German Favorites
- Egon
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"strong with a sword"Description:
Muscular German name that never fully assimilated into American culture.
- Ziska
Description:
Ziska is an uncommon feminine name with historical roots. It likely originated as a diminutive form of the Czech name Zikmund (Sigismund in English). The name gained some historical recognition through Jan Žižka, the famous 15th-century Hussite military leader from Bohemia. As a feminine name, Ziska has remained quite rare internationally, appearing occasionally in Czech, German, and other Central European cultures. In modern usage, the name may appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name with Slavic heritage. Ziska has a melodic quality with its 'z' sound and crisp ending, though its rarity means many may be unfamiliar with its pronunciation or cultural associations.
- Pepin
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"awe-inspiring"Description:
Most famous as the name of King Pepin the Short, this choice might feel somewhat belittling. The even-shorter form is Pippin, a name adopted for musical theater, and the Dutch form Pepijn is in that country's Top 100.
- 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.
- Amory
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Theodor
Description:
Theodor is a classic masculine name of Greek origin meaning "gift of God," derived from the elements "theos" (God) and "doron" (gift). This spelling variant is particularly popular in Germanic and Scandinavian countries, including Germany, Austria, Norway, and Sweden. While the Theodore spelling is more common in English-speaking regions, Theodor has gained appreciation for its sophisticated European flair. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including composer Theodor Adorno, writer Theodor Herzl, and children's author Theodor Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss). Theodor offers parents a timeless yet distinguished name option with appealing nickname possibilities including Theo, Ted, and Teddy.
- Neele
Origin:
German short form of CorneliaMeaning:
"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.
- Hannele
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Finnish diminutive of Hannah or Johanna
- Faber
Description:
Faber is a distinguished masculine name with Latin origins meaning 'craftsman' or 'artisan.' This occupational surname has transitioned to occasional use as a first name, carrying connotations of skill, creativity, and workmanship. The name evokes images of someone who creates with their hands, suggesting both artistic and practical abilities. Faber has connections to the Latin phrase 'homo faber,' meaning 'man the creator,' which emphasizes human ingenuity. While uncommon as a given name, it has gained modest traction among parents seeking distinctive names with substantive meanings. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its rarity. Faber also carries subtle literary associations through Faber and Faber publishing house, giving it intellectual undertones that appeal to book-loving parents.
- Haydn
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"heathen"Description:
Some music-minded parents might consider this especially as a middle name, to honor the great Austrian composer.
- Haldis
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"purposeful"Description:
A German name with little chance of American adoption.
