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German Girl Names

  1. Maxi

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "greatest"

    • Description:

      Diminutive of Maxine, Maxima or Maximiliane
  2. Meike

    • Origin:

      German variation of Mary

    • Meaning:

      "bitter"

    • Description:

      Pronounced MY-keh, this German form of Mary was very popular a few decades ago. Might make a fresh alternative to Mikayla and sisters. The Frisian version is Maike, and the Biblical male Micah sounds the same.
  3. Valda

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "battle heroine"

    • Description:

      Seventies comic-book-heroine-style name.
  4. Baldwin

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "brave friend"

    • Description:

      Writer James Baldwin could make this an inspirational choice for a child of either sex.
  5. Alda

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Aldo, German, or Old Norse

    • Meaning:

      "old or wave"

    • Description:

      Alda's brother name Aldo has been a mainstay of the U.S. popularity chart for decades now, and the related Alden is soaring up as well. This version has never really caught on. (Maybe it's the association with Alan Alda: great actor, unlikely namesake for a little girl.) However, there is possible hope now that Alba and Alma are on the rise. Aida and Arden are more familiar alternatives.
  6. Jutte

    • Description:

      Jutte is a feminine name of medieval Germanic origin, representing an old form of Judith or Jutta. The name derives from the Hebrew 'Yehudit' meaning 'woman from Judea' or 'Jewish woman.' Jutte was relatively common in medieval Germany and the Low Countries, particularly among nobility and gentry. Historical records show several notable women named Jutte or Jutta throughout the Middle Ages, including saints and aristocrats. The name gradually declined in usage after the Renaissance but remained preserved in family histories and historical documents. Today, Jutte is extremely rare, offering a distinctive medieval option for parents interested in historical European names with authentic roots and a strong, concise sound.

  7. Druella

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "elfin vision"

    • Description:

      A little too close to Cruella.
  8. Mareike

    • Origin:

      German variation of Mary

    • Meaning:

      "bitter"

    • Description:

      Mary has hundreds of variations around the world, and this German form, pronounced Ma-RYE-keh, is virtually unknown in English-speaking lands. A possible alternative to Mariah?
  9. Ermentrude

    • Origin:

      French version of Germanic Ermendrud

    • Meaning:

      "universal strength"

    • Description:

      Ermentrude was the name of two medieval queens of France. Despite these distinguished beginnings, this antique name is unlikely to catch on with contemporary parents, perhaps because the first syllable may sound unattractive to the modern ear and the last two syllables are the equivalent of intrude. Then there's that rude final syllable. English variant Ermintrude is equally unlikely to find favor.
  10. Reta

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "shaken"

    • Description:

      With a soft e, sounds like an affected pronunciation of Rita.
  11. Linchen

    • Description:

      Linchen is a feminine name with Germanic roots, functioning primarily as an affectionate diminutive form of names like Caroline, Karoline, Lina, or Angelina in German-speaking regions. The suffix "-chen" is a traditional German diminutive that conveys endearment and smallness. Historically used more as a nickname than a formal given name, Linchen carries a sweet, tender quality. Outside German-speaking countries, it remains quite rare, giving it an distinctive character for those seeking uncommon names. The name's soft sounds and gentle associations make it appealing despite its rarity. For families with German heritage, Linchen can serve as a connection to linguistic and cultural traditions.

  12. Karoline

    • Origin:

      German and Scandinavian variation of Caroline, French

    • Meaning:

      "free man"

    • Description:

      Karoline is the form of the classic Caroline commonly used in Germany and throughout Scandinavia, where it is popular. It's an acceptable if not traditional spelling variation, given to nearly 100 baby girls in the US last year, versus almost 3000 named Caroline.
  13. Josepha

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Joseph, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"

    • Description:

      Josepha is less heard in this country than in other parts of the world, seen as a slightly awkward feminization a la Ricarda and Benjamina. In the U.S., Josephine or Joanna is the more usual feminine form of Joseph, though you might consider Josepha if you want to break rank.
  14. Tahnia

    • Description:

      Tahnia is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variation of Tania (derived from the Russian Tatiana, meaning 'fairy queen' or from a Latin family name), or it could have roots in various cultural traditions including Aboriginal Australian languages. The spelling with an 'h' gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining the familiar pronunciation of Tania. Tahnia remains relatively uncommon across most English-speaking countries, offering parents a recognizable yet unique option. The name has a gentle, feminine sound with an exotic flair that appeals to those seeking something slightly unconventional. Despite its rarity, Tahnia feels accessible and contemporary, with the potential for nicknames like Tah or Nia.
  15. Neele

    • Origin:

      German short form of Cornelia

    • Meaning:

      "horn"

    • Description:

      Cute tomboyish diminutive that's popular in Germany but has not spread far. An interesting choice for the parent who wants an elaborate feminine proper name with a modern short form.
  16. Ruperta

    • Description:

      Ruperta is the feminine form of Rupert, originating from Germanic roots meaning "bright fame" or "shining glory." The name comes from the ancient elements 'hruod' (fame) and 'berht' (bright). Though rare in modern usage, Ruperta has historical significance particularly in European aristocratic families. The name reached modest popularity during the Middle Ages but has since become quite uncommon. Ruperta projects an air of classical dignity and old-world charm. In Spanish-speaking countries, it might be occasionally encountered, though even there it remains an uncommon choice for baby girls. Those named Ruperta often appreciate the name's distinctive quality and rich heritage.
  17. Emmi

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Emma and Emily

    • Description:

      With the enormous popularity of Emily and Emma, we're sure to see more of Emmi, Emmie, Emme, and Emmy, whether as short forms or standing on their own.
  18. Laurice

    • Description:

      Laurice is a feminine name with connections to the Latin word 'laurus,' meaning 'laurel tree' or 'sweet bay tree.' It can be considered a variation of Laura, Lauren, or Laurel, with the distinctive '-ice' suffix adding a unique touch. While not widely used today, Laurice enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s. The name has a gentle, refined quality that bridges vintage charm and modern elegance. Its similarity to more common names makes it accessible, while its relative rarity gives it distinction. Laurice might appeal to parents seeking a name with classical roots but a softer, more uncommon presentation than popular Laura-derived alternatives.
  19. Friederika

    • Description:

      Friederika is a feminine name of Germanic origin, serving as a variant of Frederica, the feminine form of Frederick. The name means 'peaceful ruler' or 'power of peace,' combining the elements 'fridu' (peace) and 'ric' (ruler, power). This spelling with the 'ie' combination reflects German linguistic traditions. The name has historical significance in European royal families, particularly in Prussia and other German states. While less common in English-speaking countries, Friederika remains in use in Germany, Austria, and other parts of Europe. The name carries an elegant, classical feel with its four melodious syllables. Friederika offers numerous nickname possibilities including Frieda, Frida, Rika, or Rika, providing versatility for different stages of life.

  20. Amelina

    • Origin:

      Old German form of Emmeline and Amelia

    • Meaning:

      "work"

    • Description:

      Now that the range of names including the modern Emmeline and Amelia -- relatives of each other, but of neither Emily nor Emma -- has become so fashionable, the original root name Amelina is also due up for reconsideration. A lovely, delicate choice, its main disadvantage is that it sounds like a modern elaboration rather than the original name. And perhaps that it will be so often misspelled and mistaken for other forms of itself. But it is a lovely name with deep roots.