German Names

Pippi Longstocking author Astrid Lindgren invented the name Ronja for her book Ronja, the Robber's Daughter. She was inspired by the lake Juronjaure, located in Norrbotten, Sweden.

Native-American feel via similarity to Winona.

Kiefer is a strong occupational surname associated with "24" star Kiefer Sutherland, but one that could well join the other 'er' surnames currently in favor. Keifer is a German surname transferred to first name use, derived from two old Germanic words, kien and forhe, both of which mean "pine tree."

This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).

Seventies comic-book-heroine-style name.

The American child given this name of four kings of Denmark, not to mention one so similar to that of the Harry Potter archvillain Lord Voldemort, might have to pay a large emotional import tax.

Muscular German name that never fully assimilated into American culture.

Veit is a masculine German name derived from the Latin name Vitus, which means 'lively' or 'full of life.' With ancient roots, this name has been used since medieval times, particularly in German-speaking regions including Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland. The name is associated with Saint Vitus, a Christian martyr from the early 4th century who became one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers venerated in Roman Catholicism. Veit experienced periods of popularity throughout German history but remains relatively uncommon in the modern era, especially outside German-speaking countries. The name's brevity gives it a strong, clear quality, while its historical depth provides cultural richness and connection to European heritage.

Sometimes pronounced MAY-nerd, which is death to a name. However, the name Maynard was given to 25 boys in 2022.

This is a Scandinavian variant of Margaret, and is pronounced MEH-teh or MET, rhyming with jet.

The connection to Freud is a strong one, but this German name has a strong and interesting sound and great nickname potential: Ziggy, Iggy, Sim, Sid...

Somewhat flat-footed form; go for the original.

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

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.

Timotheus is the original Greek form of Timothy, derived from the elements 'timao' meaning 'to honor' and 'theos' meaning 'God,' thus translating to 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' This masculine name appears in the New Testament as Paul's disciple and early Christian leader. While Timothy has remained popular throughout Western Christian history, the full Greek form Timotheus is considerably rarer, carrying a classical, scholarly air. The name has been used occasionally throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavian countries. Timotheus offers parents a way to connect with biblical and classical traditions while providing the friendly nickname options of Tim or Theo. Though uncommon in contemporary usage, it appeals to those seeking a name with deep historical roots and spiritual significance.

Associated with Reynard the cunning fox in medieval European animal tales. Reynard can make an unusual yet historic choice for a modern boy, a modern day Richard or Robert.

More unusual than Justin, less word-like than Justice, this New Testament name could make an intriguing choice. After being off the popularity lists from 1904 to 1993, it is now being used in steady numbers.

This form of Theodoric, familiar via Marlene, is a possible German import. It is an Anglicized ancestor of Derek and all its variations. A noted bearer was acclaimed classical German baritone and conductor Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, and there have been Dietrichs in Henry James's The Princess Casamassima,/em and more recently on the TV show Psych.

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.

Abelard brings to mind Peter/Pierre Abelard, the great twelfth century Breton scholastic philosopher and theologian, who was equally celebrated for his tragic love affair with Heloise--one of the world's most famous love stories.