​
​
Advanced Search

German Names

  1. Berg

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "mountain, hill"

    • Description:

      Earthbound surname that few would make as first choice.
  2. Utz

    • Description:

      Utz is an uncommon masculine name with Germanic origins. Primarily found in German-speaking regions, it developed as a shortened form of names containing the element 'uodal' or 'ulrich', meaning 'heritage' or 'prosperity'. The name carries a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and distinctive 'tz' ending. Historically, Utz functioned more frequently as a surname than a given name. In popular culture, it gained some recognition through Peter Carey's novel 'The History of the Kelly Gang' and as a well-known brand of potato chips in the United States. Despite its brevity and distinctive character, Utz remains rare as a first name in most countries, appealing to parents seeking truly unique Germanic options.
  3. Bertel

    • Description:

      Bertel is a masculine name of Scandinavian and Germanic origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Berthold or Bartholomew. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark and Norway, Bertel has historical usage dating back centuries. The name derives from elements meaning "bright" or "famous" and "ruler" or "wolf," creating associations with strength and leadership. Bertel has a dignified, somewhat old-world charm while remaining concise and straightforward to pronounce. While never achieving widespread popularity outside Nordic countries, the name carries a distinguished quality and cultural specificity. In contemporary usage, Bertel might appeal to parents seeking a name with Scandinavian heritage, historical depth, and a distinctive yet accessible sound that works well internationally.
  4. Loew

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "lion"

    • Description:

      This variation of the surname Loeb works even better than the original as a first name, though any child named Loew will inevitably have to endure a lifetime's worth of "high and...." jokes. Other leonine options: Leopold or Lionel.
  5. Antje

    • Description:

      Antje is a feminine name of Dutch and Frisian origin, serving as a diminutive form of Anna. This charming name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' Particularly popular in the Netherlands and northern Germany, Antje has been a traditional choice for centuries in these regions. The pronunciation (typically AHN-tyuh) may present some challenges in English-speaking countries, where the name remains relatively uncommon. Despite its rarity in the United States and other Anglophone nations, Antje offers a distinctive European flair with its compact form and gentle sound. The name carries the warmth and timeless quality of its root name Anna, while providing a more distinctive alternative with strong cultural connections to Dutch heritage.
  6. Berenger

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "warrior fighting with a spear"

    • Description:

      Last-name-first-name with a romantic but dangerous edge.
  7. Benning

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "son of Bernhard"

    • Description:

      Conjures up the military image of Fort Benning in Georgia — or the surname of actress Annette.
  8. Wenzeslaus

    • Description:

      Wenzeslaus is an elaborate masculine name of Czech origin, representing the Latinized form of Wenceslaus or Václav. This regal name derives from the Old Slavic elements "ventie" (greater) and "slava" (glory), literally meaning "greater glory" or "more glorious." The name gained prominence through Saint Wenceslaus, a 10th-century Duke of Bohemia celebrated for his piety and generosity, famously memorialized in the Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas." While relatively uncommon outside Central Europe, particularly the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the name carries strong historical and cultural significance. Wenzeslaus projects dignity and nobility with its multisyllabic structure and historical associations. Though rather formal for everyday use, the name offers several friendly nickname options including Wenzel or Wence. It remains a distinctive choice that connects a child to Central European heritage.

  9. Gerhardine

    • Description:

      Gerhardine is the feminine form of Gerhard, a name of Germanic origin combining elements meaning "spear" and "brave" or "hardy." This elegant and uncommon female name carries a sense of strength and resilience inherited from its masculine counterpart. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Gerhardine has historical presence in German-speaking regions of Europe. The name offers distinctive nickname options including Gerda, Dina, or Geri. Though rare today, Gerhardine represents a sophisticated choice for parents seeking a name with both historical depth and a feminine quality while still conveying fortitude and determination.

  10. Wagner

    • Origin:

      German occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "wagon maker"

    • Description:

      Whether pronounced like the wag of a tail or as the correct German VAHG-ner, this might be something a devoted opera buff could consider as a middle name.
  11. Rodolf

    • Description:

      Rodolf is a traditional masculine name that represents an older spelling variant of Rudolf or Rudolph. It derives from Germanic elements meaning "fame" (hrod) and "wolf" (wulf), combining to signify "famous wolf." This spelling more closely resembles the original Germanic form before later variations emerged. Rodolf appears across various European cultures, particularly in Scandinavian, Germanic, and Eastern European naming traditions. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries today, it maintains popularity in parts of Europe. The name carries historical significance through figures like Rodolf of Habsburg and connects to folklore through associations with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Rodolf offers a distinguished, slightly exotic alternative to more common variations.
  12. Enrika

    • Description:

      Enrika is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Enrica, the Italian feminine form of Henry (Enrico in Italian). The name ultimately derives from Germanic roots meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household.' This spelling with a 'k' instead of a 'c' gives the traditional name a modern twist while maintaining its European elegance. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Enrika has some usage in Baltic countries, particularly Lithuania. The name carries a sophisticated international quality with its flowing three syllables and clear pronunciation. For parents seeking something distinctive with historical roots yet contemporary appeal, Enrika offers European charm with a unique spelling.
  13. Roth

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "redhead"

    • Description:

      This surname-name originated as a nickname for redheads.
  14. Meinhard

    • Description:

      Meinhard is a masculine Germanic name composed of the elements "mein" meaning "strength" or "force" and "hard" meaning "brave" or "hardy." Together, the name essentially translates to "strong and brave." Popular in medieval Germany and still found in German-speaking regions today, Meinhard has a rich historical lineage. Notable bearers include Saint Meinhard of Livonia, a 12th-century missionary and the first Bishop of Livonia. While not widely used internationally, the name maintains steady usage in countries like Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland. Meinhard projects qualities of resilience, determination, and traditional masculinity, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth and strong meaning.
  15. 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.
  16. Robertha

    • Description:

      Robertha is a feminine name derived from the masculine Robert, which comes from the Germanic elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'beraht' (bright), meaning 'bright fame' or 'famous brilliance.' This feminine adaptation adds the softer ending -ha to create a distinctly female version while maintaining the strong roots of its origin. Robertha offers a formal alternative to the more common Roberta, with both serving as feminine counterparts to Robert. The name peaked in popularity in the early 20th century but has since become relatively uncommon, giving it a vintage, distinguished quality. Robertha carries associations of strength, intelligence, and dignity. Those bearing this name might appreciate its classic heritage combined with its relative uniqueness in contemporary settings.

  17. Jarrell

    • Origin:

      German variation of Gerald

    • Description:

      Briefly faddish a few decades ago when Darrell was cool. But does have a creative connection to poet Randall Jarrell.
  18. Zahn

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "tooth"

    • Description:

      Newswoman Paula brought the surname Zahn to the public eye. It makes a dramatic, unusual Zane alternative -- though you may not want to enlighten your child as to its prosaic meaning.
  19. Gesine

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "strength of a spear"

    • Description:

      Clunky Gertrude is heading towards obscurity in the US, but here's a variation that might intrigue - Gesine, also spelled Gesina.
  20. Liesa

    • Origin:

      German diminutive of Elizabeth

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      The German short form Liesa is usually pronounced lee-za, but most people in America will say it like Lisa -- or, just to annoy you, Liza.