German baby names
Updated: April 9th, 2024
In Germany parents follow a strict rule for naming their Child. For obtaining the birth certificate of a German baby, his/ her name must be approved by the civil registration office (Standesamt). Germanic baby names consist of one or more first names (Vornamen) followed by a surname (Nachname).
German babies' first name i.e. the Vornaman is usually gender-specific and mostly are taken from Biblical names such as John, George, or Jacob; or from Germanic names such as Frederick or Louis. German babies have several first names, out of which one designated as their "call name" also known as Rufname which is usually underlined on official documents. The Germanic surnames are derived either from occupations, family, bodily feature or from geographical origin. A woman traditionally adopted her husband's name and would occasionally retain their maiden name by hyphenation, in a so-called Doppelname. But in recent times, a married couple is allowed to choose the surname they want to use.
Check out the extensive list of over 7000 names given to babies in Germany.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZAlice
From the German Adalhaidis, meaning "noble," this literary classic gained modern charm thanks to Alice in Wonderland and widespread use across Europe.
William
From Germanic roots meaning “resolute protection,” William has been a royal and literary name for centuries.
Thomas
With Aramaic roots meaning “twin,” Thomas is a Biblical mainstay that's never strayed far from the top.
Henry
A royal German name meaning “estate ruler,” Henry is a classic that’s reclaimed its place in the Top 10.
Evelyn
Once a masculine surname, Evelyn became a soft and stylish girls’ name meaning “wished for child” or “island,” now a modern Top 10 pick.
Louis
French and German for “renowned warrior,” this royal favorite gained renewed attention through Prince Louis.
Charlotte
The French feminine form of Charles, meaning "free man," it’s a royal favorite and a global top pick with nicknames like Lottie.
Clara
Meaning "bright" or "clear" in Latin, Clara is a vintage gem tied to ballet, music, and 19th-century heroines.
Hazel
Taken from the hazelnut tree, this nature-inspired English name has vintage roots and literary associations.
Anna
This Hebrew name meaning "grace" links to Saint Anne and bridges cultures worldwide, from biblical roots to Disney’s Frozen.
Emma
Meaning “universal” in German, this royal classic surged in popularity after being chosen on Friends and by stars like Emma Watson.
Lillian
Meaning either “pledged to God” or often connected to the lily flower, Lillian is vintage darling with grace and tradition plus the added sweetness of Lily.
Alexander
Derived from Greek element "aléxein," mainly associated with Macedonian king, Alexander the Great
Anthony
It evolved from Antony, possibly influenced by the Greek word "anthos" (flower). Popular in various cultures, it's known for its versatility and classic charm, with notable bearers like Anthony Hopkins and Tony Hawk.
Edith
This Anglo-Saxon name means "prosperous in war" and once belonged to queens, first ladies, and literary heroines alike.
Audrey
An English name meaning "noble strength," it was revived by Audrey Hepburn and stems from the Anglo-Saxon Aethelthryth.
Lucy
This light-filled Latin classic, derived from lux, has been beloved from saints to sitcoms to activist Lucy Stone.
Laura
Latin for “laurel” or “victory”, Laura was immortalized by poet Petrarch.
Catherine
Greek for "pure," this timeless name has royal, saintly, and literary roots, and remains elegant in its softer C-spelling.
Esther
Derived from Persian for “star,” Esther is a biblical heroine whose story is central to the Jewish holiday of Purim.
Nancy
Originally a pet form of Ann, Nancy means “grace” and rose from literary heroine to political mainstay.
Adam
A Hebrew name meaning “son of the red earth,” Adam is both mankind’s origin and a perennial favorite.
Zachary
This Hebrew name means “the Lord has remembered,” and links Biblical tradition with a streak of 90s cool.
Felix
Latin for “happy” or “fortunate,” Felix mixes Roman heritage with global popularity
Frederick
Meaning “peaceful ruler” in German, Frederick honors figures from Frederick Douglass to Shakespearean characters.
Diana
This Latin name meaning "divine" refers to the Roman goddess of the moon and gained poignancy through Princess Diana.
Nora
Possibly linked to Honora or Eleanor, Nora has a bright meaning of “light.”
Calvin
Latin in origin and meaning “bald,” Calvin has intellectual roots and modern flair thanks to fashion and comics.
Mabel
Latin for “lovable,” Mabel was a Top 20 charmer in the Victorian era and is making a spirited comeback.
Philip
Greek for “lover of horses,” this regal name spans apostles, monarchs, and literary legends
Violet
Pure, Gentle, Bluish Purple, Viola
Ralph
Meaning “wolf-counsel,” Ralph has noble roots and an interesting history
Cora
Cora, from Greek for "maiden," links to Persephone's myth and Downton Abbey’s countess, making it both ancient and trendy.
David
A timeless Hebrew name meaning “beloved,” tied to the biblical king.
Isaac
A Hebrew name meaning “laughter,” rooted in the story of a long-awaited son born to Abraham and Sarah.
Ruth
A Hebrew name that means "compassionate friend," Ruth is a quietly classic name associated with the Bible as well as loyalty and grit.
Ella
Ella comes from Germanic and Hebrew roots meaning "all" or "goddess," and has surged in modern popularity thanks to its elegant simplicity.
Caroline
From the French meaning "free man," Caroline has royal and presidential links and remains a timeless classic.
Otis
A German name meaning “wealthy,” Otis made a stylish return thanks.
Amelia
Derived from the German Amalia meaning "work," Amelia rose globally in the 2000s.
Daisy
English in origin and meaning "day's eye," Daisy is a bright floral name with strong literary and pop culture roots.
Harvey
Brought by the Normans, Harvey means “battle worthy” and is quietly rising again.
Ernest
Derived from Germanic roots, this name means “serious” or “resolute” and famously featured in Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy.
Genevieve
From medieval German roots meaning “tribe woman,” Genevieve combines saintly strength with French elegance.
Paul
Latin for “small,” Paul is a timeless classic with deep Biblical roots and a legacy from saints to pop stars.
Eric
A name of Old Norse origin meaning “eternal ruler,” Eric is tied to Viking explorers and peaked in mid-century America.
Ada
From the German root adal meaning "noble," Ada also has Turkish origins where it means "island" and has regained popularity as a vintage, vowel-starting name.
Russell
This French-rooted name meaning “redhead” saw peak popularity mid-century and lives on through sports and screen stars.
Alfred
An Old English name meaning “wise counselor,” Alfred owes much of its past prestige to Alfred the Great, the scholarly 10th-century king of Wessex.
Agnes
A Greek name meaning "pure," Agnes was once a medieval favorite, with Saint Agnes boosting its popularity.
Elaine
Elaine is a French-Scottish form of Helen that means “bright light.” It has strong Arthurian associations, but could also fit mid-century style.
Rachel
Hebrew for "ewe," Rachel is a biblically classic name that has universal appeal. Literary and television characters have also helped maintain Rachel's popularity.
Claudia
The ancient Roman name Claudia means "lame" or "enclosure" yet maintains its presence through classic usage
Luke
A Greek-derived name meaning “man from Lucania,” Luke brings Biblical depth.
Lewis
An English name meaning "renowned warrior," Lewis was once a U.S. Top 100 pick and is still widely used in Scotland and beyond.
Brian
Of Irish origin meaning "strong and noble," Brian is tied to legendary king Brian Boru and saw decades of popularity in the U.S.
Jennifer
Jennifer is a Cornish form of Guinevere meaning “white wave” and dominated of the most popular names of the late 20th century.
Madeline
This classic English name meaning "high tower" gained lasting appeal through literature and the well-loved Madeline children's series.
Flora
Flora is Latin for “flower.” She’s a goddess and the heroine of a Scottish fairy tale, with a sweet vintage vibe.
Molly
Originally a medieval pet form of Mary, Molly means "bitter" and remains a friendly, familiar name with Irish and literary links.
Hannah
Hannah is Hebrew for “grace.” This old-timey biblical name is popular all over the world with soft power.
Richard
A Germanic name for “dominant ruler,” Richard has royal pedigree but feels formal.
Archie
Meaning “truly brave” in German, this friendly nickname for Archibald saw a royal resurgence thanks to Prince Harry and Meghan's son.
Warren
Of English and French origin, Warren means “park-keeper” and once honored a Revolutionary War hero.
Eloise
Forest, Choice, Whole, Wood
Hugo
A Latinized form of Hugh with extra flair, Hugo has gained popularity.
Eugene
Greek for “wellborn” or “noble,” Eugene once ranked among America’s most popular names.
Hattie
Originating in English and meaning “estate ruler,” Hattie has a feisty, antique sound and is currently more popular than Harriet.
Elena
Sun, Variant of Helen, Excellent, The Bright One
Hugh
With roots in Old German and English, Hugh means “mind” or “intellect” and has been a steady presence in Irish and British history.
Vivian
The Word Vivus with the Meaning Alive Lively, Vivid
Ida
Industrious, Virgin, Woman, Goodness
Natalie
To be Born-from Natalia, Form of Natalie, Born on Christmas, Christ's Birthday
Rosemary
Dew of the Sea, Mary, Bitter Rose
Caleb
Bold, Messenger, Whole Hearted, Faith
Miriam
Sea of Sorrow, Scraped, Prophetess, Drop
Cassandra
Warrior, Virile, Protrude, Man
Raymond
Guards Wisely, Advice, Decision Protector, Strong Defender
Roger
Famous Warrior, Fame, Glory and Launches, Renowned Spearman
Harriet
Homeland, Estate, Ruler of an Enclosure, Rich
Amanda
The Lovely, In Love, Gracious, Deserving to be Loved
Jonathan
Yahweh has Given, Gift of Jehovah
Lola
Sorrow, Fickle, Carl, Goddess Lakshmi
Cedric
Battle Chieftain, Beloved, Pattern of Generosity, Kindly and Love
Nicole
Female Version of Nicholas
Guy
Warrior, Valley, Staff of the God, Wood
Anne
Eagle, God is Gracious, Grace, Variant of Hebrew Hannah
Otto
Born Eighth, Fortune, Famous, Possession
Sophie
Skill, Wisdom
Ethan
Strong, Heaven, Durable, The Enduring
Alexandra
Feminine of Alexander, To Defend, Protect and Man, Manly
Olive
Kind One, The Olive, Peace
Wilbur
Desire, Brilliant, Will, Dearly Loved Stronghold
Bridget
Saint, The Exalted One, Strength, Power
Edmund
Wealthy Defender, Wealth and Protection, Guardian of Possession, Rich Protector
Alan
Noble, Little Rock, Peace, God of Shine
Dennis
God of Wine, Dedicated to Dionysos, Named for Saint Denys
Priscilla
Time-Honored, Ancient, Antique, Primitive
Vanessa
Star, Coined from, Genus of Butterfly
Roland
Famous Land Owner, Fame, Domain, Homeland
Colin
Victor, Young Creature, Dove, Abbreviation of Nicholas People's Victory
Etta
Pearl, Fight, Little One, Diminutive of Henrietta
Alicia
German Origin and Means Noble
Leonard
Lion, Strong, Brave, Hardy
Winifred
Frewi, Holy, Peace Friend, Fair Reconciliation
Lottie
Vigorous, Strong, Man, Husband
Abigail
My Father Rejoices, The Intelligent
Reuben
A Son!, Behold
Christina
Disciple of Christ, Beautiful Christian, The Anointed One, Christ-bearer
Graham
Spear and Hard, Gravelly Place Gray House, Strong, Warlike
Justin
The Just, Righteous, Singer, Judicious
Maxine
Greatest, Great Woman
Harrison
Son of Harry, Harry's Son
Adeline
Brightness, Sweet, Honorable, Nobility
Robin
Shining, Bright, Glory and Brilliant, A Bird Name
Marilyn
Modern, Combination of Mary and Ellen, Wished for Child, Bitterness
Minnie
Helmet, Offered to the Lord, Composition, Will
Willa
Will, Protection, Desire, Helmet
Marco
Dedicated to the God Mars, Dedicated to Mars (The Roman God of War)
Ingrid
Meadow, Inge, Hero's Daughter, Composition
Conrad
Honest Adviser, Wise Counselor, Bold Ruler, Brave
Ellen
Burst of the Sun, Brightness, Mercy, Moon
Matilda
Composition Of: 'Power', Battle Maiden, Fight, Powerful Warrior
Andrea
Manly, A Man's Woman, Feminine Form of Andrew, Man Ones
Erin
Peace, The Word Éire with the Meaning Ireland, Beauty
Delia
Of Delos, Visible, Delightful, Faithful
Derek
Ruler of the People
Edgar
Blessed, Owner of Spear, Wealth, Possession
Christine
Christian Faith, Follower of Christ, The Anointed One
Millie
Form of Mildred, Gentle Strength, Honey, Bee
Ben
Son of the Right Hand, Meadow with Coarse Grass, Benjamin, Bärenstarke
Jared
Descent, Descending One who Rules, To Descend, He Descends
Winston
Farmstead Or Village of Wine, Pleasant Stone, Homestead, Friend
Lana
Greek, To Be Gentle, Latin, Buoyant
Pamela
Honeyed Sweetness, All Honey, Palombe, New Leaves
Camille
Attendant for a Temple, Swiftness of Foot, Honorable Births, Acolyte
Jamie
Supplant, One who Supplants, Feminine of James, Derived from the Latin Jacomus
May
Princess of the Sea, Bitter, T, Wished-for Child
Evangeline
Good News
Cornelius
Horned, Strong Willed, Wise, Like a Horn
Bianca
The White, Glossy
Judith
Woman from Judea, Jewish, Admired, Praised
Lance
Homeland, Land, A Lance
Jeffrey
God and Peace, Divinely Peaceful, Area, Stranger
Garrett
Hardy, Mighty with a Spear, Brave
Della
Delight, Noble, Small Winged One, Heart
Harold
Strong and Glory, Powerful Ruler or Warrior, Army-power, Heroic Leader
Petra
The Stone, The Rock
Elsa
God's Promise, My God is Perfect, Nobility, Variant of Elizabeth
Orlando
Homeland, Domain, Glory and Earth, Renowned in the Land
Emil
Emulating, Inspired By An Ancient Roman Sex, Imitating, Rivaling
Althea
Healing, Sincere, The Word Althein Which is of the Meaning to Heal
Wanda
Vandals, Wend, Open Area, Look Healthy
Henrietta
Home Ruler, Mistress of the Household, House Owner, Homeland
Jenna
Pure, Fair Phantom, Well Born, Yahweh is Gracious
Dorothea
Gift, Form of Dorothy
Clement
Giving Mercy, Gentleness, The Element Clemens Meaning Merciful Gentle, Mild
Julie
Descended from Jupiter (Jove), Youth, Soft Bearded, Jove's Child
Kennedy
Originally Irish and meaning “misshapen head,” this is a surname-turned-first name.
Diego
Holder of the Heel, Supplanter, One Who Supplants, Yahweh May Protect
Marcella
Dedicated to Mars, Warlike, Female Version of Marcellus, Warring
Goldie
Golden, Precious Metal, Blond Hair, Gilded
Angela
Messenger of God Angel
Rosalind
Fame, Lime, Linden, Lime-Wood Shield
Bernard
Hardy, Strong, Courageous, Bärenstarke
Craig
Rocky Outcropping, Rock, Dweller by the Crag
Emery
Ruler of Work, House and Powerful King
Angelo
Messenger, Angel
Arturo
The Bear
Gerald
Mighty with a Spear, Rule
Janet
God is Merciful, Female Version of John
Gilbert
Hostage, Trusted, Bright, Illustrious Pledge
Morgan
Bright Sea, Sea-Born
Annette
Mercy, Gracious, Graceful, Favour
Margot
The Pearl, Variant of Margaret
Anton
Priceless, Who Eats Flower, Beyond Praise, Highly Praiseworthy
Irving
Green River, Boar Friend, Handsome and Fair, Army
Edna
Eithne, Joy, Rejuvenation, Pleasure, Bliss
Adelaide
Of Noble Figure
Kane
A Celtic name meaning “warrior,” also tied to cultures from Wales to Hawaii with meanings from “beautiful” to “man of the Eastern sky.”