Erna

Erna is a feminine first name considered a short form of Ernesta, the feminine variant of the old German name Ernst. The meaning of the name Erna can be interpreted as "the Serious" or "the Determined," derived from the Old High German term ernust, which means "seriousness, zeal, strife, struggle."

What does the name Erna mean?

The first name Erna is a short form of Ernesta, the feminine form of the historical name Ernst. Erna symbolizes "the Serious" or "the Determined" and has its roots in the Old High German word ernust, which means "seriousness, zeal, strife, struggle." Around the year 1900, the name Erna was one of the most popular first names in Germany, but it lost its appeal by the 1940s. However, in recent years, Erna has been regaining popularity. Historically, the name in Germany was often negatively connoted, particularly due to the fictional character "Klein Erna" and the so-called "Klein-Erna jokes." These jokes are gradually being forgotten, leading to a positive reassessment of the name Erna. Besides Germany, the name is also found in the Netherlands and Scandinavian countries. Various diminutive forms of Erna exist, such as Ernestin, Ernestina, Ernestine, Ernsta, Ernstina, and Ernstine.

Where does the name Erna come from?

Erna is a feminine first name of Old High German origin, meaning "the Serious" or "the Determined." The Old High German word ernust combines terms for seriousness, zeal, strife, and struggle. The name is common in languages such as Danish, German, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, and other Scandinavian languages.

How do you pronounce Erna?

The name Erna is pronounced as two syllables in the German language and has a compact structure. The common pronunciation "Er-na" [ˈɛʁna] begins with an open sound and ends with a clear second syllable. This dense sound form gives the name a strong expression. Erna conveys a down-to-earth and traditional character – calm, determined, and present.

When is the name day of Erna?

The name day of Erna is celebrated on January 12 and April 14.

Popularity

Erna was a popular feminine first name in Germany for many years. As early as the late 19th century, Erna was among the most sought-after names and even reached the top position in the early 20th century. The historical peak was reached in 1906 when Erna ranked first. However, in the following years, the popularity of the name declined.

Nicknames & pet names

Erni / Ernie / Nana / Örnat / Örni

Similar first names

Famous people

• Erna Berger (German opera singer)
• Erna Brodber (writer from Jamaica)
• Erna Denera (German soprano)
• Erna Diez (archaeologist from Austria)
• Erna Dorothea Luise Sack (soprano singer)
• Erna Dzeba (singer)
• Erna Engel-Baiersdorf (sculptor)
• Erna Fentsch (actress from Germany)
• Erna Florencia Becker (actress from Spain)
• Erna Fuehrer (German doctor)
• Erna Hitzberger (German designer)
• Erna Honigberger (German violinist)
• Erna Maisack (German athlete)
• Erna Mangold (actress from Austria)
• Erna Nitter (German actress)
• Erna Raupach-Petersen (German actress)
• Erna Schillig (Swiss artist)
• Erna Schurer (actress from Italy)
• Erna Schweigl (Italian luger)
• Erna Steuri (Swiss alpine ski racer)