German Names

In literature identified with The Sorrows of Young Werther -- not much to wish on a child.

Werther

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, somewhat old-fashioned quality reminiscent of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This rare name has never been widely used in English-speaking countries but carries echoes of a bygone era. It might appeal to parents interested in reviving vintage names or honoring family heritage. The name conveys strength and steadfastness, with its solid consonant sounds giving it a substantial feel.

Wilbart

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.' This shortened variant maintains the friendly, approachable quality common to nickname forms while functioning as a standalone given name. In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Willi enjoyed considerable popularity throughout the 20th century, particularly among generations born between 1920-1960. The name carries a classic, somewhat vintage appeal in its native regions. Outside German-speaking areas, Willi might be chosen to honor German heritage or appreciated for its simple, friendly sound. The spelling variant 'Willy' is more common in English-speaking countries.

Willi

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 "peaceful resolution." This traditional name was borne by several saints and bishops in medieval England, contributing to its historical significance. 

While more common in Britain than America, Wilfrid has maintained a steady if modest presence throughout the centuries. The name carries an air of dignity and scholarly refinement, evoking images of wisdom and contemplation. 

Various spelling variations exist, including Wilfred and Wilfried, but this version preserves its Old English roots most authentically. Parents choosing Wilfrid often appreciate its historical depth, gentle strength, and the friendly nickname options like Will or Fred.

Wilfrid

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 guardian,' while Wilfred combines elements meaning 'will' or 'desire' with 'peace.' This blended name carries the strength and traditional appeal of both sources while creating something distinctive. Willifred has never achieved widespread popularity, remaining a rare choice that might appeal to parents seeking a traditional-sounding name with uniqueness. The name has a somewhat formal, old-world quality reminiscent of the Victorian era when longer masculine names were more common. With potential nicknames like Will, Fred, or Willie, Willifred offers versatility despite its formality.

Willifred

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. 

Zahn

We think the more spelling, Lorelei, works better.

Lauralei

The meaning is kind of silly, but the name might make a distinctive update of Janet.

Gannet

The usual form of Eleonara is Eleanora, with each syllable pronounced, but transposing, adding, or subtracting a vowel or syllable here or there works fine and adds to the international, feminine spin on a solid name.

Eleonara

New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas brought his Latinate name into the spotlight, and he has an equally unusual middle name--DONQUAIL.

Adalius

Fans of writer Paul Auster might consider this a worthy alternative to the trendy Austin.

Auster

Bright and outdoorsy or vintage with a hint of clunkiness, Wilda may be viewed as a spin on the English word "wild" and as an alternative to the equally untamed Swedish Vilda. Alternatively, it could have emerged from names such as Alwilda (or Alvilda), giving it the meaning "to strive" or "to battle".
 
Familiar in the US in the first have of the 20th-century, when it ranked in the Top 500, Wilda might work as an unexpected vintage name, similar in feel to Wilma, Hilda, and Winifred. Alternatively, it could be viewed as an option for those who enjoy the likes of Wilder, Prairie, and Cove.

Wilda

Verlin is an obscure name that found some use in the US in the early part of the 20th century, but now it and variation Verlyn are extinct, given to no baby boys in the US last year.

Verlyn Klinkenborg is a noted American author, whose books include The Rural Life and Several Short Sentences About Writing. Klinkenborg teaches writing at Yale.

Verlin

A huve is 40 acres of land, so the occupational name Hoover refers to the farmer who owned and worked it. Hoover also relates to the rock band, the vacuum cleaner, the dam, and former FBI head J. Edgar.
Though outside the Top 1000, Hoover is one of the fastest-rising boys' names.

Hoover

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.

Faber

Mathais is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Matthias or Mathias, which derive from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of God.' This alternative spelling maintains the traditional pronunciation while offering a slightly distinctive visual character. The name has biblical roots, as Matthias was the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot in the New Testament. While less common than the standard spelling Matthias, Mathais provides a subtle uniqueness while still connecting to the name's religious heritage and long history. The name has been used across numerous European cultures and carries a timeless quality that works well in contemporary contexts. Mathais conveys dignity and classical appeal, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a name with historical depth and spiritual significance.

Mathais

Mathi is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In South Indian traditions, particularly Tamil, it derives from Sanskrit roots meaning "intelligent" or "wise." In Finnish culture, it may serve as a diminutive form of Matthias or Matias, ultimately related to the Hebrew name Matthew meaning "gift of God." In some European contexts, it might be a variant spelling of Mati or Matty. The name remains relatively uncommon in Western countries but has steady usage in South India and parts of Europe. Mathi carries connotations of wisdom and intelligence while offering a distinctive yet accessible sound that works across different cultural contexts.

Mathi

Matthis is a masculine name that originated as a variant of Matthew, derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of God.' This variation is particularly popular in French-speaking regions and parts of Northern Europe, where it maintains the biblical connection while offering a distinctive spelling. Matthis gained moderate popularity in the early 2000s in countries like France, Germany, and Switzerland, appreciating for its classic roots with a contemporary feel. The name carries the strength and historical significance of its biblical origin while the unique spelling gives it a modern twist. Parents often choose Matthis for its international appeal, as it travels well across language boundaries while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.

Matthis

Matz is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning as a variation of Matthias or Matthew, which derive from the Hebrew name Mattityahu meaning 'gift of God'. Popular primarily in German-speaking regions and Scandinavian countries, Matz has a strong, concise sound that appeals to parents seeking short, distinctive names. In Sweden and Germany, it has sometimes been used as a nickname before evolving into a given name in its own right. The 'tz' ending gives it a distinctive Germanic quality compared to the more common Matt or Mats variants. While never extremely common, Matz has maintained steady recognition in Northern Europe, valued for its traditional roots combined with a somewhat modern, compact feel.

Matz

Simmy is a playful masculine name that typically functions as a diminutive of Simon, Simeon, or similar names derived from the Hebrew 'Shimon,' meaning 'he has heard.' With its cheerful '-y' ending, Simmy has an endearing, friendly quality that transitions well from childhood to adulthood. While sometimes used as a nickname, Simmy has established itself as a given name in its own right in some communities. The name has seen occasional use in Jewish families and in British English-speaking regions. Simmy carries a light-hearted, approachable energy while maintaining connections to its more formal counterparts. Its simplicity and warm sound make it appealing to parents seeking a name with an affectionate quality and easy pronunciation.

Simmy

German baby names on this list are those that have their roots in German and Germanic languages, which is not necessarily the same as names popular in modern Germany.

 include many choices that may not necessarily be German, such as the Latinate Mia and Sofia or the Irish Finn.

One of the top girl names in the US today is Emma, a German name. Along with Emma, German names in the US Top 500 for girls include Angela, Amelia, Alice, Adele, Amelia, Ella, Edith, Millie, and Matilda.

 is William. Along with William, the German boy names in the US Top 500 include Henry, Charles, Conrad, Henry, Leo, and Max.

 include Lina, Neele, Leni, and Ida. Popular boy names in Germany include Louis, Oskar, Moritz, and Anton.

 is near the head of the list in Germany as well as many other countries, and names of German origin such as Alice and Axel rank highly in many places in the Western World.

If you're looking for German names for your baby girl or baby boy, browse this full list of possibilities, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.

German names for girls and boys, with meanings and popularity, including top German names and unique German baby names in Germany, the US, and around the world. (Page 41)