German Girl Names

Choosing a name for your baby girl is an important decision.

German baby girl names offer a blend of classic and contemporary options with rich histories and deep meanings.

Whether honoring German heritage or seeking something unique, each name carries its own charm.

Some names are popular and timeless, while others stand out for their uniqueness and beauty.

Here are some traditional, pretty, strong, and cute German baby girl names that might be perfect for your little one.

Popular and Common German Girl Names

Emilia

Emilia is a top choice in Germany. The name means “rival” and comes from the Latin name Aemilius.

It has gained popularity in several countries including the United States, England, Austria, Switzerland, and Poland.

Emilia appears in some of Shakespeare’s plays and is also the name of actress Emilia Clarke.

Mia

Mia is beloved internationally and means “mine” in Italian. It is a diminutive of Maria and stands well on its own.

The name is popular in Germany and many other countries.

Sophia

Sophia is widely admired for its meaning “wisdom” in Greek.

It became known in Britain through the German House of Hanover in the eighteenth century.

The name exudes elegance and is a great choice for a wise and sophisticated girl.

Emma

Emma, originating from Germany, means “whole” or “great.”

It’s a timeless name, associated with royalty such as Emma of Normandy and fictional characters like Jane Austen’s heroine.

Actresses Emma Thompson, Emma Stone, and Emma Watson also bear this name.

Hannah

Hannah has a biblical origin and means “grace.”

Its classic and endearing nature makes it a favorite in both Germany and the United States.

Lina

Lina is often a short form of names containing lina, such as Carolina.

This name is also of Arabic origin, meaning “tender.” It offers a unique blend of German and Arabic influences.

Mila

Mila, meaning “gracious” and “dear,” is of Russian origin.

It has become popular worldwide, including in Germany. Actress Mila Kunis is a well-known figure with this name.

Ella

Ella comes from English and German roots, derived from the name Alia, meaning “other.”

It serves as a diminutive for names like Eleanor and Ellen and is a popular choice for a little girl.

Leni

Leni is a less common name in the United States but is well-loved in Germany.

It is a diminutive of Helene or Magdalena and means “torch,” “moon,” or “high tower.”

Clara

Clara is a Latin-derived name meaning “clear, bright, and famous.”

It gained initial popularity through Saint Clare of Assisi and saw a resurgence in the nineteenth century. In Germany, Clara entered the top 20 names in 2015.

More Popular and Common German Girl Names

Here are additional names that are highly popular in Germany:

• Anna: A name of Hebrew origin meaning “grace.”
• Lea: Often associated with the meaning “meadow” or “weary”; a timeless choice.
• Marie: A French variant of Maria, widely used in Germany.
• Luisa: A German and Italian variant of Louise, meaning “renowned warrior.”
• Sofia: Another spelling of Sophia, sharing the same meaning and elegance.
• Johanna: A feminine form of John, meaning “God is gracious.”
• Leonie: Derived from the Latin word for “lioness,” symbolizing strength and bravery.
• Theresa: A name with Greek and Latin roots, often connected to “harvester.”
• Paulina: A Latin name meaning “small,” often seen as a classic and elegant choice.
• Eva: A Hebrew name meaning “life,” simple yet profound.

Unique and Rare German Girl Names

Anneliese

Anneliese is a graceful name with a meanings of “graceful, loving, and merciful.”

It combines Anna and Liese. In the United States, it is often spelled as Annalise and has gained some popularity.

Brunhilde

This name means “armored battle-maid.” It’s quite unique and was used by a sixth-century Frankish queen.

The name is deeply connected to Germanic mythology, making it a good pick for those who like mythological names.

Elke

Elke means “noble” and “kind.” The name is linked to Alice.

It is popular in Germany and has many famous bearers like actress Elke Sommer and writer Elke Heidenreich.

Freya

Freya is a name of German and Norse origin that means “noble lady.”

It comes from Old Norse and is associated with the Norse goddess of love, fertility, beauty, wealth, and war.

Freya is also called the “Lady of the Vanir.”

Gisela

Gisela means “pledge.” It is a popular name in Germany, and notable namesakes include Empress Gisela of the Holy Roman Empire and Gisela of Bavaria.

Gisela is also the name of a female saint in the Eastern Orthodox church.

Hedwig

Hedwig means “battling female warrior.”

It has been used since the Middle Ages and was borne by several German queens.

The name is also famous in literature, appearing in the Harry Potter series as the name of Harry’s snowy owl.

Hildegard

Meaning “battle-guardian,” Hildegard has a long history in Germany, dating back to the Middle Ages.

Modern nicknames include Hildie and Hilda. One well-known figure is Hildegard of Bingen, a twelfth-century Benedictine Abbess and polymath.

Karoline

Karoline is a unique German twist on the name Caroline with the meaning “free woman.”

It is associated with German royalty and romantic poet Karoline von Günderrode, as well as actress Karoline Herfurth.

Liselotte

This name combines Lise and Charlotte and means “God is my oath” or “free woman.”

One famous bearer of the name is actress Liselotte Pulver.

Thekla

Thekla translates to “divine fame.”

It is a rare name in the United States and has biblical roots as a follower of Paul the Apostle.

The name is also popular in Eastern European countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, and Russia.

More Unique German Girl Names

Here are even more unique German girl names to consider for your daughter:

1. Amalia – Meaning “work.”
2. Beatrix – Meaning “she who brings happiness.”
3. Erika – Meaning “eternal ruler.”
4. Greta – Meaning “pearl.”
5. Heidi – Meaning “nobility.”
6. Ingrid – Meaning “beautiful.”

Traditional and Old-Fashioned German Girl Names

Agnes

Agnes means “pure” or “holy” and was popular during the Middle Ages.

It is associated with Saint Agnes, a Christian martyr. Notable people with this name include dancer Agnes de Mille and actress Agnes Moorehead.

Bertha

Bertha means “bright” or “famous” and was a favorite in the nineteenth century.

Queen Bertha, a Frankish queen, helped spread Christianity in Europe. Bertha Benz, a German inventor, and Bertha Pappenheim, a social worker, are well-known figures with this name.

Dorothea

Dorothea translates to “gift of God.”

Popular in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, it is tied to Saint Dorothea, the patron saint of gardeners.

Helga

Helga is the German version of the Old Norse name Helgi, meaning “holy” or “blessed.”

It gained popularity in the twentieth century and is known from the character Helga Hufflepuff in the Harry Potter series.

Hilda

Hilda means “battle woman” and was trendy in the early 1900s.

It still retains some popularity today and could suit modern tastes.

Irma

Irma means “universal.” While it was common in the early 1900s, it has since declined in use.

Reviving this charming name could be a fresh choice.

Käthe

Käthe is the diminutive form of Katherine, meaning “pure.”

It has a unique spelling and is associated with German artist Käthe Kollwitz, making it perfect for a creative spirit.

Liesel

Liesel is a diminutive of Elizabeth. It gained recognition from the character Liesel Meminger in the novel The Book Thief.

Petra

Petra means “rock” and is the feminine form of Peter.

The name appears in Smiles of a Summer Night by Ingmar Bergman and The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant by Rainer Werner Fassbinder.

Ursula

Ursula means “little bear” in Latin.

Famous Ursulas include author Ursula K. Le Guin and actress Ursula Andress.

Pretty and Beautiful German Girl Names

Adele

Adele is a charming German name that comes from Adela. Its meaning is “noble.”

This name has been carried by notable people like dancer and actress Adele Astaire and the famous British singer known as Adele.

Alice

Alice is a sweet and feminine name that has its roots in the Old French name Aalis, a short form of Adelais.

Adelais, in turn, comes from the Germanic name Adalheidis. Alice means “noble” and gained popularity due to the tale Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

Annalie

Annalie is a delightful German name that combines Anna and Lie. The name means “grace” and “beloved.”

It’s quite popular in Germany and often shortened to Anna or Lila.

Carina

Carina is a lovely name that translates to “dear little one.”

First appearing in the twentieth century, it remains a favorite. Well-known figures with this name include Hong Kong actress Carina Lau and German actress Carina Wiese.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a classic and elegant name, the feminine form of Charles. Its meaning is “free woman.”

This name has historical significance, being the name of an eighteenth-century German queen consort of Britain and Ireland, as well as the English author Charlotte Bronte.

Diana

Diana is a beautiful name with the meaning “divine.”

In ancient Rome, Diana was the goddess of the hunt and the moon.

Famous Dianas include American singer Diana Ross and Princess Diana, the late Princess of Wales—a fitting choice for your little princess.

Evelin

Evelin is a pretty name that signifies “desired.”

It’s a lovely German option for those who also appreciate Irish names, as Eibhlín is the Irish equivalent.

Felizitas

The name Felizitas means “happiness” and “luck.”

It connects to ancient Rome, where it was the name of the goddess of good luck.

This name embodies the joy and fortune brought by the arrival of a baby girl.

Isabell

Isabell is a beautiful German variant of the name Isabel, translating to “God is my oath.”

It has been trendy in Germany since the 1990s. Notable Isabells include the German actress Isabell Horn and the figure skater Isabell Ost.

Sibylle

Sibylle is an enchanting name that means “prophetess.” This German version of Sibyl refers to the female prophets in Greek and Roman mythology.

It’s a unique and lovely choice for a baby girl.

More Pretty and Beautiful German Girl Names

• Helena: This name means “bright” or “shining light.” It’s the German form of Helen and has a royal feel.
• Lorelei: A name of folklore, Lorelei is believed to come from a rocky cliff overlooking the Rhine River, associated with a siren who lured sailors to their fate.
• Frieda: Meaning “peace,” Frieda is a name that conveys calm and harmony.
• Greta: A short form of Margareta, Greta means “pearl” and is elegant and timeless.
• Matilda: This name means “strength in battle” and carries historical significance.
• Hildegard: The name means “battle guard” and has a strong, powerful feel.
• Liesel: A German diminutive of Elizabeth, Liesel means “God is my oath” and is cherished for its simplicity and charm.
• Wilhelmina: Translating to “willful protector,” this name has a regal and determined tone.

Cute German Girl Names

Ada

Ada is a precious German name meaning “noble.” It’s a shorter version of names like Adelaide and Adelina.

This name has historical significance, being associated with a seventh-century saint and Augusta Ada King, the Countess of Lovelace, who worked with Charles Babbage on early mechanical computers.

Ada could be an inspiring choice for a little girl destined for great things.

Elsa

Elsa is a charming German and Italian name that serves as a shorter version of Elisabeth.

It gained modern popularity thanks to the character from Disney’s Frozen. Historically, Elsa von Brabant is a notable figure in medieval German tales and Richard Wagner’s opera Lohengrin.

Emmi

Emmi, a delightful name of German and Finnish origin, is a diminutive of Emily.

Emily itself comes from the Latin name Aemilia, which means “industrious.” Emmi offers a cute and unique twist on the more common Emily and Emma.

Gerda

Gerda is a lovely German name, short for Gerhardine, which comes from the Germanic name Gerhard meaning “strong spear.”

It’s simple, yet carries a sense of strength and resilience.

Greta

Greta is an adorable classic that means “pearl.” It is a shorter form of Margareta, which originates from the name Margaret.

This name is often linked to the renowned actress Greta Garbo, and also to Greta Gerwig, a noted actress, screenwriter, and director.

Heidi

Heidi is a darling German name that means “noble and kind.”

It is a pet form of Adelheid, derived from the Germanic name Adalheidis. Many will recognize Heidi from the beloved children’s novel about a spirited girl in the Swiss Alps.

Ilse

Ilse is a cute diminutive of Elisabeth in German. It offers a fresh take on the classic name, making it both unique and familiar at the same time.

Inga

Inga is a charming name of German origin, possibly connected to the Norse god Ing, symbolizing “ancestor.”

It might also be a short form of Ingeborg, derived from the Old Norse name Ingibjorg, meaning “Ing’s protection.”

Lotte

Lotte is a playful and short form of Charlotte, which comes from the French name Charles, meaning “famous warrior.”

It can also be derived from the German name Liselotte, a combination of Charlotte and Elizabeth. Lotte brings a sense of fun and lightness.

Mina

Mina is a sweet and delightful name meaning “love.”

It is a short form of Wilhelmina, which stems from the masculine name Wilhelm. This name brings warmth and affection with its loving connotations.

Strong and Powerful German Girl Names

Astrid

Astrid is a commanding German girl’s name meaning “divinely beautiful” or “godly strength.”

It was brought into the spotlight by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, renowned for her children’s books such as Pippi Longstocking.

Other illustrious figures with this name include Princess Astrid of Belgium and German actress Astrid M. Fünderich.

Brigitte

Meaning “strength” or “exalted one,” Brigitte is a robust German name.

French actress and model Brigitte Bardot popularized this name. Other famous Brigittes include Danish actress and model Brigitte Nielsen and Lebanese-American author and activist Brigitte Gabriel.

Else

Else, a short form of Elisabeth, means “noble” or “pledged to God.”

It was a beloved name in the early 1900s and remains in use today. Notable bearers include Danish-American author and illustrator Else Holmelund Minarik, creator of the Little Bear children’s book series.

Jutte

Jutte, which means “jewel” or “bright,” is a powerful and distinctive German name.

It’s an excellent choice for a girl who shines like a star.

Monika

Monika, a variant of Monica, means “advisor” in German.

Although less common in recent years, this strong and timeless name is due for a revival.

Nora

Nora, derived from the name Honora, means “honor” or “esteem” in Latin.

It gained favor in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and continues to be a popular choice in German-speaking regions.

Sabine

Sabine, coming from the ancient Roman tribe of the Sabines, is a compelling and elegant German name.

Pronounced zah-bee-nuh in German, it often gets shortened to the cute nickname Sabi.

Verena

Verena is a unique and strong German name meaning “integrity” or “truth.”

It’s typically associated with wisdom, independence, and inner strength, making it an inspirational name for a baby girl.

Xenia

Xenia, a name that is both German and Greek, means “hospitality.”

It represents warmth, kindness, and a friendly nature. Xenia offers a powerful yet welcoming touch to any girl’s name.

Yvonne

Yvonne, from the French meaning “yew tree,” symbolizes strength, resilience, and determination.

It’s a classic and elegant name that stands the test of time, perfect for a strong and graceful daughter.

More Strong and Powerful German Girl Names

Feel the power with even more strong German names and their meanings:

• Adelheid: Meaning “noble one.”
• Bertha: Signifying “bright one.”
• Frida: Meaning “peaceful ruler.”
• Gertrud: Signifying “strength of a spear.”
• Helga: Meaning “holy” or “blessed.”
• Ingrid: Combining “beauty” and “beloved.”
• Klara: Meaning “clear” or “bright.”
• Lieselotte: A combination of Elisabeth and Charlotte.
• Margarethe: Meaning “pearl.”
• Wilhelmina: Signifying “resolute protector.”

Cool German Names for Girls

Angelika

This name is the German version of Angelica, also seen in Hungary and Poland. It means “angelic,” making it a wonderful choice for a little angel.

Anuschka

A great pick for those who like both German and Russian names. Anuschka is a German form of the Russian name Annushka, which comes from Anna. It means “favor” and “grace.”

Augusta

This name stands out with its Latin roots and German usage. It means “great” or “venerable” and signifies strength, dignity, and leadership. King George III named his second daughter Augusta.

Babette

Babette is a charming and unique German name with French origins. It is a diminutive of Barbara, meaning “foreign woman” or “stranger.” Babette is a modern twist on the old-fashioned Barbara.

Beatrix

Meaning “voyager” or “blessed,” Beatrix is tied to intelligence, independence, and resilience.

The name is made cooler with its trendy X ending. Many associate it with Beatrix Potter, the author of Peter Rabbit.

Cäcilia

Cäcilia is the German form of Cecilia, which gives it a unique and cool flair. It means “blind” and is often linked to music, thanks to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music.

Dietlinde

Dietlinde means “ruler of the people” and comes from the Germanic name Theodelinda.

It was the name of a sixth-century Bavarian princess who became queen of the Lombards.

Eike

This is a name that can be used for both girls and boys. Eike has an edgy feel with its meanings of “blade” and “brave.”

Gretel

Gretel is a name that many will recognize from the fairytale Hansel and Gretel by the Brothers Grimm. It traces back to Margaret, meaning “pearl.”

Hertha

Hertha is a cool German name. It comes from the name Nerthus, linked to Germanic mythology.

Hertha was the goddess of fertility in Germanic legends.

More Cool German Names for Girls

Explore additional cool German names for girls:

• Liesl: A charming name meaning ‘pledged to God.’
• Klara: Bright and clear, Klara is straightforward and elegant.
• Elke: Short and sweet, this name means ‘noble.’
• Frieda: Peaceful and calming, this name means ‘peace.’
• Katja: A form of Katherine, meaning ‘pure.’

These names offer a mix of traditional charm and contemporary coolness, making them excellent choices for a modern little girl.