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Berenice
Pronounced bair-ə-NEE-seh /ˌbɛr.əˈni.sɛ/Medium
Meaning: From Greek Berenike (Macedonian form of Pherenike), 'bringer of victory' — borne by Ptolemaic queensHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Berenice comes from Greek Berenike, the Macedonian form of Pherenike, 'bringer of victory'. Borne by Ptolemaic queens of Egypt (one of whose tresses became the constellation Coma Berenices), it survives richly in Spanish-speaking use, often said bair-eh-NEE-seh.
In the U.S. it appears chiefly in Latino families. Rare, victory at the root, and constellation-crowned.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Berenice II of Egypt (c. 266–221 BC)Ptolemaic queen whose offered hair named the constellation Coma Berenices.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Berenice mean?
Berenice is Greek for 'bringer of victory', from Pherenike.
How do you pronounce Berenice?
In Spanish-speaking use it's said bair-ə-NEE-seh /ˌbɛr.əˈni.sɛ/ — four syllables; English speakers also say bair-ə-NEESS.
Is Berenice a boy or girl name?
Berenice is a girl's name.
How popular is Berenice?
Berenice is a rare name in the U.S., used in Latino families.