German Names that Start With T

  1. Tilly
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Matilda
    • Meaning:

      "battle-mighty"
    • Description:

      A favorite in England and Wales where nicknames as given names are very much the norm, Tilly has the potential to catch on in the US, given its similarity to the popular Lily and Ellie and the rising stars Millie, Billie, Kallie, and Nellie.
  2. Timo
    • Origin:

      Norwegian, Finnish, German, and Dutch variation of Timothy
    • Meaning:

      "honoring God"
    • Description:

      Popular in its own right in Germany and definitely makes a more intriguing and grownup short form of the classic Timothy than Timmy or even Tim.
  3. Trudy
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "spear of strength"
    • Description:

      Innocent, sincere, and bright-eyed, and as outdated as its mother name, Gertrude.
  4. Therese
    • Origin:

      German and Scandinavian variation of Theresa
    • Meaning:

      "to reap, gather, harvest"
    • Description:

      A form of Theresa with a touch of European flair along with its saintly connotations, Therese is particularly familiar in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, and the UK. While it has declined in use in recent years, it remains a solid choice with nicknames ranging from Reese to Tessie, Thea to Tessan, Terri to Tracey.
  5. Till
    • Origin:

      German diminutive of Dietrich or Theodoric
    • Description:

      The modern name Till is in the German Top 100. Used in contemporary terms on its own, it's traditionally a short form of names beginning with Diet such as Deitrich, which is itself a form of Theodoric. Because of its English word equivalent, it's a bit slight to ever make it as a standalone name in the English-speaking world.
  6. Tomas
    • Origin:

      German; Norwegian; Swedish; Lithuanian, version of Thomas, Aramaic,"twin"
    • Meaning:

      "twin"
    • Description:

      The most common form of Thomas in various European languages, although some Anglophone parents also use this as a phonetic spelling of Thomas.
  7. Theodor
    • Description:

      Theodor is a classic masculine name of Greek origin meaning "gift of God," derived from the elements "theos" (God) and "doron" (gift). This spelling variant is particularly popular in Germanic and Scandinavian countries, including Germany, Austria, Norway, and Sweden. While the Theodore spelling is more common in English-speaking regions, Theodor has gained appreciation for its sophisticated European flair. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including composer Theodor Adorno, writer Theodor Herzl, and children's author Theodor Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss). Theodor offers parents a timeless yet distinguished name option with appealing nickname possibilities including Theo, Ted, and Teddy.
  8. Tancred
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "thoughtful counsel"
    • Description:

      More familiar to most English speakers in its Italian form, Tancredo, this Old School name is one to consider if you want something both authentic and highly unusual.
  9. Theodoric
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "people's ruler"
    • Description:

      Theodoric feels prehistoric, though with short form Theo one of the hottest names around, this old German names for boys may soon feel new again.
  10. Tatjana
    • Origin:

      German, Finnish, Estonian, Slovene, Croatian, Serbian
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  11. Theobald
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "courageous people"
    • Description:

      This is one of the least known or used of the Theo names, quite possibly because of its last syllable. In Samuel Butler's 1903 novel The Way of All Flesh, there is a clergyman character named Theobald Pontifex.
  12. 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.

  13. Tabea
    • Description:

      Tabea is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Aramaic name 'Tabitha,' meaning 'gazelle' or 'doe.' In the New Testament, Tabitha (called Dorcas in Greek) was a woman known for her charitable works who was raised from the dead by the apostle Peter. The Tabea spelling is particularly common in German-speaking countries and parts of Eastern Europe. The name carries connotations of grace, gentleness, and compassion through both its meaning and biblical associations. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, Tabea has maintained consistent popularity in Germany and Switzerland. The name appeals to parents seeking a name with biblical roots that isn't overly common, yet carries positive attributes of kindness and elegance.
  14. Terenz
    • Description:

      Terenz is a masculine name that serves as a Germanic or Eastern European variant of Terence (Latin Terentius). The original name has ancient Roman roots, derived from an Etruscan word possibly meaning "tender" or "smooth." This variation with a 'z' ending is more common in German-speaking regions and parts of Eastern Europe. While the traditional Terence saw popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, Terenz remains relatively uncommon. The name carries intellectual associations, partly due to the connection with the ancient Roman playwright Terentius (Terence). The distinctive 'z' ending gives the name a sophisticated European flair while maintaining its classical heritage.

  15. 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.

  16. Tanja
    • Description:

      Tanja is a feminine name with Slavic and Germanic roots. It's a variant of Tanya, which itself is a diminutive of the Russian Tatiana, originally derived from the Roman family name Tatius. The name gained popularity across Eastern and Northern Europe, particularly in countries like Russia, Germany, Finland, and the Netherlands. Tanja offers a slightly different spelling of the more common Tanya, giving it a distinctive European flair. The name saw increased international usage in the mid-20th century and continues to be appreciated for its melodic sound and cultural versatility. While less common in English-speaking countries, Tanja remains a beloved choice in many European nations for its elegant simplicity and rich cultural heritage.

  17. Tewdor
    • Description:

      Tewdor is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Tudor, which has deep Welsh and historical roots. The name originally derived from the Welsh name 'Tudur,' meaning 'gift of God' or 'divine gift.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a distinctive appearance while maintaining its traditional pronunciation. Historically significant through the Tudor dynasty that ruled England from 1485 to 1603, the name carries connotations of nobility and heritage. Despite its rich history, Tewdor remains exceptionally rare as a first name choice, offering uniqueness while still connecting to recognizable traditions. The name might particularly appeal to families with Welsh connections or those interested in British history who desire something uncommon yet historically anchored.
  18. Tahnia
    • Description:

      Tahnia is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variation of Tania (derived from the Russian Tatiana, meaning 'fairy queen' or from a Latin family name), or it could have roots in various cultural traditions including Aboriginal Australian languages. The spelling with an 'h' gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining the familiar pronunciation of Tania. Tahnia remains relatively uncommon across most English-speaking countries, offering parents a recognizable yet unique option. The name has a gentle, feminine sound with an exotic flair that appeals to those seeking something slightly unconventional. Despite its rarity, Tahnia feels accessible and contemporary, with the potential for nicknames like Tah or Nia.
  19. Trescha
    • Description:

      Trescha is a feminine name with possible Slavic or Italian influences. It may be a variant of Tressa or Teresa, ultimately derived from Greek 'therizein' meaning 'to harvest' or 'to reap.' The unique spelling with 'sch' gives the name a distinctive quality while maintaining a melodic pronunciation. Trescha remains relatively uncommon, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that stands out while still having traditional roots. The name has a gentle rhythm and exotic flair that balances uniqueness with accessibility. Potential nicknames include Tress or Trey, offering versatility for different stages of life.
  20. Timotheus
    • Description:

      Timotheus is the original Greek form of Timothy, derived from the elements 'timao' meaning 'to honor' and 'theos' meaning 'God,' thus translating to 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' This masculine name appears in the New Testament as Paul's disciple and early Christian leader. While Timothy has remained popular throughout Western Christian history, the full Greek form Timotheus is considerably rarer, carrying a classical, scholarly air. The name has been used occasionally throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavian countries. Timotheus offers parents a way to connect with biblical and classical traditions while providing the friendly nickname options of Tim or Theo. Though uncommon in contemporary usage, it appeals to those seeking a name with deep historical roots and spiritual significance.