Ern English - Male Diminutive of Earnest: A variant spelling of the German Earnest, meaning serious determined, earnestness or vigor, from the Old German Ernust. Famous bearer: The hero of Oscar Wilde's comedy 'The Importance of Being Earnest'. Rated 2.5 out of 4 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ Rating: 2.50 (2 votes) Add to favorites