401 Germanic Baby Names With Meanings
Explore this melting pot of names from the Indo-European language family.
Germany has a deep cultural history and is a source of many Germanic baby names. These names also derive from Northern European traditions and have a special appeal for modern parents looking for a timeless and charming name for their baby. Selecting an appropriate baby name is a huge responsibility, especially if you're a first-time parent. There are so many factors and options to consider that it may sometimes feel overwhelming. Should you go for something new or a tried and tested family name? Or a name based on heritage or characteristics? How about picking something entirely unconventional, like a Germanic baby name? Germanic names originated centuries ago among Northern European residents and Germanic tribes, such as Saxons, Angles, Vandals, Goths, Franks, and other Teutonic speakers, are still heard in specific regions of Germany and Europe.
Naming customs in Germany are quite similar to those in Anglo-Australian cultures. People usually receive three names: a first name, a middle name, and a last name (also called a family name). The last name is often passed down from the father's family, and the middle names are usually of the child's grandparents, but this practice has diminished over time. Today, parents can choose first and middle names, typically opting for names matching the child's gender. However, most Germanic first names are composed of two parts. This allowed people to create new names by combining parts from different names. Germanic people also used names from saints and Latin. Although last names weren't used earlier, they came into play in German-speaking Europe during the late middle ages. From the cultural heritage of Germania, Germanic mythology, and tribal groups of combatants, we bring you the names that gave rise to English, the most widely spoken language in the world. For complete details on the name, such as its origin, meaning, and history, just click the specific name link.
Name | Gender | Meaning | |
---|---|---|---|
Achard | Boy | Medieval Norman form of Ekkehard. It means brave and hardy | |
Aide | Girl | honorable; Noble; Helpful | |
Ailish | Girl | Variant of Alice | |
Aimeric | Boy | Hard working | |
Aimory | Boy | Brilliant | |
Aindhadi | Boy | Famous star | |
Ainhoa | Girl | Virgin Mary | |
Ainslee | Girl | Only hermitage wood; Only clearing | |
Ansen | Unisex | Son of Ann; God's gracious gift | |
Archambault | Boy | Genuine; Bold; Brave | |
Ashman | Boy | Seaman; Pirate; One who travelled in an ash wood boat; Boatman | |
Aymeric | Boy | King of work; A variant of the name Aimery | |
Beorhthere | Boy | An army of light | |
Beorhtirc | Boy | He who is the ruler of light | |
Beorhtmaer | Boy | One who is famous for his brightness | |
Beorhtmund | Boy | He is a protector of light | |
Beorhtnoth | Boy | One who has the courage of the light | |
Beorhtric | Boy | He who is the King of the light | |
Beorhtsige | Boy | The victory of light over the darkness | |
Beorhtstan | Boy | The light of the stone | |
Beorhtwig | Boy | The battle of the light | |
Beorhtwine | Boy | He is a friend of the light | |
Beorhtwulf | Boy | To have the light and brightness of a wolf | |
Beorhtwynn | Boy | The joy the light brings | |
Beorna | Boy | A woman who is as strong as a bear | |
Beornfred | Boy | One who is the protector of the bears | |
Beornfrith | Boy | A man who is protective like a bear | |
Beornhelm | Boy | One who lives near the place inhabited by bears | |
Beornmod | Boy | He who guards and protects like a bear | |
Beornmund | Boy | He who is protective like a bear | |
Beornnoth | Boy | To have the courage of a bear | |
Beornoth | Boy | To be brave like a bear | |
Beornred | Boy | He who is like a red bear | |
Beornric | Boy | One who is the Bear King | |
Beornstan | Boy | He who comes from the Bear stone | |
Beornwald | Boy | He is powerful like a bear | |
Beornward | Boy | He who guards like a bear | |
Beornwynn | Boy | One who is a friend of bears | |
Beorthelm | Boy | He who is a bear protector | |
Beorthmaer | Boy | He who is a famous bear | |
Beorthwulf | Boy | One who is like a bear and a wolf | |
Beorward | Boy | He who has the Bear's Power | |
Berad | Boy | He who is bright | |
Beran | Boy | He who has the strength and bravery of a bear | |
Berat | Boy | One who is bright | |
Berchthild | Boy | The war of the bright men | |
Bercta | Girl | An illustrious woman who shines brightly | |
Bercthun | Boy | A man who shines brightly | |
Berenwald | Boy | He who has the power of a bear | |
Berhtric | Boy | He who is the King of the Light | |
Berhtwald | Boy | To have the power of the light | |
Berhtwulf | Boy | He is the wolf of the light | |
Bermund | Boy | He who has a bear's protectiveness | |
Bernulf | Boy | He who is like a wolf and a bear | |
Bernwini | Boy | He who is a friend of a bear | |
Berthelm | Boy | Having bright power | |
Berthguin | Boy | A shining one | |
Berthun | Boy | A person who is bright | |
Bertilak | Boy | The playful dance of the light | |
Bertred | Boy | Red colored light | |
Bertulf | Boy | To be like a wolf and bear | |
Bertwald | Boy | One who is a powerful bear | |
Billa | Girl | Beautiful; Will; Desire; A variant of name Billie | |
Bodo | Boy | One who is messenger and a leader | |
Emerico | Boy | The power of work | |
Emric | Unisex | Powerful ruler | |
Faramundo | Boy | The one who travels with protection and shelter | |
Frideriki | Boy | A friend who is very honest in relationship | |
Garreck | Boy | A very long ponted rod used as a tool or weapon; Spear | |
Garrik | Boy | One who is an expert at javelin throw | |
Garvyn | Boy | Close mate who is in the midst of problems and difficulties | |
Gatien | Boy | Greeting, Receiving | |
Gaulterio | Boy | The head of the military | |
Gearalt | Boy | Power of the spear | |
Gebhard | Boy | Gift of bold or valiant; Powerful | |
Gedel | Boy | A good God | |
Geiger | Boy | The one who plays violin very well | |
Gen | Girl | The lady of the congregation | |
Geneva | Girl | Juniper shrub | |
Geneve | Girl | Woman who is engaging in running | |
Genovefa | Girl | The one who is mild, gentle and pleasant | |
Ghost | Unisex | Mysterious and elusive entity | |
Gildardo | Boy | God | |
Gilen | Boy | Hostage; Vow | |
Ginette | Girl | The race of women | |
Gipe | Boy | Dirt of grime | |
Girard | Boy | Brave with the spear | |
Girardus | Boy | Firm spear | |
Giraud | Boy | The spear ruler; Spear brave | |
Girauld | Boy | Commands with a spear | |
Gisela | Girl | Pledge | |
Gisele | Girl | Pledge or hostage | |
Gisella | Girl | Pledge; Hostage | |
Gisselle | Girl | Pledge; Hostage | |
Gistin | Boy | Just | |
Godeheard | Boy | A person who receives power and solidity as a gift from God | |
Godoired | Boy | God's peaceful ruler; A variant of Godfrey | |
Godyf | Boy | God's peace | |
Gofried | Boy | God's peace | |
Grey | Boy | Gray-haired; Pleasing; Welcome; Brindled coloration | |
Germanic baby names serve as an excellent link to Northern European heritage. Blending ancient roots, culture, and creativity, these names charm modern parents in search of a title with a classic essence and lasting meaning. Emerging from Germanic myths, tribal tales, and folklore, these names have impacted global languages. From simple choices like Aide to popular ones like Raymond, these names suit various preferences. Just as naming mirrors parental responsibility, these names embody heritage and future aspirations.
Infographic: Elegant Germanic Baby Names
German baby names have deep meanings that mirror the culture and history of Germany. These names strongly connect to the language's rich heritage and hold special meanings. These handpicked names represent qualities such as strength, nobility, and devotion. Explore and find the ideal name for your child through this infographic and embrace the beauty of German heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some gender-neutral Germanic baby names?
Some gender-neutral Germanic baby names are Kai, with its persistent essence, embodies the spirit of a warrior; Alex, a timeless choice, symbolizes the noble role of defending humanity; and Riley, evoking the tranquility of a peaceful wood clearing, brings a sense of harmony and natural beauty.
2. What are some cultural or historical references in Germanic baby names?
Germanic baby names frequently encompass cultural or historical allusions. For instance, the masculine name Siegfried may be traced back to the German prince who, according to a legend, became invincible after bathing with the blood of the dragon he slayed (1). Similarly, names like Friedrich and Wilhelm pay tribute to esteemed historical figures, including German emperors and leaders. These names embody the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Germanic tradition.
3. What are some Germanic baby names with religious significance?
Hilda, derived from the Germanic goddess associated with warfare, reflects the theme of combat, and Engelbert, meaning bright angel, signifies a connection to celestial beings. Additionally, Gottfried, meaning God's peace, emphasizes the divine concept of harmony.
4. What Germanic name means lion?
Names such as Leopold, Leonhard, and Lionel encompass the essence of bravery and majesty linked to the lion. These names evoke the courageous and regal qualities that are often associated with the king of the animal kingdom.
5. How are Germanic baby names traditionally chosen, and what is their significance?
Germanic baby names are traditionally formed by combining a prefix and a suffix, creating meaningful dithematic names with rich symbolism. For example, King Æþelred's name combines 'æþele' (noble) and 'ræd' (counsel) to highlight his noble and wise qualities.
References
- The exciting legend of Siegfried the dragon slayer!
https://ukgermanconnection.org/kids/find-out-en/siegfried/#:~:text=Siegfried%20was%20a%20prince%20and
Look Up For Many More Names
Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.