German Girl Names
- Felicie
Description:
Felicie is a charming feminine name of French origin, serving as a variation of Felicity. Derived from the Latin 'felicitas' meaning happiness or good fortune, it carries the beautiful meaning of 'lucky' or 'fortunate.' Despite its melodic sound and positive connotations, Felicie remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, though it enjoys more usage in France and French-speaking regions. The name gained some recognition through the 2016 French animated film 'Ballerina' (known as 'Leap!' in the US), which featured a protagonist named Félicie. With its delicate pronunciation (feh-LEE-see) and joyful meaning, Felicie offers a distinctive yet accessible option for parents seeking a name with European flair.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Auberon
Origin:
English from GermanMeaning:
"noble, bearlike"Description:
With the growing popularity for girls of such names as Aubrey and Audrey, Auberon feels like a fresh and viable option.
- Alfonsine
Origin:
German, feminine variation of AlphonseDescription:
Also a town in Italy, this name could find use as a feminine tribute to an Alphonso in the family.
- 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.
- Gertraud
Description:
Gertraud is a German feminine name, a variation of Gertrude, which combines the Germanic elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'thrud' meaning 'strength.' This powerful name was popular throughout medieval Europe, particularly in Germanic countries. Gertraud maintains stronger usage in German-speaking regions than the Anglicized Gertrude, which has declined in popularity since the mid-20th century. The name carries associations with strength and resilience, and notable bearers include German resistance fighter Gertraud Lichtenstein. Though considered traditional and somewhat old-fashioned today, it represents a heritage choice with significant historical depth.
- Olympie
Description:
Olympie is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from 'Olympia', the sanctuary site of the ancient Olympic Games. The name carries associations with Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek gods, lending it connotations of divinity and majesty. Olympie represents a French variation of the name, adding a touch of elegance to its classical roots. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Olympie has maintained a modest presence in French-speaking regions. The name evokes themes of achievement, athletic excellence, and timeless grace, connecting its bearers to ancient traditions of celebration and divine inspiration.
- Barrett
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"bear strength"Description:
There are a surprising number of baby boys named Barrett each year in the US -- nearly 1800 -- along with 30 baby girls. Which is more than many people might guess.
- 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.
- Bernise
Description:
Bernise is a feminine name that likely developed as a variant of Bernice, which comes from the Greek name Berenice meaning 'bringing victory.' This alternate spelling gives the traditional name a softer, more modern feel. Bernise may also connect to the masculine name Bernard, with the feminine suffix added to create a female variant. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1920s-1930s but remains relatively uncommon today, giving it a vintage charm. Bernise carries connotations of triumph and success through its Greek etymology. For parents attracted to names with historical roots and positive meanings, Bernise offers a distinctive alternative to more common vintage revivals while maintaining familiar sounds.
- Agna
Description:
Agna is a feminine name with ancient roots spanning multiple cultures. In Latin contexts, it relates to 'agnus' meaning 'lamb,' symbolizing gentleness and purity. The name also appears in Indian traditions, particularly in southern regions, where it may have different etymological origins. Historically, Agna has connections to early Christian traditions and appears occasionally in medieval European records. Though rare in contemporary usage, the name has maintained a quiet presence across generations, particularly in parts of Europe and India. Agna has a delicate, dignified quality with its soft beginning and open ending. The simplicity of the name, with just two syllables and four letters, gives it an accessible, universal quality despite its uncommon status.
- Grette
Description:
Grette is a feminine name with Scandinavian origins, likely a variation of Greta or Margareta. These names ultimately derive from Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' In Norse contexts, Grette may also connect to the legendary figure Grettir from Icelandic sagas, though this association is more common with masculine variants. The name has a distinctively Nordic sound while remaining accessible to English speakers. Though uncommon internationally, Grette maintains some usage in Scandinavian countries and communities with Nordic heritage. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a crisp, clean quality that contrasts with more elaborate feminine names. Its uniqueness makes it appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with cultural roots, particularly those celebrating Scandinavian heritage or drawn to the straightforward elegance of Nordic naming traditions.
- Lilie
Description:
Lilie is a feminine name derived from the flower lily, which has long symbolized purity, innocence, and beauty. This elegant spelling variation adds a continental European flair to the more common Lily, resembling the German and French word for the flower. Lilie has a delicate, refined quality while maintaining the natural charm of floral names. Though less frequently used than Lily, Lilie has attracted parents seeking a subtle twist on the popular flower name. The name evokes images of the graceful white bloom that has been featured in art and literature for centuries as a symbol of purity. With its soft sounds and gentle associations, Lilie presents as both feminine and sophisticated, appealing to those who appreciate classic botanical names with a subtle unique spelling.
- Frerika
Description:
Frerika is an unusual feminine name that may have originated as a variant of Frederica or Frederika, the feminine forms of Frederick. These names derive from Germanic elements meaning 'peaceful ruler' (from 'frid' meaning peace and 'ric' meaning ruler or power). The unique spelling of Frerika gives it a distinctive quality while maintaining connections to its more traditional counterparts. This name remains quite rare internationally, making it an option for parents seeking something truly uncommon. Its European heritage combined with its melodic sound creates an impression of elegance and uniqueness. The name carries a sense of strength while retaining feminine qualities.
- Rolanda
Origin:
German feminization of ROLANDMeaning:
"famous in the land"Description:
This is a rarely heard feminization of the rarely heard Roland.
- Bernessa
Origin:
German variation of Bernice, GreekMeaning:
"she who brings victory"Description:
Bernessa is a rare form of the old-fashioned biblical name Bernice, once stylish but now fallen from favor -- though according to the Hundred Year Rule, it could be time for a comeback.
- 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.
- Suse
Description:
Suse is a feminine name with Germanic origins, primarily serving as a diminutive form of Susanne or Susanna, which derive from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' This short, sweet variation has been used across German-speaking regions of Europe for centuries. While not as common as other Susan derivatives like Susie or Sue in English-speaking countries, Suse maintains popularity in Germany and parts of Switzerland. The name carries a gentle, classic quality while still feeling somewhat distinctive. Pronunciation typically follows German phonetics as 'ZOO-zuh,' though it may be adapted to 'SOOS' in English-speaking regions.
