Bertram

boyGermanic

Bertram is a boy name of Germanic origin, meaning “Bright raven”.

MeaningBright raven
GenderBoy
OriginGermanic
PronunciationBUR-trum
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, Germany, Denmark

Meaning and origin of Bertram

Bertram comes from the Germanic elements beraht, 'bright', and hraban, 'raven', the raven being a bird linked with wisdom in early Germanic lore. The Normans brought it to England, and it appears in Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well. It has a formal, Edwardian feel today, often shortened to Bertie or Bert.

Is Bertram a religious name?

Bertram has no religious background; it is a Germanic name used across Christian Europe.

How popular is Bertram?

Rare today, though vintage nicknames like Bertie have some appeal in Britain.

Gifts with the name Bertram

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Spellings and variants of Bertram

BertrandBertieBert

Names similar to Bertram

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Bertram mean?

Bertram means 'Bright raven'. It is of Germanic origin.

Does Bertram have a religious meaning?

Bertram has no religious background; it is a Germanic name used across Christian Europe.

How do you pronounce Bertram?

Bertram is pronounced BUR-trum.

Is Bertram a boy or girl name?

Bertram is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.