Lieblingsnamen in Deutschland (Favorite names in Germany) ABC

This is a list of my favorite names from my country, Deutschland. We have many lovely names that are not commonly used on Nameberry and I would like to introduce some to the Nameberry Members.
  1. Abelard
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble, steadfast"
    • Description:

      Abelard brings to mind Peter/Pierre Abelard, the great twelfth century Breton scholastic philosopher and theologian, who was equally celebrated for his tragic love affair with Heloise--one of the world's most famous love stories.
  2. Ada
    • Origin:

      German or Turkish
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility, or island"
    • Description:

      Ada is one of the classic baby names for girls that is suddenly super stylish again. A favorite at the end of the nineteenth century, Ada is an alternative to the over-popular Ava. Ada is also part of the trend toward simple, old-fashioned names beginning with a vowel, like Ivy and Ella.
  3. Adel
    • Origin:

      Persian, Arabic, German
    • Meaning:

      "fair, honest; noble"
    • Description:

      As a Persian and Arabic name, Adel derives from adala meaning "to act justly", linking it to honesty and fairness — aspirational qualities for anyone to possess. From its Germanic origins, Adel comes from the element adal, meaning noble, making it a variation of Adele, Adelaide, Adelbert, and similar.
  4. Adela
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      A vibrant variation of Adele, with a bit of extra flair from that "-a" ending. It could join the army of popular A girls' names, especially with its tie to the success of singer Adele.
  5. Adette
    • Description:

      Adette is a feminine name that appears to be a diminutive form of Ada or Adele, with French linguistic influences. The 'ette' suffix typically indicates 'little' in French, suggesting 'little Ada' as a potential meaning. Ada itself derives from the Germanic element 'adal' meaning 'noble.' Adette remains quite rare in contemporary usage, never having ranked among popular names in the United States or most European countries. The name has a delicate, vintage quality that might appeal to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon. Its brevity combined with the soft ending creates a name that's both feminine and refined without being overly elaborate.

  6. Adolfo
    • Origin:

      Latin form of Adolph
    • Description:

      One high-fashion brand that's actually a legitimate first name, though still linked to the tainted Adolph.
  7. Adolpha
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble wolf"
    • Description:

      Nein.
  8. Agathe
    • Origin:

      French variation of Agatha, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "good woman"
    • Description:

      Agathe is a hugely popular name in contemporary France, even if it's English-speaking counterparts have not yet warmed to the usual English version, Agatha. The French pronunciation is sure to trip up non-French speakers.
  9. Aksel
    • Origin:

      Danish, version of Hebrew Absalom
    • Meaning:

      "the father is peace"
    • Description:

      Most American parents would choose to use the more commonly seen variant, Axel, but .this form is preferred in Denmark and Norway, and also ranks in the French Top 400.
  10. Albertina
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alberta, feminine form of Albert, German
    • Meaning:

      "noble, bright"
    • Description:

      Albertina is a dainty, antiquated -- dare we say demure? -- pet name for Alberta, the feminine spin on the once-popular Albert. With Albert one of the classic boys' names due for a comeback, we can imagine more little girls named Albertina than the zero who get the name today.
  11. Albrecht
    • Origin:

      German variation of Albert
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  12. Alphonsine
    • Description:

      Alphonsine is a feminine name derived from the masculine Alfonso or Alphonse, which originated from the Old Germanic elements "adal" (noble) and "funs" (ready) - meaning "ready for battle" or "noble and ready." The feminine form emerged in French-speaking regions, particularly in France, Belgium, and Quebec. Alphonsine enjoyed modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. The name carries an elegant, vintage quality with its flowing sound and connection to European nobility. Saint Alphonsine, a 19th-century Vietnamese nun who became the first Vietnamese woman to join a religious institute, has provided some religious significance to the name.

  13. Alphonso
    • Description:

      Alphonso is a masculine name with Italian and Spanish origins, derived from the Germanic name Alfonso, which combines the elements 'adal' (noble) and 'funs' (ready, eager). This regal name was borne by numerous kings of Spain and Portugal, giving it aristocratic associations. Alphonso traveled to the English-speaking world through cultural exchanges but has remained moderately uncommon. It saw modest popularity in the United States during the early to mid-20th century before gradually declining. The name carries a dignified, somewhat romantic character with its flowing sounds and noble history. Today, Alphonso offers parents a distinctive choice with historical depth and Mediterranean flair.
  14. Alvar
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "elf warrior"
    • Description:

      This name woould be hard to picture in a contemporary kindergarten, though it does have some cultural cred via Finnish architect and furniture designer Alvar Aalto. Aalto would actually make a more interesting choice.
  15. Alvin
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "noble friend, friend of the elves"
    • Description:

      Alvin has a sturdy, no-frills sound that belies its somewhat whimsical meaning. Interesting potential namesakes include British rocker Alvin Stardust, and US footballer Alvin Williams, and African-American dance legend (and activist) Alvin Ailey.
  16. Amall
    • Description:

      Amall is a masculine name with obscure origins, possibly derived from Arabic or Germanic roots. In some interpretations, it may be connected to the Arabic word for 'hope' or 'aspiration,' while others suggest it could be a variant spelling of names like Amal or Amahl. The name has remained exceptionally rare across most naming records and cultures. Its distinctive spelling with the double 'l' gives it a unique visual identity. Amall has never achieved widespread popularity but might appeal to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with a gentle sound. The name's brevity and mild pronunciation make it versatile across different languages and cultures despite its uncommon status.
  17. Angelika
    • Description:

      Angelika is a feminine name representing the Eastern European, German and Scandinavian spelling of Angelica. Derived from Latin 'angelicus' meaning 'angelic' or 'of angels,' it carries celestial and spiritual connotations. This spelling variant with a 'k' instead of 'c' is particularly common in Poland, Germany, Russia, and several Scandinavian countries. While the Angelica spelling is more prevalent in English-speaking regions, Angelika has gained modest usage among families with European connections or those seeking a slightly distinctive twist on the classic name. The name evokes qualities of purity, beauty and heavenly grace. Its international recognition makes it accessible while the spelling gives it a subtle European sophistication.
  18. Antonie
    • Description:

      Antonie is a feminine variation of the name Anthony, derived from the Roman family name Antonius, which has roots in Ancient Greece. The name means 'priceless' or 'of inestimable worth.' Popular in several European countries, particularly the Netherlands, Germany, and Czech Republic, Antonie offers an elegant and sophisticated alternative to more common feminine forms like Antonia. The name has maintained a steady but modest presence over the centuries, never reaching tremendous popularity but consistently appreciated for its classic appeal and historical richness. In recent decades, it has attracted parents seeking a traditional name with international flair and a touch of uniqueness.
  19. Archibald
    • Origin:

      Scottish from German
    • Meaning:

      "truly brave"
    • Description:

      The short form Archie is so open and friendly --and very trendy in the British Isles--that some parents are now beginning to consider the formerly fusty Archibald as well. SNL comedians Amy Poehler and Will Arnett are one couple who made this breakthrough choice.
  20. Arleigh
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Description:

      Softer version of hot Harley or Marley.