How common is the Bear surname?

There are approximately 18,000 people with the surname Bear in the United States.

Are there Bear soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 566 soldiers with the Bear surname appear in Civil War records.

Bear

Q: What does the surname Bear mean?

The surname Bear means "A surname derived from the animal name, indicating a fierce person or someone who hunted bears.". It is of English, German origin.

Descriptive

Meaning

A surname derived from the animal name, indicating a fierce person or someone who hunted bears.

Etymology

From Old English 'bera' and Old High German 'bero' meaning bear. The surname likely originated as a nickname for a strong or fierce person, or as an occupational name for bear hunters.

About the Bear Surname

A descriptive surname based on animal characteristics, common in both English and Germanic traditions. The name likely conveyed strength or ferocity in medieval contexts.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 18,000 bearers in the United States #856 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in English-speaking countries and German-speaking regions, with scattered populations worldwide.

Bear Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Bear Surname

John Bear

Jr.

Quick Facts

Origin: English, German
Classification: Descriptive
Earliest Record: 12th century
Estimated Bearers: 18,000

War Records

566 soldiers with the Bear surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →