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200+ German Girl Names & Their Meanings

If you’re searching for the ideal name for your daughter, you’re in for a treat. There is an abundance of elegant German names for baby girls, ranging from traditional to unique and charming, many of which carry a deep history, significant meaning, or notable namesake. Whether you wish to select a classic German name to pay homage to your German roots or prefer something more modern or distinctive, our compilation of popular, unique, traditional, beautiful, strong, or adorable German names for girls is sure to help you find a name that meets your preferences.

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Unique and Rare German Girl Names

Does your little one need a name from among the pretty names in Germany? Take a look at some of the names listed and make your own improvisations if you will. After all, one of the first questions you ask a person is their name! And this is the main rule followed in Germany.

1. Anna

Simple and elegant, Anna means ‘grace’ or ‘favour.’ It is a name that has stood the test of time and feels warm and strong.

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2. Carla

We don’t know which version came earlier, but the German spelling makes for a gorgeous beauty bound for free-spirited success and fame. Charla/Carla/Karla can also be used.

3. Ella

Stemming from the Germanic girls’ name Alia, meaning ‘other,’ Ella is a short, modern, and effortlessly adorable.

4. Emilia

Emilia is one of the top female name choices among Germans, and has also seen a rise in popularity in countries like Austria, Switzerland, Poland, the United States, and England. The name is for one who excels above all and makes a worthy rival.

5. Emily

With roots in Latin, this beloved name among Germans means ‘rival’ or ‘industrious.’ It’s cheerful, bright, and all-time classic.

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6. Emma

Meaning ‘universal’ or ‘to make whole’; the name is traditional and yet fashionable. From royal to cute, Emma looks elegant in all.

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7. Hannah

This name is meant to signify finding ‘God’s grace and favour in plenty.’ This lovely biblical name is an evergreen choice in Germany.

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8. Ida

Short but full of personality, Ida means ‘industrious one’ or ‘hardworking.’ It’s got vintage charm and a quiet strength to it.

9. Lea

Lea is a soft name meaning ‘weary’ or ‘meadow.’ It’s sweet, simple, and effortlessly graceful.

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10. Zoe

The name means ‘full of life’. Also spelt Zoey.

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More Unique and Rare German Girl Names

If you are looking for some extraordinary names for your little princess, try these inspirational names!

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Name Meaning
Leni/ Lenora/ Lenny/ Lenore Moon, torch, high tower
Lia Meadow, weary
Lilly Lily (flower name)
Lina Tender
Louisa/ Luisa One who wins renown in the battles of life
Marie Beloved, bitter
Mathilda Strength in battle
Mia The one who is dear to all
Mila Gracious, dear
Sophie/ Sophia Great wisdom, knowledge is yours

You will come across well-known names like Mia, Emma, and Ella among the most popular girl names in Germany in recent years. Continue reading for additional popular names for girls in Germany.

1. Adelheid

Adelheid is a vintage name that means ‘noble kind’ or ‘of noble birth.’ It carries an old-world charm with a regal flair.

2. Agathe

A top-tier example of a classic and traditional name, Agathe means ‘good’ or ‘kind.’ The name feels deeply grounded and

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3. Anneliese

A graceful combination of Anna and Liese, Anneliese means ‘graceful’ or ‘God is my oath.’ This German-favourite name sounds melodic and gives off retro vibes.

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4. Brunhilde

A bold, warrior-like name, Brunhilde means ‘armoured battle maiden.’ It’s fierce, legendary, and full of heroic spirit.

5. Elke

A charming, old-world name meaning ‘noble’ or ‘of noble birth.’ Elke feels both elegant and spirited—simple but never plain

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6. Freya

Rooted in Nordic culture, Freya means ‘a noble woman’. It symbolises love and beauty and has a powerful, goddess-like aura.

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7. Frieda

Meaning ‘peaceful ruler,’ Frieda is soft yet strong. It carries a vintage charm that feels sweet and sturdy at once.

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8. Gertrud

An old soul of a name, Gertrud means ‘spear of strength.’ It’s strong, solid, and speaks to resilience across generations.

9. Gisela

Gisela means ‘pledge’ or ‘hostage,’ but don’t let that fool you—it’s graceful and refined, with a quiet confidence.

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10. Stella

Meaning ‘the star of the sea’.

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More Common and Popular German Baby Girl Names

For more inspiration, try these common and popular German baby names for girls.

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Name Meaning
Hedwig Battling female warrior
Hildegard Battle-guardian
Karoline Free woman
Liselotte God is my oath, a free woman
Magdalena High tower
Ottilie Wealth
Rike Peaceful ruler
Thekla Divine fame
Wibke Bright battle
Wilhelmina Resolute protector

Cute German Baby Girl Names

Want a name that accentuates the cuteness of your adorable daughter? We’ve got you!

1. Adelinde

Adelinde means ‘gentle serpent’ or ‘noble and soft.’ If you are looking for a name that has an old-fashioned charm, then this noble name would be perfect for you.

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2. Agnes

Elegant and noble, Agnes means ‘pure’ or ‘holy.’ The name exudes subtle confidence and sounds melodic.

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3. Bertha

Meaning ‘bright one’ or ‘famous,’ Bertha exudes a vintage feel.

4. Bruna

Earthy and bold, Bruna means ‘brown’ or ‘dark-haired.’ The name often evokes strength and depth.

5. Dorothea

Meaning ‘gift of God.’ Dorothea is an evergreen and refined name with a lyrical elegance. The name will be perfect for your little one if you are looking for a regal name.

6. Edith

Edith is a classic, quintessential name meaning ‘rich in war.’ Although the name is old-school, it effortlessly balances strength with grace.

7. Florentia

Florentia is a gorgeous baby girl’s name with Latin roots. The meaning of the name is ‘blooming,’ and it carries a natural beauty.

8. Helga

Helga means ‘holy’ or ‘blessed.’ It’s powerful and no-nonsense, often associated with someone who commands respect.

9. Hilda

With roots in battle and strength, Hilda means ‘battle woman.’ This name is sure to instil in your little girl confidence and courage to take on new challenges.

10. Irma

The name has a connection with the term for complete and universal. It is also the name Irmine or Ermine, the German Goddess of War.

More Cute German Names for Girls

Don’t worry if you still haven’t decided. Here are more cute-sy name inspos:

Name Meaning
Ingebord The help of Ing (a Germanic god)
Johanna God is gracious
Kathe Pure
Liesel God is my oath (diminutive of Elizabeth)
Meta Pearl
Petra Rock
Ruth Friend
Sofie Wisdom
Trude Strength of a spear
Ursula Little bear

Cool German Names for Girls

Are you in search of a German name that carries a unique meaning? Or maybe you think German girl names are especially stylish. Regardless, get ready to check out some trendy choices for your little fashionista!

1. Annalie

A fresh and modern twist on classic names, Annalie combines ‘grace’ and ‘light.’ It feels sunny and spirited.

2. Aalis/Alice

Meaning “noble,” Alice is simple yet endlessly elegant. It never goes out of style and fits any era. The name means noble. The Estonians use Aadelheide, the Hebrews Adabelle, and the Africans use it to name the oldest girl baby.

3. Adela/Adele

These mean “noble” and carry a soft, lyrical charm. Adele especially feels modern and musical while rooted in tradition. These names are again typically German variations and sound different and stylish too. Think of Adele, the legendary singer. Try variations like Adette, Adeline, or even Aderyn, the kind and lovely noble bird.

4. Amalia

A graceful name meaning “work” or “industrious,” Amalia has a delicate strength to it—soft, but never fragile.

5. Carina

Carina means ‘beloved’ or ‘dear one.’ It exudes softness, femininity, and romantic sweetness.

6. Carolin

A quintessential and graceful name, Carolin means ‘free woman.’ It balances elegance with sheer confidence.

7. Charlotte

Charlotte means “free woman” and has royal flair. It’s chic, timeless, and effortlessly elegant.

8. Cora

Short and chic, Cora had the potential to top the charts. Meaning ‘maiden’ or ‘heart,’ it feels ancient and effortlessly stylish.

9. Diana

Stemming from Roman mythology, Diana means ‘divine’ or ‘heavenly.’ It balances elegance and regal with quiet independence.

10. Nyx

Lord Krishna is a person who is full of charm and grace.

More Cool German Girl Names

Here are some more cool-sy monikers for your kiddo!

Name Meaning
Evelin Desired
Felizitas Happiness
Frauke Little lady
Gerta Spear of strength
Helene Torch, shining light
Isabell God is my oath
Katinka Pure
Larissa Citadel
Mariele Beloved
Senta To grow
Sibylle Prophetess

Pretty and Beautiful German Names for Girls

A lovely name plays a crucial role in highlighting your daughter and gives an edge to their personality. Check out these amazingly beautiful German names with wonderful meanings.

1. Ada

Short and strong, Ada means “noble.” It’s quietly elegant and perfectly balanced between vintage and modern.

2. Amalie

A cousin of Amalia, Amalie also means “hardworking.” It feels a touch more whimsical, perfect for someone bright and creative.

3. Anina

Anina is a sweet and melodic name, often seen as a variant of Anna. It has a gentle, radiant quality that feels light-hearted.

4. Bettina

A friendly, melodic name, Bettina is a diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning “pledged to God.” It feels warm, approachable, and classic.

5. Bianka

A variant of Bianca, it means “white” or “pure.” Bianka with a “k” gives it a bold, European flair.

6. Catrin

A German variant of Catherine, meaning “pure.” Catrin feels crisp and classic, with a fresh twist.

7. Dita

Short for Edith or Marguerite, Dita is spunky and sharp. It has a vintage spark that feels artsy and bold.

8. Elsa

Meaning “pledged to God,” Elsa is graceful and beloved, especially since her revival in pop culture. Cool, elegant, and heartfelt, this name is also used in the Disney film Frozen.

9. Emmi

A diminutive of Emma or Emily, Emmi means “universal.” It’s cute, bright, and carries a friendly warmth.

10. GretaMargareteGretchen

The name was inspired by and means ‘pearl’. Remember the legendary Greta Garbo?

More Pretty and Beautiful German Girl Names

If the above names tickled your fancy, here are some name inspirations for you:

Name Meaning
Anuschka Favour, grace
Erna Earnest
Gabi God is my strength
Gerda Strong spear
Ilse God is my oath (diminutive of Elisabeth)
Inga Ancestor
Ingrid Ing (a Norse god) is beautiful
Lotte Famous warrior
Mina Love
Oda Wealth, fortune

Strong and Powerful German Names for Girls

Your little girl could be a remarkable presence, and if so, she’ll require a name that accentuates her power. Check out these strong German names for girls with significant meanings:

1. Alma

A soulful name meaning “nurturing” or “kind.” Alma feels soft and wise, like someone with a gentle strength.

2. Astrid

With Norse roots meaning “divinely beautiful,” Astrid is striking, smart, and a little bit fierce—a name with star power.

3. Bathilda

An old Germanic name meaning “battle woman.” It’s rare, mighty, and packed with warrior spirit.

4. Beate

Meaning “blessed,” Beate (pronounced beh-AH-teh) is lyrical and lovely, with a spiritual and peaceful air.

5. Brigitte

Brigitte is the German form of Bridget, meaning “strength” or “exalted one.” It’s bold, feminine, and effortlessly chic.

6. Cordula

An uncommon gem, Cordula means “little heart.” It’s quirky, poetic, and totally endearing.

7. Else

A short form of Elisabeth, Else is simple, elegant, and quietly strong. Think of it as graceful with a hint of edge.

8. Jutte

A rare German name, Jutte feels gentle and grounded. It’s a calm, nature-evoking name that’s full of old-world charm.

9. Karla

Karla means “free woman” or “strong.” It’s tough, stylish, and full of quiet power.

10. Millicent/Millie

This spin on the old is never out of fashion, and the nickname comes in a neat package.

More Strong and Powerful German Baby Girl Names

Still searching? Try these!

Name Meaning
Maud Mighty in battle
Monika Advisor
Nora Honour, esteem
Regina Queen
Renate Born again
Roswitha Fame, Strong
Sabine Woman of the Sabines
Verena Integrity, truth
Xenia Hospitality
Yvonne Yew tree

Traditional and Old-Fashioned German Girl Names

Traditional names never go out of style. If you are looking for something evergreen or retro, then these traditional and old-fashioned German names for girls will be the right inspiration for you.

1. Aloisia

The name means ‘famous fighter’.

2. Angelika

Angelika is a classic example of the Germanification of the name Angelica. It is quite popular in Poland and Hungary as well. The meaning of the name is ‘angelic.’

3. Annett

With roots in French, Annette is stylish and sassy. The meaning of the name is ‘favour’ or ‘grace.’

4. Augusta

This quintessential German feminine version of Augustus means ‘great’ or ‘vulnerable.’ The second daughter of King George III, a member of the German House of Hanover, was given this name.

5. Babette

Babette is a cooler version of the old-fashioned Barbara and also has French origins. The meaning of the name is ‘foreign woman’ or ‘stranger.’

6. Barbel

Barbel is a cute and classic name for girls and comes from the German name Barbara. It means ‘stranger’ or ‘foreign.’

7. Beatrix

Beatrix sounds playful and funky with a vintage charm. This Latin-origin name means ‘blessed one’ and ‘voyager.’

8. Cäcilia

Cäcilia is a German version of the name Cecilia. If you are looking for a unique name with an easy reference, then this moniker could be fantastic for your kiddo. It means ‘blind.’

9. Heidi

Typically, traditional and popular in the Alpine regions, it means the one with noble birth. Like Heidi Klum, who is never out of style!

10. Katja

Go with this name if you want something as gorgeous as Kate with an unusual ring to it. Katyusha and Katya put a Russian spin on it.

More Traditional and Old-Fashioned German Names for Girls

Finding the perfect traditional can sometimes take time. Here are some more Old German girl names to help you decide better.

Name Meaning
Constanze Constant
Dietlinde Ruler of the people
Edelgard Noble house
Eike Blade, brave
Elfriede Elf strength
Fritzi Peaceful ruler
Gretel Pearl
Hertha The Germanic goddess of fertility
Isolde Ice battle
Raphaela God heals
Saskia A Saxon

Even More German Names for Girls

Yeah, yeah, we get it. Name selection for your precious little daughter isn’t that easy. This is why we have some more German names A-Z for you!

Name Meaning
Adalaide/ Adelaide There are many variations of the term noble. Adahila adds a flower’s name to it, while Adalee is a noble wood, and Adaleigh means full of honour. Try Della, Adalia, Adali, Adalina, Adalicia, Adalie, Adalyn and such spellings.
Adolfa The feminine version of the name Adolf, the noble wolf. Variation is Adolpha or Adolphina. Also, popular names on strength are Aebba and Aelf, the mystical nymph.
Adriane  Meaning in Latin, a dark woman from Hadria near the Adriatic Sea. Popular is also Agatha, the Greek name for good and benevolent.
Alviria The name has variations like Ria, Vera, Ally and means ‘the fair one’.
Andrea The name means ‘strong’ and ‘brave’.
Bernadette It means ‘brave bear’ or ‘strong’.
Berta Meaning a glorious noble ruler. Bertha, Berti, Bertina, and Alberta are alliterations of the name.
Bettie/Betty This name means consecrated to the Lord and has many variations like Bettina, Beth, Betsy, Bessy and Bethany. Also used as a nickname for Elizabeth or the one who brings satisfaction and glory, who can also be called Lissie, Lisbeth and Lisa in Germany.
Billie/ Billy The unisex name for ‘justice’, ‘protection’, and ‘will power’.
Bindy A shortened version of Belinda, this name means ‘a pretty snake’.
Birgit Bright and glorious.
Bluma In German, you mean ‘a flower blooms’.
Calia The name means ‘most fair and beautiful’.
Cara Used as an endearment for a dear one or beloved.
Carie/ Caree/Cary Means ‘born free-willed’. Germans also use Carlotta, who has a man’s strength, Carleigh for the free-spirited, and Caro to denote the strength of will.
Carol Joyful song
Caroline Free woman
Carolyn Meaning based on a hymn has variations like Carry, Carrie, Carol and Caroline.
Chay Meaning ‘a fairytale’. Sounds exotic and different!
Cheryl From the cherry fruit.
Chloris The name of the Spring Goddess.
Chole The name brings victory and achievement in all conquests.
Christina Follower of Christ
Clarissa Meaning ‘bright and smart’, the name can also be shortened to Clara.
Claudia Enclosure
Dew/ Due ‘Wolf power’, ‘morning dew’ can be the two meanings for this name.
Eagle The unisex name denotes nobility, strength, and foresight and is among the names used for the educated girl. A variant is Edelmar or Edelmann.
Eda The name bestows wealth and happiness on one so named and is stylishly unique.
Edeltraud The Germanic name means ‘noble strength’.
Eevonne Named after the coniferous tree with red fruits, and also spelt Yvonne.
Elisabeth My God is an oath.
Ellsa The name means ‘the exalted one on whom God has shown favour’.
Elma  If your princess is as cherubic as the apple, then this name is for her.
Emery Power
Emmeline Hardworking and industrious
Eva Life
Evi/ Eve  The mother figure Eve has this interesting German variation, which means full of life. Mila and Isla, too, are trending with the same simplicity and meaning.
Fenja/ Fenya The name means peace, calmness, safety and protection to the bearer. Firuz is also a good name for the unvanquished goddess of your life.
Gracia/ Gratia Meaning ‘full of grace’ adds a biblical touch to the name. Grace in English versions also means the same.
Hanna Grace
Hannelore God is gracious
Haydn/ Hayden

This name is modern and yet has been used for ages as a unisex name suitable and tweakable to suit all cultures and languages in Europe and the West.

Helen/Ellen Means ‘the bright star’ and has variations like Elina, Ailina, Eleonore or Elena.
Ilina The name translates into a predominantly Christian and Jewish name meaning ‘My Lord is Yahweh’. Not to be mixed with Ellina, which means the shining one or the Universe, Elli, who is devout and kind, or Ellie, the light of guidance.
Irmgard This is the name of the German goddess of War.
Ivana/ Ivara This choice is elegant and exotic, while being a typical name in Germany, the combined Russia of older times and Europe in general.
Juliane/ Juliana/ Julie The name means ‘youthful’ in German and is the youthful month of July too, when the flowers are in full bloom.
Lorelei This name is for the temptress full of grace and allure, and is very popular even with the alliteration of Lorelai, making it sound quaint, Chinese and exotic.
Maria The name is taken from Mary, or the wished-for and long-awaited child. Miriam and Marie are variations of this.
Maude Traditional, strong and old-fashioned, it is for one unique baby girl you bless with might in battles and war.
Maxi Go gender-neutral with the short name of Maximilian, a name used by Popes, Kings and noblemen.
Nadia The meaning of this name is one who will not give up or remain unvanquished.
Nadine The bearer forms relationships based on trust.
Nina The name means ‘gift of God’ and can also be spelt Neena.
Sigfrieda Protector of victory; can also be spelt Freeda, Frieda and Sigfreida.
Stark The German word for ‘strong’. The unisexual name can also be used for a boy.
Steffi The name means ‘the crowned one’. Stefanie, Stefani or such modifications can be made.
Susaane The name is from the lily flower. Susan, Suzanne, and Suzzana can also be derived from it.
Tamina The twin of another
Tanya The fairy princess is named Tanya.
Terry The name means ‘born in late summer’.
Thea The name means ‘a gift of God’.
Theresa Stemming from the word harvester can also be spelt Therese.
Tiegra The name for a tigress.
Tilly Perhaps a twist on shortening Matilda, it signifies might in the battles of life. You can even use Matty or Tilda if you wish.
Winola This means a friend who is both witty and charming to the core.

FAQ

1. Do German girl names tell more about a personality?

Often, you can tell the profession of the family from the surname. And the first name means you can also guess the kind of person she is. Here are some names that we bet you did not know were German names for a little girl. Clotilda means famous in battle, Angela, Angelika, Angelica all meaning angel-like, Cleta meaning the renowned woman, Georgia or the feminine form of George meaning farmer, Giselle or Gisella meaning a pledge, Bern or bear-spawning names like Bernadette, Bernadine, Harriet or the ruler of the home, Hilde or Hilda the noble one, Clay or mortal, Geneva or of the female race with names spelt Genevieve, Genny, Jenny, Ava or a beautiful bird, Annamarie or of bitter grace, Alison and Ethel meaning ‘of noble character’, Eryka or Erica the powerful and everlasting in battles, Emily and Amelia the eager ones, or Alysha the noblewoman also spelt Alicia, and Alisha.

Following the very Australian and Anglo-Saxon way of naming babies, German names generally have a first name, middle name and the family name given at the time of birth or baptism in a church. Need a name with mythological or historical Germanic roots like Elizabeth, Waldtraut and Manuela? We hope you found your beautiful baby girl’s name here. We have tried to cover the most popular, pretty, traditional and old ones too. Your baby deserves the best, and most often, old is gold, especially in German girl names. Enjoy searching for your favourite name from our list!

Also Read:

French Girl Names
Russian Names for Girl
Portuguese Girl Names with Meaning
Scandinavian Girl Names & Their Meanings
Brazilian Names for Girls & Their Meanings

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About the Author
Gauri Ratnam

Gauri Ratnam completed her Masters in English Literature from the University of Pune. She began her journey as a German translator soon after completing her graduation, but later moved on to pursue her passion for writing. Having written for both digital and print media in a varied range of industries, she has the ability to write relatable and well-researched content, benefical for anyone seeking advice or direction.

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