The name Herbert is a classic and distinguished male name of Germanic origin, meaning "bright army" or "illustrious warrior." Pronounced as HER-bert (/ˈhɜrbərt/), the name has been borne by several notable figures throughout history, adding to its timeless appeal. Among these are the British novelist Herbert George Wells, known for his contributions to science fiction, and Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. Common variations include Bert and Herb. While its popularity has declined significantly in recent decades—peaking in the early 20th century—the name still carries a sense of old-world charm and sophistication. In recent years, Herbert has seen modest usage in the United States, ranking 2157th with 66 occurrences in 2023. This enduring name continues to be a choice for parents seeking a traditional yet strong moniker for their baby boy.
Herbert Clark Hoover, a self-made man and member of the Republican Party, was the 31st president of the United States, serving during the Great Depression from 1929 to 1933. |
Herbert von Karajan was an influential Austrian conductor known for his long tenure with the Berlin Philharmonic and his extensive recordings, making him one of the top-selling classical music recording artists of all time. |
Herbert Alexander Simon was an influential American political scientist and Nobel Prize winner whose work spanned across computer science, economics, and cognitive psychology, with notable contributions to decision-making theories. |
Herbert Marcuse was a German-American philosopher and social critic associated with the Frankfurt School, known for his critiques of capitalism, modern technology, Soviet Communism, and popular culture. |
Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree was a prominent English actor and theatre manager. |
Herbert Norman Howells was a renowned English composer, organist, and teacher, best known for his extensive collection of Anglican church music. |
Sir Herbert Baker was an influential English architect known for his significant impact on South African architecture and his design of prominent government buildings in New Delhi. |
Sir Herbert Edward Read was an influential English art historian, poet, and philosopher, known for his writings on art and his role in founding the Institute of Contemporary Arts. |
Herbert Henry Lehman was an American financier and Democratic politician who served as the 45th governor of New York and represented New York in the United States Senate. |
Herbert Ferber was an influential American Abstract Expressionist known for his work as a sculptor and painter, and for his significant contribution to the New York School art movement. |
Sir Herbert Butterfield was an influential English historian and philosopher of history, known for his work on historiography and the impact of Christian influences on historical perspectives. |
Herbert George Ponting was a professional photographer known for capturing iconic images during Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition to the South Pole. |
Herbert Leroy Needleman was a pioneering pediatrician and researcher known for his work on lead poisoning and its impact on child development. |
Herbert Austin, 1st Baron Austin, was an English automobile designer and founder of the Austin Motor Company, known for his significant contributions to the automotive industry. |
Herbert Dickens Ryman Jr. was an American artist and Disney Imagineer known for his work in watercolor, oils, and pen & ink sketches, and for creating the first illustrations of Walt Disney's vision for Disneyland in 1953. |