German Names
Across 35 pages
of 35
Wenzeslaus
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"…
Wendell
German, English
"wanderer; to travel, to proceed"
This name has hardly been used since Wendell Willkie ran for president in 1940, and it may not quite be ready for revival yet. Still, clunky grandpa names like Lionel, Douglas, Benedict, Carl, and…
Werner
German
"protecting army"
Formal name lacking any sparkle or sheen.
Wetzel
Wetzel is a masculine surname that has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage. It derives from German origins, specifically from a diminutive form of the name Werner, meaning 'army defender'…
Werther
German
"worthy warrior"
In literature identified with The Sorrows of Young Werther -- not much to wish on a child.
Wilbur
English, German
"wild boar"
Clunky yet cuddly, Wilbur is a stylish name in the UK where it currently sits in the Top 600, as cool as Rupert or Wilfred. Its merits are starting to be rediscovered in the US, where it was last…
Wilbart
Wilbart is a masculine name with Germanic roots, likely a variant of Wilbert or Gilbert. These names combine elements meaning "will," "bright," "brilliant," or "noble." Wilbart has a distinguished,…
Willi
Willi is a masculine name primarily used in German-speaking countries as a diminutive form of Wilhelm, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'will' or 'desire' and 'helmet' or 'protection.'…
Wilfrid
Spelling variation of Wilfred, English
"desires peace"
Wilfrid is a distinguished masculine name of Anglo-Saxon origin, combining the elements "will" (determination or desire) and "frid" (peace), creating the meaningful combination "desires peace" or…
Willifred
Willifred is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variation or combination of the classic names William and Wilfred. William, of Germanic origin, means 'resolute protector' or 'determined…
Wilhelm
German variation of William
"resolute protection"
This dignified German form of William belonged to two German Emperors and Kings of Prussia, as well as a host of other important historical figures. These include composer (Wilhelm) Richard Wagner,…
Kleo
Variation of Cleo, Greek
"glory"
Khloe : Chloe :: Kleo : Cleo
Wilmer
German
"determined fame"
The visibility of actor Wilmer (That 70s Show) Valderrama has highlighted this name, but it's not likely to spread because of its similarity to the feminine (and dated) Wilma.
Wolf
Animal name or diminutive of Wolfgang, German
" traveling wolf"
Wolf is a name with a split personality. It can be seen as one of the fierce animal names, like Fox and Bear and Puma, with a touch of the werewolf, or it can be viewed as a quieter, Wolf Blitzer…
Wolfgang
German
"traveling wolf"
A name with plenty of grandeur, but a playful nickname, Wolfgang blends sophistication, wildness, and gothic imagery. While it may feel surprising in this century, it does have an allure for those…
Zahn
German
"tooth"
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.
Lauralei
German
"alluring, temptress"
We think the more spelling, Lorelei, works better.
Hannelore
German
"grace + god is my light"
A pretty and substantial German smoosh name, a combination of Hanne and Eleonore. Most popular in Germany from the 1930s to the 1950s. Former German Chancellors Helmut Kohl and Helmut Schmidt both…
Gannet
German
"goose"
The meaning is kind of silly, but the name might make a distinctive update of Janet.
Amaury
French form of Amalric
"work power"
Friendlier french form of ancient Germanic royal name Amalric or Emmerich.