Serious or resolute
Derived as a diminutive of Ernest, it comes from the Germanic word 'eornost', meaning serious or determined. While it originated as a nickname, it became a standalone name in the 19th century, often associated with a sense of earnestness and sincerity.
About 18 boys were named Ernie in 2025.
Hall of Fame baseball player known as 'Mr. Sunshine'
Pulitzer Prize-winning American war correspondent
Professional golfer and former world number one
Beloved orange puppet and roommate of Bert · Sesame Street
Hufflepuff student and prefect · Harry Potter series
American actor known for Ghostbusters
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
