Ernie is a distinctive boys' name in United States, ranking #3935 in 2012 with 26 recorded births. This places Ernie in the top 28% of ranked US boys' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Rare. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 71 births ranking #1447. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 63.4%. In 2012, approximately 1 in every 72,947 boys born was named Ernie. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Ernie is the friendly short form of Ernest and inherits the same meaning of seriousness or determination. It feels warm, informal, and old-fashioned in an appealing way.
Once mostly a nickname, Ernie is sometimes used as a full given name as well. Its modern feel is more charming and nostalgic than formal.