German Girl Names
- Meike
Origin:
German variation of MaryMeaning:
"bitter"Description:
Pronounced MY-keh, this German form of Mary was very popular a few decades ago. Might make a fresh alternative to Mikayla and sisters. The Frisian version is Maike, and the Biblical male Micah sounds the same.
- Bertina
Description:
Bertina is a feminine name with Germanic origins, serving as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. It can be considered a feminine variant of names like Albert, Bertram, or Robert, or a diminutive of Roberta or Alberta. Popular primarily in the mid-20th century, Bertina has since become less common, giving it a vintage charm. The name carries connotations of intelligence and radiance, thanks to its etymological connection to brightness. In Italy and Spain, Bertina may also be used as a nickname for names like Albertina or Robertina. While not widely used in English-speaking countries today, it retains appeal for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name with European roots.
- Liese
Origin:
German and Dutch diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
A short form of Elisabeth, similar in sound to the 60s favorite Lisa.
- Resi
Description:
Resi is a feminine name of Germanic origin, predominantly used as a diminutive form of Theresa or Teresa. The name carries the warm, affectionate quality typical of diminutive forms, making it feel both friendly and approachable. In German-speaking countries, particularly Austria and Bavaria, Resi has historical usage as a standalone name. The name possesses a cheerful, melodic quality with its soft sounds and simple pronunciation. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Resi maintains popularity in parts of Europe where German influences are strong. The name's brevity and sweet sound make it an appealing choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet easy to pronounce.
- Susanne
Description:
Susanne is a feminine name representing a French and German variation of Susan, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' With its elegant double 'n' and silent 'e' ending, Susanne offers a sophisticated European flair compared to the more straightforward Susan or Suzanne. The name enjoyed modest popularity throughout the mid-20th century, particularly in Germanic and Scandinavian countries. Susanne carries the same gentle, timeless quality as other forms of the name while providing a distinctive spelling. The name has musical associations through Leonard Cohen's famous song 'Suzanne,' which has sometimes been rendered as 'Susanne' in translations. With its balanced two-syllable structure and soft consonants, Susanne presents an option that feels both classic and refined, appealing to parents seeking a name with cross-cultural appeal and enduring elegance.
- Amilia
Description:
Amilia is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Amelia, which derives from the Germanic word 'amal' meaning 'work' or 'industrious.' This alternate spelling maintains the melodic quality of the original while offering a slightly different visual presentation. Amilia shares the rich history of Amelia, which has been used since medieval times and was popularized by figures like aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. The name has a gentle, flowing sound that contributes to its romantic appeal. While less common than the standard spelling, Amilia appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a subtle twist to make it more distinctive.
- Theresia
Description:
Theresia is a feminine name with ancient Greek and Latin origins. It's a traditional variant of Teresa or Theresa, derived from the Greek word "therizo" meaning "to harvest" or possibly from the Greek island of Thera (Santorini). The name carries a sense of classical elegance and dignity. Theresia has been particularly popular in Germanic and Nordic countries, as well as parts of Eastern Europe. While less common than Teresa in English-speaking countries, it offers a more distinctive alternative with the same rich historical connections. The name is associated with Saint Teresa of Ávila and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, giving it strong religious significance in Catholic traditions.
- Adolpha
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"noble wolf"Description:
Nein.
- Liesa
Origin:
German diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"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.
- Constanz
Description:
Constanz is a refined name with Latin origins, derived from 'constantia' meaning 'steadfastness' or 'constancy.' This variant spelling of the more common Constance gives the name a distinctive European flair, particularly reminiscent of German or Austrian naming conventions. The name carries connotations of reliability, perseverance, and unwavering determination—qualities admired across cultures. While traditionally used for girls, the streamlined spelling without the final 'e' or 'a' gives it a potential unisex quality in contemporary usage. Though not widely used, Constanz appeals to parents seeking a classic name with a modern twist. The name also connects to historical figures and places, including the German city of Konstanz, adding geographic and cultural significance to its appeal.
- 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.
- Lilli
Description:
Lilli is a charming feminine name with multiple origins. It's primarily considered a diminutive of Elizabeth or Lillian, but also stands as a name in its own right in many European countries, particularly in Scandinavian and Germanic regions. The name evokes imagery of the lily flower, symbolizing purity and innocence. Short yet distinctive, Lilli balances sweetness with sophistication and works well across cultures. While less common than Lily or Lillie in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady popularity in northern Europe. Its simplicity, floral connection, and international appeal make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that is both delicate and unfussy.
- Tresa
Description:
Tresa is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Teresa or Theresa, which derives from Greek origins possibly meaning "harvester" or "summer." This streamlined spelling offers a more phonetic approach to the name while maintaining its classic essence. Tresa first gained modest usage in the mid-20th century, offering a slightly modernized take on the traditional saint's name. While less common than Teresa, this variation appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a simplified spelling. The name carries the same rich historical connections to Saint Teresa of Ávila and other notable bearers, while having a slightly more contemporary feel. Tresa projects warmth, spirituality, and compassion—qualities associated with its more traditional counterparts.
- 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.
- Haldis
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"purposeful"Description:
A German name with little chance of American adoption.
- Zelma
Origin:
German, diminutive of AnselmaMeaning:
"God helmet"Description:
The Selma-Thelma-Velma connection dates it.
- Tatjana
Origin:
German, Finnish, Estonian, Slovene, Croatian, SerbianMeaning:
"from Latin family name"Description:
Tatjana is an interesting twist on an already uncommon name, borne by German-born supermodel Tatjana Patitz. Note that as j is pronounced as y in German, the name is spoken just like sisters Tatiana and Tatyana.
- Odiel
Description:
Odiel is a feminine name of Dutch origin, though it remains quite rare even in the Netherlands. It likely derives from Germanic elements, possibly related to 'odel' meaning 'inheritance' or 'patrimony.' The name may also be connected to the Odiel River in southwestern Spain, giving it geographical significance. Odiel has a delicate, ethereal quality with its flowing sound and unique combination of letters. The distinctive 'O' beginning gives it a sense of openness, while the soft ending creates a gentle impression. Despite its obscurity, Odiel offers potential appeal to parents seeking a truly uncommon name that still feels accessible due to its pleasant pronunciation and resemblance to more familiar names like Odette or Odile.
- Reinhilda
Description:
Reinhilda is a feminine Germanic name combining the elements 'regin' meaning 'counsel' or 'power,' and 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'conflict.' This powerful combination creates a name that historically conveyed the image of a wise warrior or battle counselor. Popular during medieval times in Germanic regions of Europe, Reinhilda has become quite rare in modern usage. The name carries an air of ancient nobility and strength, evoking images of Valkyries and shield-maidens from Norse and Germanic mythology. Despite its rarity today, Reinhilda might appeal to parents interested in names with historical depth, strong meanings, and Germanic heritage. Its traditional feminine strength offers an alternative to more commonly used Germanic names.
- Rosalinde
Description:
Rosalinde is a romantic feminine name with Germanic and French influences, derived from the elements 'hros' (horse) and 'linde' (soft, tender). This elegant variation of Rosalind was immortalized in Shakespeare's 'As You Like It' and carries a timeless, literary appeal. The name blends the familiar charm of Rose with a sophisticated, fairy-tale ending. While never among the most popular names, Rosalinde has maintained a consistent presence throughout European history, particularly in Germany and France. Its melodious quality and cultural associations with beauty and grace make it an enchanting choice with vintage appeal for contemporary parents.