Brave as a bear
Bernita is a diminutive form of Bernadette, which is the feminine version of Bernard. It combines the Germanic elements 'berin' (bear) and 'hard' (brave or hardy), resulting in a name that signifies strength and courage.
Less common today
Bernita isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #5,579 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
A character in the novel 'The Street' · The Street
Former Mayor of High Point, North Carolina
