Lieblingsnamen in Deutschland (Favorite names in Germany) ABC
- Ada
Origin:
German or TurkishMeaning:
"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.
- Bruno
Origin:
GermanicMeaning:
"brown"Description:
Tough-yet-cuddly Bruno is an international name even in its origins: it derives from the Germanic word for "brown" plus a Latin ending, and was borrowed as a color word in many European languages.
- Barrett
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"bear strength"Description:
Barrett is one of many surname names that are up and coming for boys in recent years. Barrett joints Bennett, Beckett, and others in the trend of "-tt" ending boy names taking over the charts.
- Archibald
Origin:
Scottish from GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Alvin
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"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.
- Adela
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Aksel
Origin:
Danish, version of Hebrew AbsalomMeaning:
"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.
- Adel
Origin:
Persian, Arabic, GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Clovis
Origin:
Teutonic, French, early form of Ludwig or LouisDescription:
An aromatic, unconventional name.
- Bruna
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"brown"Description:
Possibility for a dark-haired babe.
- Arvin
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"friend of the people"Description:
This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).
- Alvar
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Abelard
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"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.
- Berta
Origin:
Spanish, Catalan, Italian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Slovene, Scandinavian variation of BerthaMeaning:
"bright"Description:
A pan-European variant of Bertha and nickname for -berta ending names, such as Alberta and Roberta. It's certainly much more appealing than its predecessor, but unlikely to become a hit in the US anytime soon.
- Agathe
Origin:
French variation of Agatha, GreekMeaning:
"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 two-syllable French pronunciation is sure to trip up non-French speakers.
- 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.
- Bogart
Origin:
Dutch surnameMeaning:
"orchard"Description:
What it really means: you're a "Casablanca" fan.
- Arleigh
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Softer version of hot Harley or Marley.
- Claudelle
Description:
Claudelle is a feminine name that serves as a graceful elaboration of Claude, which derives from the Latin 'claudus,' meaning 'lame' or 'limping.' The additional '-elle' suffix adds a distinctly feminine, French-inspired elegance to the more gender-neutral Claude. This name carries a sophisticated, somewhat aristocratic air with its flowing syllables and soft ending. While never reaching widespread popularity, Claudelle has maintained a quiet presence throughout the twentieth century, particularly in French-speaking regions and among families with French heritage. The name suggests refinement and classical beauty, evoking images of vintage European charm. Claudelle offers a less common alternative to popular -elle names like Isabelle or Gabrielle, appealing to parents seeking a name with French roots and a touch of uncommon distinction.
- Berit
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of BirgitMeaning:
"exalted one"Description:
Well used in northern Europe, almost unknown in the US, Berit is could make an off-beat alternative to Betty, Beth, or Merritt for those with Scandinavian ancestry.