German Names that Start With G
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Oct 01 2024
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- Greta
Origin:
German, diminutive of MargaretheMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Greta is an Old World name long tied to the iconic Garbo, but now synonymous with environmental activism.
- Gilbert
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"shining pledge"Description:
Considered ultra debonair in the silent-movie era, Gilbert then went through a nerdy phase, a la Gilbert Gottfried. Now though, like Albert and Alfred and Walter and Frank, it could be in for a style revival.
- Giselle
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"pledge, hostage"Description:
Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen undoubtedly gave this name a boost. The French pronunciation (jiz-ELLE) gives it a more graceful, balletic, gazellelike feel.
- Geraldine
Origin:
German and French, feminine variation of GeraldMeaning:
"ruler with the spear"Description:
Though twin brother Gerald is still in baby name limbo, Geraldine is in line to follow the path of Josephine to imminent revival—even though Gerry is not as spunky a nickname as Josie.
- Gertrude
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"strength of a spear"Description:
Could cute nickname Gertie, remembered as cute five-year-old Drew Barrymore in E.T., revive the long shunned Gertrude?
- Gina
Origin:
Diminutive of Regina, Eugenia, Georgina, and similar, English, German, SpanishMeaning:
"queen; well born; farmer"Description:
A short form for a whole variety of names, this short form has been used across Europe as a stand-alone since the 1920s. It spiked in popularity in the 1950s, owing to the fame of Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida but faded out of use in the 2000s.
- Gretchen
Origin:
German, diminutive of MargaretheMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Like Greta, Gretchen is a German Margaret diminutive that has become an American quasi-classic, though not much used today, having dropped off the list in 2009. She was at her high point in the 1970s, making it into the top 200.
- Griselda
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"grey battle"Description:
Griselda is a famous folklore figure, noted for her patience and obedience. Her story has been told by Petrarch, Chaucer, Boccaccio and set to music by Scarlatti, Vivaldi and Massenet.
- Gunther
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"battle warrior"Description:
When it's spelled with two dots over the 'u' in German, Gunther is pronounced GUWN-ter, but it has a much softer sound when the 'h' is voiced by English-speakers, as it was, for example, for the name of a character in Friends.
- Godfrey
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"God's peace"Description:
Godfrey was very popular in the Middle Ages, but today you're more likely to hear it as a surname than a first name. It has a solid, old-man charm, but a couple of possible deal-breakers: the first syllable being God, and no obvious nickname. Goff, maybe? For a different feel, we also like the Italian artist's version Giotto.
- Gisella
Origin:
Italian form of Giselle, French, GermanMeaning:
"pledge, hostage"Description:
A bright, musical name, Gisella is the Italian form of the French Giselle. With its zippy "Zella" sound and potential nickname Gigi too, it could make an underused and appealing choice.
- Gatsby
Origin:
German surname and literary nameMeaning:
"from Gaddesby"Description:
Gatsby is one of the most famous literary surnames, borne by the titular character of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. The book's Jay Gatsby gussied up his surname from Gatz, whose meaning is given variously as left-handed, cat, God, and person from Gat. As a first name, it's got a lot of energy and that great literary pedigree.
- Gisela
Origin:
German; Dutch; Spanish; PortugueseMeaning:
"pledge, hostage"Description:
A variation of Giselle.
- Gretta
Description:
Gretta is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Greta, which itself originated as a short form of Margaret or Margareta. With Germanic and Greek roots, the name ultimately derives from 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' Gretta has a classic, slightly vintage feel with its double consonants giving it a more substantial presence than Greta. While never reaching tremendous popularity, the name enjoyed modest usage throughout the 20th century. It carries associations with iconic figures like Greta Garbo, lending it a touch of timeless glamour. Gretta balances familiarity with distinctiveness, offering a recognizable yet not overly common option that works well across various ages.
- Gerhart
Description:
Gerhart is a strong Germanic masculine name with ancient roots. Derived from the Germanic elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'hard' meaning 'brave, hardy, or strong,' Gerhart literally translates to 'strong with the spear' or 'brave spear-warrior.' This powerful name has been used throughout German-speaking regions of Europe since medieval times and represents qualities of courage and military prowess that were highly valued in Germanic societies. While more common in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Gerhart remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name has several spelling variations including Gerhard, Gearhart, and Gerhardt. Its traditional nature and distinctive sound appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and clear masculine associations.
- Gerrit
Origin:
Low German variation of GerhardDescription:
An undiscovered cousin of Garrett and Gerard. Gerrit has some merit, especially for its arty credentials as the name of several Old Master painters.
- Gervas
Description:
Gervas is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from the name Gervasius, which may have come from a Germanic element meaning 'spear.' The name has historical significance in Christianity as Saint Gervasius was an early martyr alongside his twin brother Protasius. Gervas represents a shortened or modernized version of the traditional name. More common in parts of Europe, particularly with Eastern European and Latin influences, the name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries. Gervas has a sophisticated, slightly austere quality with its crisp consonants and classical roots. The name's rarity gives it distinction while its historical connections provide it with depth and character.
- Giselbert
Description:
Giselbert is a masculine name of ancient Germanic origin, combining the elements 'gisel' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage' (in the political sense of the medieval period) and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous.' This historical name was borne by several European nobles during the Middle Ages, including dukes of Lorraine. Though extremely rare today, Giselbert represents a connection to deep European heritage. The name has evolved into the more common Gilbert in English-speaking countries. Giselbert maintains an air of medieval nobility and Old World sophistication. Its rarity makes it distinctive while its historical roots give it substance and gravitas not found in newly created names.
- Gesine
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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.
- 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.