Names that sound the same in English and German

  1. Luis
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Louis
    • Meaning:

      "renowned warrior"
    • Description:

      Luis has long been one of the most popular Hispanic names in America — it was in the Top 100 every year from 1980 to 2014, though it's dropped a bit in popularity. It's familiar, yet would add a worldly touch to a basic surname.
  2. Tom
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Thomas
    • Meaning:

      "twin"
    • Description:

      Just like Sam and Ben, Tom could be revived as a simple, well liked name on its own. Tom, just Tom, is one of the Top 100 Boy Names in France
  3. Tilda
    • Origin:

      Estonian, diminutive of Matilda
    • Description:

      Actress Tilda Swinton injected this dated nickname name with some modern charm.
  4. Lynn
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Linda or Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "lake"
    • Description:

      Lynn arrived in the 1940s, spinning off from the wildly popular Linda, to become a top midcentury middle name. Now, Lynn's in limbo.
  5. Carla
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Carl
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      While Charlotte and Caroline are considered stylish and classic members of the Charles family, this Germanic form peaked in the US at Number 76 in 1965. It fell out of favor in the 2010s, but recent years have seen it re-enter the Top 1000.
  6. Tim
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Timothy, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "honoring God"
    • Description:

      Tim is a boyish short form occasionally given on its own. There were 37 baby boys named Tim in the US last year, versus over 1700 named Timothy.
  7. Frieda
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "peace"
    • Description:

      This traditional Germanic name hasn't been on the U.S. list since 1958, but perhaps due to the mythic power of painter Frida Kahlo, parents are beginning to show some interest in it.
  8. Inga
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "guarded by Ing"
    • Description:

      Ing was a powerful Norse god whose name inspired several modern variations -- though Inga has become a caricatured Scandinavian choice.
  9. Ebba
    • Origin:

      English or German
    • Meaning:

      "fortress of riches, or strength of a boar"
    • Description:

      Ebba, the feminine version of Eberhard and also a form of an old English name, is in the Swedish Top 10 but virtually unknown in the US. However, with the rise of Emma, Ella, Ada, and similar simple-yet-traditional names, Ebba may enjoy more widespread popularity.
  10. Vince
    • Origin:

      Short form of Vincent, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "conquering"
    • Description:

      Vince is not a short form that often stands alone on the birth certificate, the way Jack or even Joe does, but it has certain credibility as the name always used for football great Vince Lombardi. And as a diminutive for Vincent, it's a far sight better than Vinnie or Vinny or even Vin.
  11. Liz
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Elizabeth
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      Some might think a girl named Liz on her birth certificate would feel deprived of her full identity, but in a time when mini names like Liv, Kit, Tru, Kai, Lou, and Bea are in style, Liz feels substantial enough that its bearer won't feel bereft.
  12. Stina
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Christina
    • Description:

      Not-so-attractive short form of a lovely name.
  13. Henning
    • Description:

      Henning is a masculine name with Scandinavian and Germanic origins, particularly popular in Denmark, Norway, and northern Germany. It likely developed as a diminutive of Heinrich (Henry), derived from Germanic elements meaning 'home ruler.' With a history dating back to medieval times, Henning has maintained steady usage in Nordic countries while remaining uncommon in English-speaking regions. The name has a strong, crisp sound with its double 'n' and straightforward pronunciation. Notable bearers include various Scandinavian athletes, authors, and historical figures. Henning conveys a sense of reliability and Nordic heritage, appealing to parents looking for a name with cultural roots and a distinctive yet accessible quality.
  14. Carsten
    • Origin:

      Low German and Nordic variation of Christian
    • Description:

      This Nordic-sounding name is ripe for wider usage, especially as a fresh alternative to Christian or similar-sounding Carl.
  15. Smilla
    • Description:

      Smilla is a feminine name with Scandinavian origins, particularly associated with Danish naming traditions. The name gained international recognition through Peter Høeg's novel 'Smilla's Sense of Snow' (1992). While its precise etymology remains somewhat debated, it may derive from 'smile' or have connections to ancient Nordic roots. Smilla carries a distinctively Nordic sound while being relatively accessible to English speakers. Though rare globally, the name has seen modest usage in Denmark and occasionally appears in other Scandinavian countries. Smilla offers parents a name that combines softness with strength, featuring an appealing blend of the familiar 'l' sounds with an exotic quality.

  16. Piet
    • Origin:

      Dutch, diminutive of Pieter or Peter, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "rock"
    • Description:

      Wonderful nickname name most often associated in this country with Dutch modernist painter Mondrian. Pronounced PEET.
  17. Lennard
    • Description:

      Lennard is a masculine name with Germanic origins, serving as a variant of Leonard. Derived from the elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'hardy,' Lennard literally translates to 'lion-strong' or 'brave as a lion.' This spelling variation is particularly common in Scandinavian countries and parts of Northern Europe. Lennard gained moderate popularity during the Middle Ages due to the veneration of St. Leonard of Noblac, a 6th-century French noble. While not among the most common names today, Lennard has maintained steady usage throughout the centuries, offering a distinctive alternative to the more widespread Leonard, with the same powerful connotations of courage and strength.

  18. Philipp
    • Description:

      Philipp is a masculine name representing the German, Scandinavian, and Eastern European spelling of Philip, which derives from the Greek name Philippos, meaning 'lover of horses.' This two-p spelling remains the standard in many European countries, while English-speaking regions typically use Philip or Phillip. The name has ancient origins, initially gaining prominence through Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. Throughout history, it has been borne by numerous kings, saints, and notable figures. Philipp combines classic heritage with international appeal, offering a slightly distinctive variation on a timeless name. The name conveys strength, nobility, and historical gravitas while remaining thoroughly contemporary in usage.
  19. Conny
    • Description:

      Conny is a feminine name that functions as a diminutive of Constance, Concetta, or Cornelia, depending on cultural context. With Germanic and Latin roots, it ultimately derives from words meaning 'constant' or 'steadfast.' Popular in Scandinavian countries and parts of Europe, Conny offers a friendly, approachable alternative to more formal versions. In English-speaking countries, it peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades. The name carries connotations of reliability and persistence, with a cheerful, vintage charm. Some may also use it as a nickname for Conrad when given to boys.
  20. Very similar names