The Meaning of the Name Berniece
The name Berniece is a feminine given name derived from the Latin word “Bernice”, which means “bringer of victory”. It is also related to the Greek name Berenice, which means “bringer of victory” or “victorious one”. The name Berniece has been used in English-speaking countries since the 19th century.
Origin and History
The origin of the name Berniece is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in ancient Greece. In Greek mythology, Berenice was a daughter of King Agamemnon and Queen Clytemnestra. She was known for her beauty and courage, and was said to have been an inspiration to many warriors during the Trojan War. The name Berniece may also be derived from the Latin word “berenicius”, which means “victorious”.
The name Berniece first appeared in England in the late 19th century. It was popularized by British author George Eliot, who used it as a character’s name in her novel Middlemarch (1871). Since then, it has become increasingly popular in English-speaking countries.
Popularity
The name Berniece is not particularly common in the United States today. According to Social Security Administration data, it ranked at #7,845 among baby girl names in 2019. However, it is more popular in other parts of the world. For example, it is currently ranked #1,919 among baby girl names in France.
Famous People Named Berniece
There are several famous people who bear the name Berniece:
- Berniece Miracle – American actress best known for her role as Grandma Moses in The Miracle Worker (1962)
- Berniece Julien – Canadian singer-songwriter and actress
- Berniece Baker Miracle – American author and playwright