Popular 100+ German Girl Names and Their Meanings

When choosing a name for a newborn, parents often look for inspiration that resonates with their heritage, aspirations, and the uniqueness they wish to bestow upon their child. In recent years, German girl names have surged in popularity, thanks to their beautiful sounds, profound meanings, and timeless appeal.

Each name in our list has been carefully selected to include the most popular, unique, and traditionally significant names that reflect the German heritage. From classic names that have been cherished for generations to modern names that are currently trending, our list encompasses a wide array of choices to suit every preference.

This article presents a curated list of the top 100+ German girl names and their meanings, offering a diverse range of options for parents who are seeking a name that is both culturally rich and trendy.

List of Popular German Girl Names With Meaning

The most popular girl names in the UK feature a notable number of German origin names, reflecting their growing appeal and prominence. To assist parents and guardians in navigating this landscape, we’ve meticulously compiled and ranked these names based on the Office for National Statistics’ report on the 100 most popular girl names registered in England and Wales for the year 2021.

Among the standout Germanic girl names that have captivated the hearts of parents in the UK, Amelia shines brightly, securing a top position on the English/Welsh popularity list.

Alongside Amelia, names like Millie, Matilda, and Heidi are rapidly ascending the ranks, signaling a clear preference for names that blend traditional German heritage with a modern, chic sensibility.

Most Popular German Girls Names

Here is a list of all the most popular and beautiful German girls with their name, meaning and trend:

1. Amelia

• Origin: The name Amelia is of Latin and German origin. It evolved from the Germanic name Amalia, which derives from “amal,” meaning “work,” and implies industriousness and fertility.
• Meaning: Amelia carries the meaning of “work” and “strive,” reflecting diligence and perseverance.
• Trend: The popularity of Amelia has remained relatively stable over recent years. It’s a timeless choice that has managed to retain its appeal without significant fluctuations in popularity, indicating no major change in its trend.

2. Millie

• Origin: Millie is often considered a diminutive form of various names, including Mildred and Millicent, which are of German origin. It has evolved into a standalone name over time.
• Meaning: It means “gentle strength” and “industrious,” combining qualities of resilience with a soft, approachable nature.
• Trend: Millie has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity, moving up in the rankings. This trend suggests a growing preference for names that are both vintage and have a strong, yet gentle, connotation.

3. Matilda

• Origin: Of German origin, Matilda comes from the Old High German “Mahthildis,” which is derived from the elements “maht” (might, strength) and “hild” (battle).
• Meaning: The name means “strength in battle,” symbolizing power and bravery.
• Trend: Matilda has been gaining popularity, moving up in the rankings. Its appeal lies in its vintage charm and the empowering meaning it carries.

4. Alice

• Origin: Alice is of German origin, derived from the Old High German name Adalheidis (Adelaide), which is composed of the elements “adal” (noble) and “heid” (kind, sort, type).
• Meaning: It signifies “noble,” denoting nobility and a distinguished lineage.
• Trend: Despite its classic status, Alice has seen a slight decline in popularity recently, indicating a trend of moving down.

5. Ada

• Origin: Ada is a shorter form of names beginning with the Germanic element “adal,” meaning “noble.”
• Meaning: Like Alice, Ada means “noble,” emphasizing simplicity and elegance alongside its noble connotation.
• Trend: Ada has been experiencing a downward trend in popularity, though it remains a beloved choice for its vintage charm and brevity.

6. Emma

• Origin: Emma is of German origin, derived from the Germanic word “ermen,” meaning “whole” or “universal.”
• Meaning: It embodies the idea of “whole” or “universal,” suggesting inclusiveness and comprehensiveness.
• Trend: Emma has been moving down in popularity rankings, though it remains a highly favored name due to its timeless appeal and simplicity.

7. Harriet

• Origin: Harriet, while often associated with Germanic origins, is actually an English name derived from Henriette, the French feminine form of Henri. The Germanic counterpart would be Heinrich, from which Henri is derived, meaning “home ruler.”
• Meaning: It means “home ruler,” indicating leadership and a strong domestic influence.
• Trend: Harriet has been moving down in popularity, possibly due to its traditional nature in an era where more unique names are in vogue.

8. Robyn

• Origin: Robyn, the feminine variant of Robert, has Germanic origins. Robert comes from the Old High German Hrodebert, meaning “bright fame.”
• Meaning: It means “bright, famous,” reflecting a personality that shines brightly and is destined for recognition.
• Trend: Robyn has been moving up, likely due to its appealing sound and the growing trend for gender-neutral names.

9. Heidi

• Origin: Heidi is of German origin, a diminutive of Adelheid, which is derived from the Germanic elements “adal” (noble) and “heid” (kind, sort, type).
• Meaning: It means “of noble birth,” emphasizing nobility and distinguished heritage.
• Trend: Heidi has been moving up in popularity, buoyed by its association with the classic children’s book by Johanna Spyri and its timeless, endearing sound.

10. Myla

• Origin: Myla is a name with multiple origins, including Latin, German, and French. It is often considered a modern creation, possibly inspired by similar-sounding names or derived from the Slavic name Mila.
• Meaning: The meanings associated with Myla include “soldier” and “merciful,” reflecting a blend of strength and compassion.
• Trend: Myla has been moving up in popularity, indicative of a trend towards unique, yet historically rooted names that offer a modern twist.

Traditional German Girl Names

11. Adelaide

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: high-born

12. Adelheid

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: nobility

13. Adeline

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: noble
• Also: Adelin, Adaline, Adalyn, Adalynn, Adelyn, Adalene, Adeleine

14. Albertina

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: noble and bright

15. Alesha

• Origin: Old Germanic
• Meaning: noble
• Also: Aleesha

16. Almut

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: noble mind

17. Alruna

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: one who maintains a secret

18. Alvina

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: noble friend
• Also: Vina

19. Annalise

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: devoted to God

20. Armgard

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: guardian

21. Bertha

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: bright one
• Also: Berta

22. Carolin

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: the free one
• Also: Karolin

23. Dietlinde

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: soft

24. Edelgard

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: noble guard or protector
• Also: Adalgard, Edelgart, Ethelgard

25. Edeline

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: noble, gracious
• Also: Edaline

26. Eloise

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: healthy

27. Emmeline

• Origin: Medieval German
• Meaning: hardworking
• Also: Emiline, Emmaline, Ameline

28. Emmie

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: universal
• Also: Emmi, Emmy

29. Erna

• Origin: Old German and Norse
• Meaning: capable, earnest

30. Ernestine

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: serious

31. Federica

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: peaceful ruler

32. Friederike

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: peaceful ruler
• Also: Friedl

33. Frodelinde

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: mature, wise

34. Frolinde

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: mature

35. Gerlinde

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: flexible

36. Giselle

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: a promise
• Also: Gisela, Gisele

37. Helma

Origin: Old German

• Meaning: protector

38. Hilma

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: protective helmet

39. Irmgard

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: universal

40. Irmina

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: universal

41. Irmtraud

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: all loved

42. Liebtraud

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: lovely and powerful
• Also: Liebetraud

43. Lotta

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: free man
• Also: Lotty, Lote, Loti

44. Luitgard

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: guardian of the people

45. Orlantha

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: from the land

46. Ortrud

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: sharp point
• Also: Ortrude, Ortraud

47. Ramona

• Origin: Old German, Romanian and Spanish
• Meaning: wise protector

48. Ricarda

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: powerful ruler

49. Saskia

• Origin: Old Germanic
• Meaning: a Saxon woman

50. Ulrike

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: rich, powerful heritage
• Also: Ulrikke, Ulrich, Ulrica

51. Wilhelmina

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: will helmet or protection

Modern German Girl names

Not all German baby girl names are traditional and rooted in the Old German language, of course; there are plenty of German girl names that have a much more modern, contemporary feel and linguistic origin. We’ve chosen our favourites here: some have meanings rooted in nobility – a common theme in more old-fashioned German girl names, too – but others have meanings that resonate a more present-day feel, with a focus on light, peace and the natural world.

52. Adalberta

• Origin: German
• Meaning: noble, bright
• Also: Adelberta

53. Adela

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: noble

54. Adele

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: nobility
• Also: Adelle, Adel

55. Adelia

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: noble

56. Annalise

• Origin: German
• Meaning: graced with God’s bounty
• Also: Annaliese, Analiese

57. Aubrey

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: ruler of elves

58. Carly

• Origin: German
• Meaning: free woman
• Also: Karlee

59. Carrie

• Origin: German
• Meaning: free

60. Elke

• Origin: Low German and East Frisian
• Meaning: of noble birth

61. Engela

• Origin: German
• Meaning: angel
• Also: Engla

62. Ermengarde

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: universal protection
• Also: Ermengard, Ermingarde

63. Frauke

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: little lady

64. Frida

• Origin: German
• Meaning: peace
• Also: Frieda, Freda, Freida

65. Geneva

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: juniper tree

66. Geralyn

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: spear ruler

67. Gilda

• Origin: German
• Meaning: offering

68. Gretel

• Origin: German
• Meaning: pearl

69. Griselda

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: dark battle

70. Hattie

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: home ruler

71. Heike

• Origin: Low German
• Meaning: home ruler

72. Hilda

• Origin: German/Danish
• Meaning: maid of battle

73. Huberte

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: bright or shining intellect

75. Ingeborg

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: Under the protection of Ing
• Also: Inge

76. Katrin

• Origin: German and Swedish
• Meaning: pure
• Also: Kat

77. Leisl

• Origin: German
• Meaning: God’s promise
• Also: Liesel, Liesl

78. Lieselotte

• Origin: German
• Meaning: oath to God
• Also: Liselotte, Liselot

79. Louise

• Origin: German/French
• Meaning: famous warrior

80. Mareike

• Origin: Low German
• Meaning: of the sea

81. Marlene

• Origin: German
• Meaning: compound of Mary and Magdalene

82. Meike

• Origin: German and Dutch
• Meaning: sea of bitterness

83. Norma

• Origin: German
• Meaning: Norsewoman
• Also: Normah, Normi, Normie

84. Ottilie

• Origin: German
• Meaning: wealth
• Also: Otti

85. Rieka

• Origin: German
• Meaning: peaceful ruler

86. Roberta

• Origin: German
• Meaning: bright fame
• Also: Roberte, Robertine

87. Senta

• Origin: German and Latin
• Meaning: journey

88. Sieglinde

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: victory and soft, flexible

89. Silke

• Origin: German diminutive of Celia
• Meaning: heaven
• Also: Silja

90. Wilda

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: untamed

91. Wilma

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: wishing protection

92. Yvonna

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: Yew

Short German girl names

These lovely German girl names only a few letters and no more than syllables, making them short but beautiful in their simplicity. The names are as follows:

93. Alda

• Origin: German
• Meaning: old

94. Ebba

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: strong
• Also: Ebbe

95. Elma

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: noble, famous

96. Erna

• Origin: Old Norse and Old High German
• Meaning: earnest, serious

97. Ida

• Origin: Ancient Germanic
• Meaning: hard-working

98. Ilse

• Origin: German
• Meaning: pledged to God

99. Irma

• Origin: Old High German
• Meaning: ubiquitous, universal, complete

100. Maud

• Origin: Old German
• Meaning: powerful battler
• Also: Maude, Maudy

101. Uta

• Origin: Medieval German
• Meaning: prosperity

102. Ute

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: prosperous

Unique and Rare for German girl names

103. Alda

• Origin: German
• Meaning: old

104. Ebba

• Origin: Germanic languages
• Meaning: strong
• Also: Ebbe

105. Frieda

• Origin: German
• Meaning: peace

106. Hulda

• Origin: German
• Meaning: sweet, lovable

107. Ilse

• Origin: German
• Meaning: pledged to God

108. Jutta

• Origin: German
• Meaning: from the tribe of the Jutes

109. Kerstin

• Origin: German
• Meaning: Christian

110. Liesl

• Origin: German
• Meaning: God is my oath

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting a name for your baby girl is a deeply personal decision that carries with it a sense of identity and heritage. This list of 100+ German girl names has presented a diverse range of options, from traditional to modern, pretty to rare each carrying its own unique charm and history.

Whether you are drawn to the timeless appeal of names like Emma and Sophia, or the more contemporary choices like Mila and Lina, there is something for everyone. It’s important to choose a name that not only resonates with you but also holds potential for your child to embrace and cherish as they grow.

Top 100+ German Girl Names and Their Meanings – FAQs

What is the prettiest German girl name?

Determining the “prettiest” German girl name is subjective and varies based on personal preferences. However, one name that is often mentioned for its beauty is “Lieselotte.” It combines “Liesel” (a diminutive of Elisabeth, meaning “God is my oath”) with “Lotte” (a diminutive of Charlotte, meaning “free man” or “petite”), creating a name that is both traditional and melodious.

What is most unique German Girl name?

Anneliese is one of the most unique German girls’ name meaning “graceful, loving, and merciful.”

What is the most popular name for a girl in Germany?

The most popular names in Germany in 2023 were Emilia and Noah at Number 1. Along with Emilia, the other girl names in the German Top 5 are Emma, Sophia, Hannah, and Mia. Along with Noah, other top boy names in Germany include Matteo, Elias, Leon, and Paul.

What German girl name means pure?

Katrina: More popular than many others here, Katrina is a beloved German name meaning “pure.” It is the German version of Katherine. Lina: Currently ranked #6 in Germany for girls, this pretty moniker means “tender” and cracked the top 800 girls’ names in the United States in 2018.

What German name means angel?

If you want a straightforward angel-inspired name, go with Engel. Engel is the German variation of the name Angel. Ingal, its variation, is the name of the Old Norse God. This name is used widely in Germany.