Amish Names
- 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.
- Lavern
Description:
Lavern is a gender-neutral name that has been used predominantly for males in the United States, though it can also be found as a feminine name. It likely derives from French elements, possibly from surnames or place names, with "verne" referring to alder trees or swampy areas. The name reached its peak popularity in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, reflecting naming trends of that era. While less common today, Lavern maintains a certain vintage charm and straightforward appeal. The masculine use of Lavern is sometimes confused with the more feminine LaVerne spelling variation. Notable bearers include American football player Lavern Dilweg and country music artist Lavern Baker. The name's soft sounds combined with its strong ending give it a distinctive character that bridges traditional and modern naming styles.
- Klaas
Description:
Klaas is a traditional Dutch and Frisian masculine name, functioning as a shortened form of Nicholas or Nikolaas. Originating from the Greek name Nikolaos, it combines the elements "nike" (victory) and "laos" (people), meaning "victory of the people." Widely used in the Netherlands and parts of northern Germany, Klaas has been a staple name for centuries, particularly in rural and traditional communities. In Dutch folklore, Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) is a beloved figure associated with gift-giving, indirectly boosting the name's cultural significance. Though uncommon outside Dutch-speaking regions, the name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a distinctive character that travels well. It typically appears as a full name rather than a nickname.
- Atlee
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"clearing in the wood or meadow"Description:
As a first name, Atlee is a common choice in the Amish community.
- Ervin
Origin:
Variation of Erwin, GermanMeaning:
"respected friend"Description:
Ervin is an old-school great-grandpa name, like Irving and Ernest, that may just be ready for revival. It's also a well-known name in Hungary and elsewhere in central and eastern Europe. As a surname, it's associated with jazz sax player Booker Ervin.
- Erma
Origin:
English variation of Irma, English, German, SloveneMeaning:
"whole, great, universal; army man"Description:
A variation of the German Irma, Erma emerged in the 19th century in English-speaking countries where its similarity to timeless Emma might have helped it gain popularity. In fact, if you follow its Germanic roots, it relates back to irmin meaning "whole, great", the same as Emma does.
- Ammon
Origin:
Variation of Amman, German occupational name, Greek, Ancient EgyptianMeaning:
"administrator; the hidden one"Description:
Ammon is connected to two religions in the US and is used exclusively between the two of them. Prior to the 1960s, Ammon was considered a solely Amish name. In the Amish community, Ammon is bestowed in honor of Jacob Amman, whom the Amish sect is named after.
- Barbie
Origin:
English diminutive of Barbara, GreekMeaning:
"foreign woman"Description:
Despite the voluptuous doll's various career choices, from astronaut to doctor, her name still remains a euphemism for "bimbo".
- Lovisa
Description:
Lovisa is a Scandinavian feminine name, particularly popular in Sweden, derived from Louise, which ultimately comes from the Germanic name Ludwig, meaning 'famous warrior' or 'renowned fighter.' Despite its martial origins, Lovisa has a gentle, melodic quality that feels both elegant and approachable. The name has deep historical roots in Nordic countries dating back centuries, where it has been borne by several notable figures including Swedish royalty. While not widely used outside Scandinavia, Lovisa offers an appealing option for parents seeking a name with European flair and subtle connection to the more common Louise or Louisa.
- Neta
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"plant"Description:
Botanical Hebrew choice that leads to the sweet vintage nickname Nettie.
- Arie
Origin:
Variation of Ariel and AriMeaning:
"lion of God"Description:
This spelling variation of trending unisex Ari — both diminutives of Hebrew Ariel — means "lion of God".
- Mose
Origin:
German variation of Moses, EgyptianMeaning:
"delivered from the water"Description:
Mose is the German variation of Moses, a widely familiar name thanks to the character in the Old Testament. Mose is also used a nickname for Moses.
- Emanual
Description:
Emanual is a variant spelling of Emmanuel, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'God is with us.' This masculine name carries biblical significance, as it appears in the Old Testament as a prophecy of the Messiah and is later associated with Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. While less common than the traditional spelling Emmanuel, Emanual maintains the same powerful religious connotation and melodic quality. The name has maintained modest popularity throughout Western countries, particularly in Christian communities. With its four syllables and rhythmic sound, Emanual conveys strength, spirituality, and divine protection, making it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with religious significance.
- Iddo
Origin:
Hebrew and ArabicMeaning:
"to evaporate and to be mighty"Description:
This Old Testament name, also translated as Ido, is well-used in the modern Middle East but nearly unknown in the US. The Biblical Iddo was a minor prophet who lived in the time of Solomon.
- Netha
Origin:
Diminutive of Aganetha, GermanMeaning:
"pure, virginal"Description:
Short form of Aganetha used in the Amish community.
- Isaak
Origin:
Variation of IsaacDescription:
Cool spelling of the venerable Isaac used in several different cultures.
- Heinz
Origin:
German diminutive of HeinrichDescription:
Heinz has become a cartoonish German name, prone to ketchup teasing.
- Katura
Description:
Katura is a feminine name with biblical origins, variant of Keturah, who was Abraham's second wife in the Old Testament. The name derives from Hebrew and means "incense" or "fragrance." This alternative spelling maintains the original pronunciation while offering a more phonetic approach. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Katura has maintained a quiet presence, occasionally chosen by parents seeking a name with biblical significance but less common than traditional choices like Sarah or Rebecca. The name carries a mystical, exotic quality with its connection to aromatic incense and ancient heritage. Katura offers a distinctive choice with meaningful historical and spiritual roots while providing a melodic, feminine sound.
- Delila
Origin:
Hebrew and German variation of Delilah, Hebrew or ArabicMeaning:
"delicate"Description:
This spelling of Delilah is disproportionately common among the Amish.
- Benuel
Origin:
American variation of Benjamin, HebrewMeaning:
"son of the right hand"Description:
Benuel is an Amish name that has only ever appeared on the Pennsylvania charts.
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