Austrian Royal Baby Names
- Franz
Origin:
German variation of Francis, LatinMeaning:
"Frenchman or free man"Description:
Franz is the German equivalent to Francis, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a Franz outside of countries with Germanic origins. In America the name is often associated with celebrated author Franz Kafka, who was born in Prague.
- Johann
Origin:
German variation of Johan or John, HebrewMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
The traditional German spelling of this name, used by Goethe, Bach and many other luminaries. Familiar in the US, but retains an Olde World feel, for better and worse.
- Eleonore
Description:
Eleonore is a feminine name with Germanic origins, a variant of Eleanor, which derives from the Provençal name Aliénor, meaning 'other' or 'foreign.' This regal name has been carried by numerous European nobility throughout history, including queens and duchesses. The spelling 'Eleonore' is particularly common in French, German, and Scandinavian countries, giving it a continental sophistication. With its elegant four syllables and flowing sound, Eleonore offers a more elaborate alternative to the more common Eleanor or Ellie. The name exudes classic dignity and timeless grace while still allowing for cute nicknames like Nora, Lena, or Elle. Though not among the most popular names in English-speaking countries, Eleonore maintains steady appeal for parents seeking a name with historical depth and European charm.
- Albrecht
Origin:
German variation of AlbertMeaning:
"noble; bright"Description:
These days Albrecht is mostly seen as a surname, although it was historically a well-used first name in Germany. The surname was derived from the given name.
- Gabriele
Description:
Gabriele is a feminine name in English-speaking countries, though it functions as a masculine name in Italian. It derives from the Hebrew name Gabriel, meaning 'God is my strength' or 'strong one of God.' In biblical tradition, Gabriel was one of the archangels who served as a messenger of God. The feminine form Gabriele (pronounced gah-bree-EL-eh in Italian, but often as GAB-ree-el in English) offers a softer alternative to the more common Gabriella or Gabrielle. The name carries a sense of spiritual strength while maintaining an elegant, international quality. Gabriele has moderate popularity in Italy and other European countries but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions, giving it a distinctive yet recognizable quality for girls.
- Rudolf
Origin:
Spelling variation of Rudolph, GermanMeaning:
"famous wolf"Description:
You've got the red-nosed reindeer to transcend, but there are other distinguished personages named Rudolph, Rudolf, and Rudy.
- Ernst
Origin:
German variation of ErnestDescription:
Concise and clipped European version of the earnest Ernest.
- Gisela
Origin:
German; Dutch; Spanish; PortugueseMeaning:
"pledge, hostage"Description:
A variation of Giselle.
- Wenzel
Description:
Wenzel is a masculine name with strong Central European roots, particularly prevalent in German, Czech, and Polish cultures. Derived from the Slavic name Václav (Wenceslaus in Latin), it means "greater glory" or "more glorious." The name carries significant historical weight as Saint Wenceslaus was a 10th-century Duke of Bohemia known for his righteousness and compassion. In German-speaking regions, Wenzel has been used for centuries, often passed down through generations. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, the name maintains popularity in parts of Europe, particularly in regions with Czech heritage. Wenzel combines dignified historical connections with a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common masculine names.
- 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.
- Karoline
Origin:
German and Scandinavian variation of Caroline, FrenchMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Karoline is the form of the classic Caroline commonly used in Germany and throughout Scandinavia, where it is popular. It's an acceptable if not traditional spelling variation, given to nearly 100 baby girls in the US last year, versus almost 3000 named Caroline.
- Christoph
Description:
Christoph is the German and Dutch form of Christopher, derived from the Greek 'Christophoros' meaning 'bearing Christ.' This masculine name carries significant historical and religious weight across European cultures. While Christopher remains widely used in English-speaking countries, Christoph offers a more continental European flair without straying far from the familiar original. The name has maintained steady popularity in German-speaking countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Christoph projects an image of reliability and strength while its international recognition makes it practical across different cultures. The name balances traditional roots with a slightly distinctive quality that sets it apart from the more common Christopher.
- Josepha
Origin:
Feminine variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Josepha is less heard in this country than in other parts of the world, seen as a slightly awkward feminization a la Ricarda and Benjamina. In the U.S., Josephine or Joanna is the more usual feminine form of Joseph, though you might consider Josepha if you want to break rank.
- Katharina
Origin:
German variation of Katherine, GreekMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Katharina is an attractive form of Katherine and a great way to update a classic. But English speakers may want to choose the Katerina or Katarina spelling to avoid pronunciation confusion.
- Luise
Origin:
German variation of LouiseDescription:
See LOUISE.
- Leopoldine
Origin:
French feminine version of LeopoldMeaning:
"brave people"Description:
A sophisticated girls' name for those attracted to Leona, Leonie and Leonore.
- Margarethe
Description:
Margarethe is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant of Margaret that's particularly common in German-speaking regions. Derived from the Greek word "margarites" meaning "pearl," the name carries connotations of preciousness and beauty. Throughout European history, Margarethe has maintained popularity due to various notable royal and saintly bearers, including Saint Margaret of Antioch. The name offers several familiar nicknames including Greta, Gretel, and Margot. While less common in English-speaking countries, Margarethe maintains steady usage in Germany, Austria, and parts of Scandinavia. The name's enduring appeal lies in its classic elegance, rich historical connections, and dignified sound.
- 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.
- Nepomuk
- Cacilia