was highly respected by her people. Her husband, King Ptolemy III Euergetes, named a star after her in honor of their marriage.

In the Middle Ages, the name Bernice became popular among European royalty. It was used by several members of the House of Habsburg, including Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and Archduchess Maria Anna of Austria. In England, it was used by Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Anne.

Popularity

Today, Bernice is still a popular name in many countries around the world. In the United States, it ranked #845 on the Social Security Administration’s list of most popular baby names in 2019. It is also popular in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and other European countries.

Famous People Named Bernice

There are many famous people who have borne this name throughout history. Some notable examples include:

  • Bernice Rubens (1928-2004), Welsh novelist
  • Bernice Johnson Reagon (born 1942), American singer and civil rights activist
  • Bernice Liu (born 1979), Hong Kong actress and singer
  • Bernice Burgos (born 1980), Puerto Rican model and entrepreneur

Conclusion

The name Bernice is a beautiful and meaningful choice for any little girl. Its long history as a royal name gives it an air of sophistication and elegance that will make your daughter stand out from the crowd.

Whether you choose to honor its Greek roots or its more modern associations with famous people like Bernice Rubens or Bernice Burgos, your daughter will be proud to carry such an inspiring name.

By Ava Isabella Hartley

Ava Isabella Hartley is a renowned expert in the field of onomastics, the study of names and their meanings, with a particular focus on baby names. She holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Cambridge and has over 15 years of experience in the study of etymology, name trends, and cultural naming practices.

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