German Names that Start With U
- Ulrich
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"rich and noble heritage"Description:
Ulrich has ancient roots — it was derived from the Old High German name Uodalrich (also spelled Odalric). Ulrich was a common given name in medieval Germany, when it was associated with St. Ulrich of Augsburg. St. Ulrich is the patron saint of pregnant women and easy births.
- Uli
Description:
Uli is a concise masculine name with multicultural origins. In German, it serves as a diminutive of Ulrich, meaning 'heritage ruler' or 'wolf ruler.' In Scandinavian countries, it can be short for names like Ulrik or Ulv. The name also appears in Nigerian Igbo culture with distinct meanings. Despite its brevity, Uli carries cultural richness across different traditions. Its short, two-syllable structure makes it easy to pronounce across languages while maintaining a distinctive sound. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Uli's international presence and straightforward pronunciation give it global versatility. The name combines simplicity with cultural depth, appealing to parents seeking a short but meaningful name with international connections.
- Ulla
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"will, determination"Description:
Ulla, the beautiful Swedish secretary in The Producers (played by Uma Thurman in the movie) who purrs, "Ven you got it, flaunt it," has changed the image of this name forever. Ulla may stand on its own or be an abbreviation of Ursula or Ulrika; Ula may be seen as another spelling.
- Uta
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"prosperity, riches"Description:
Medieval name that still hasn't crossed the ocean, known here primarily via actress/teacher Uta Hagen.
- Ullrich
Description:
Ullrich is a masculine name of German origin, derived from the Old High German elements 'uodal' meaning 'heritage' or 'homeland' and 'rihhi' meaning 'ruler' or 'powerful.' It's essentially a variant spelling of Ulrich, which was popularized by several medieval saints and nobility throughout German-speaking regions. While not common in English-speaking countries, Ullrich maintains steady usage in Germany and other German-speaking areas. The name carries connotations of heritage, strength, and leadership. Notable bearers include German cyclists Jan Ullrich and various individuals in academic and business fields. The spelling with double 'l' distinguishes it slightly from the more common Ulrich form.
- Utz
Description:
Utz is an uncommon masculine name with Germanic origins. Primarily found in German-speaking regions, it developed as a shortened form of names containing the element 'uodal' or 'ulrich', meaning 'heritage' or 'prosperity'. The name carries a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and distinctive 'tz' ending. Historically, Utz functioned more frequently as a surname than a given name. In popular culture, it gained some recognition through Peter Carey's novel 'The History of the Kelly Gang' and as a well-known brand of potato chips in the United States. Despite its brevity and distinctive character, Utz remains rare as a first name in most countries, appealing to parents seeking truly unique Germanic options.
- Ullric
Description:
Ullric is a masculine name with strong Germanic roots, derived from elements meaning "wolf power" or "wolf ruler." A variant of Ulrich or Ulric, this name carries ancient associations with strength and leadership. Medieval German nobles bore variations of this powerful name, including Saint Ulrich of Augsburg. Despite its distinguished history, Ullric remains exceptionally rare in modern usage, particularly with this specific spelling. The name evokes images of medieval Europe and Norse mythology, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and distinctive character. Its uncommon status makes it a bold choice that stands out while still connecting to traditional naming patterns.
- Urse
Description:
Urse is an extremely unusual feminine name that may have originated as a variant of Ursula, which comes from Latin meaning 'little female bear.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Germanic element 'urs' meaning 'bear' found in various European names. This concise, single-syllable name stands in contrast to most feminine names with its brevity and strong sound. Urse has remained exceedingly rare throughout recorded naming history in English-speaking countries. The name has a certain primal strength associated with its bear-related etymology, combined with an unexpected simplicity. Its rarity and distinctive character might appeal to parents seeking something truly uncommon with ancient European connections.
- Ulz
Description:
Ulz is an extremely rare masculine name of uncertain origin. It may be a shortened form of names beginning with 'Ul-' such as Ulrich (meaning 'wolf ruler' in Germanic languages) or possibly a variant of Ulf (meaning 'wolf'). Alternatively, it could be derived from a surname or represent a unique cultural nickname. With its short, powerful sound and distinctive 'z' ending, Ulz has a strong, contemporary feel despite potentially ancient roots. The name's brevity gives it a modern edge while its unusual nature makes it highly distinctive. Due to its rarity, Ulz has little documented usage history but could appeal to parents seeking an ultra-concise, memorable name with a bold sound.
- Urbanus
Description:
Urbanus is a masculine name with Latin origins meaning "of the city" or "refined and polished," reflecting the Roman concept that city dwellers were more sophisticated than rural inhabitants. It represents the original Latin form of the more common Urban. The name carries historical significance through several popes and saints who bore it, including Pope Urban I in the 3rd century. Urbanus has a distinctly classical feel, evoking images of ancient Rome and learned scholars. While uncommon in contemporary usage, it offers a dignified alternative for parents seeking a name with historical depth and elegant sophistication. The name suggests culture, civilization, and refinement.