Amrei

Predominantly used in Austria, Southern Germany, and Switzerland, Amrei can be viewed as both a contracted form of the classic Annemarie, and as a smoosh name in its own right, blending Anna and Maria. Used since at least the 1850s when it appeared in the short story Barfüßele by German writer Berthold Auerbach, Amrei has a distinctive ending and a lively, slightly off-beat feel.

Notable bearers include actress Amrei Haardt and philosopher Amrei Bahr.

Pronounced AHM-ray.