Herbie is a diminutive form of the name Herbert, which originates from the Old German elements 'heri' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright'. The name Herbie gained significant cultural recognition through its association with the anthropomorphic 1963 Volkswagen Beetle featured in Disney's 'The Love Bug' series. This character, known for its sentience and racing capabilities, has become an iconic figure in popular culture, symbolizing charm, resilience, and the spirit of competition.