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German Girl Names

  1. Klarissa

    • Description:

      Klarissa is a feminine variant of Clarissa, derived from the Latin word 'clarus' meaning 'bright, clear, or famous.' This spelling with a 'K' gives the classic name a modern twist while maintaining its elegant sound. Klarissa shares the same noble heritage as Clara and Claire, but offers a more elaborate and distinctive option. While less common than the traditional spelling, Klarissa has seen occasional usage in English-speaking countries, particularly since the 1990s. The name conveys a sense of clarity and brightness, suggesting a person with a clear vision and bright personality. Its melodic quality and distinctive spelling make it appeal to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon.
  2. Elske

    • Origin:

      German and Frisian short form of Elizabeth

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      Elizabeth is a name of hundreds of variations, but this German name for girls, redolent of the Olde Country, is unfamiliar in the U.S. and likely to remain so.
  3. Odila

    • Description:

      Odila is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from the root 'od' meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune.' It's the feminine form of Odilo, and is related to names like Odilia and Ottilie. The name carries historical significance through Saint Odilia (or Odile), the patron saint of Alsace who lived in the 7th-8th centuries and was known for founding the Hohenburg Abbey. Despite its ancient roots, Odila remains relatively uncommon in modern English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has maintained modest usage in parts of Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavian countries. With its melodic three-syllable pronunciation (oh-DEE-lah) and connection to meanings of prosperity, Odila offers an option that balances historical depth with a feminine, flowing sound that works well in contemporary contexts.

  4. Tabea

    • Description:

      Tabea is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Aramaic name 'Tabitha,' meaning 'gazelle' or 'doe.' In the New Testament, Tabitha (called Dorcas in Greek) was a woman known for her charitable works who was raised from the dead by the apostle Peter. The Tabea spelling is particularly common in German-speaking countries and parts of Eastern Europe. The name carries connotations of grace, gentleness, and compassion through both its meaning and biblical associations. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, Tabea has maintained consistent popularity in Germany and Switzerland. The name appeals to parents seeking a name with biblical roots that isn't overly common, yet carries positive attributes of kindness and elegance.
  5. Luzie

    • Description:

      Luzie is a charming feminine name of German origin, primarily used in Germany and other German-speaking regions. It evolved as a diminutive form of Luzia, which is the German variant of Lucia, ultimately derived from the Latin word "lux" meaning "light." Luzie carries the same luminous associations as its root name, symbolizing brightness, clarity, and radiance. While less common internationally than Lucia or Lucy, Luzie has maintained steady popularity in Germany, especially since the 1990s. The name has a playful, endearing quality while still maintaining an air of classic elegance. Parents often choose Luzie for its sweet sound, positive meaning, and the balance it strikes between uniqueness and familiarity.
  6. Amory

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "industrious"

    • Description:

      Amory is best known for the hero of Fitzgerald's 1920 This Side of Paradise, Princeton student Amory Blaine. Amory is in some danger of being borrowed by the girls, a la Avery. Alternate spellings Amori or Amorie also relate to the Latin word for love.
  7. 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.
  8. Amori

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Amory

    • Meaning:

      "industrious"

    • Description:

      Amori puts a feminine, nickname-y spin on the unisex Amory -- though the amiable name does not really need lightening up.
  9. Franka

    • Description:

      Franka is a feminine name with Germanic origins, serving as the feminine form of Frank. The name derives from the tribal name of the Franks, meaning "free one" or "free person." Popular throughout Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Germany, Poland, Croatia, and neighboring countries, Franka carries a strong, independent spirit in its meaning. The name has a classic European sensibility while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Franka offers a distinctive alternative to more common feminine names while still being easily recognizable and pronounceable. Its cross-cultural presence makes it an option for parents seeking a name with international appeal and a powerful meaning.

  10. Rheta

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "eloquent speaker"

    • Description:

      See RETA.
  11. Bertina

    • Description:

      Bertina is a feminine name with Germanic origins, serving as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. It can be considered a feminine variant of names like Albert, Bertram, or Robert, or a diminutive of Roberta or Alberta. Popular primarily in the mid-20th century, Bertina has since become less common, giving it a vintage charm. The name carries connotations of intelligence and radiance, thanks to its etymological connection to brightness. In Italy and Spain, Bertina may also be used as a nickname for names like Albertina or Robertina. While not widely used in English-speaking countries today, it retains appeal for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name with European roots.
  12. Maxi

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "greatest"

    • Description:

      Diminutive of Maxine, Maxima or Maximiliane
  13. Tatjana

    • Origin:

      German, Finnish, Estonian, Slovene, Croatian, Serbian

    • Meaning:

      "from Latin family name"

    • Description:

      Tatjana is an interesting twist on an already uncommon name, borne by German-born supermodel Tatjana Patitz. Note that as j is pronounced as y in German, the name is spoken just like sisters Tatiana and Tatyana.
  14. Gretta

    • Description:

      Gretta is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Greta, which itself originated as a short form of Margaret or Margareta. With Germanic and Greek roots, the name ultimately derives from 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' Gretta has a classic, slightly vintage feel with its double consonants giving it a more substantial presence than Greta. While never reaching tremendous popularity, the name enjoyed modest usage throughout the 20th century. It carries associations with iconic figures like Greta Garbo, lending it a touch of timeless glamour. Gretta balances familiarity with distinctiveness, offering a recognizable yet not overly common option that works well across various ages.
  15. Lauralei

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "alluring, temptress"

    • Description:

      We think the more spelling, Lorelei, works better.
  16. Hildegarde

    • Origin:

      French from German

    • Meaning:

      "comrade in arms"

    • Description:

      French form of Hildegard
  17. Berti

    • Description:

      Berti is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. It can function as a diminutive form of names like Alberta, Roberta, or Bertha, or stand as an independent name. In Italian, it serves as a nickname for Umberto or Roberto, while in Hungarian, it's a familiar form of Berta or Albert. The name carries a vintage charm and friendly quality with its ending 'i' creating a naturally affectionate sound. Berti has never been widely popular but maintains appeal for those seeking something distinctive yet approachable. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots. The Germanic elements that form its foundation relate to 'bright' or 'famous,' lending the name a subtly positive meaning beyond its diminutive nature.
  18. Christa

    • Origin:

      Short form of Christina

    • Description:

      Fading since the 1970s -- but still a lovely name.
  19. Clotilda

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "famous in battle"

    • Description:

      Old and aristocratic European name that would be tough for an American kid to pull off.
  20. Valda

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "battle heroine"

    • Description:

      Seventies comic-book-heroine-style name.