How are Old German names different from modern German names?

Old and modern German names differ significantly in their origins, meanings, and usage. Many Old German names have roots in ancient Germanic tribes, mythology, and medieval history. They often reflect qualities valued in those times, such as bravery, strength, and nobility. For instance, Freodhoric, meaning ‘peaceful ruler,’ or Gesa, meaning ‘strength.’ Old German names frequently consist of compound elements, or; for example, the name Adalbert combines adal, meaning ‘noble’ and berht,’ meaning ‘bright or famous.’ Modern names tend to be simpler and less descriptive. They often drop the compound structure in favor of shorter, easier-to-pronounce names. Global naming trends influence modern German names. Names like Luca and Mia have become popular, reflecting broader European and international influences.

Can Old German names be used as middle names?

Old German names can be used as middle names, adding a touch of historical and cultural depth. For instance, names like Adalbert, meaning ‘noble and bright,’ or Gertrude, meaning ‘spear of strength,’ can complement modern first names beautifully. Combining a contemporary first name like Emily with an Old German middle name such as Adelheid, which means ‘noble kind,’ creates a unique and meaningful full name.

Who are some famous historical figures with Old German names?

Several famous historical figures bore Old German names, reflecting their heritage and living times. For example, Adalbert refers to Adalbert of Prague, a tenth-century bishop and martyr. Similarly, the Old Germanic name Hildegard refers to Hildegard of Bingen, a 12th-century abbess, writer, composer, and mystic.

Home • Baby Names

37 Old German Baby Names with Meanings Bright

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Gilbert	Boy	Bright pledge
Gilberto	Boy	Bright pledge
Gable	Boy	God is my strength; A triangular-shaped hill; God is bright
Wilbert	Boy	Bright will or desire
Norbert	Boy	Bright North; Northern brightness
Filberto	Boy	Highly bright
Dagoberto	Boy	One born on a bright day
Birdy	Girl	Bright; Bringer of victory
Hobie	Unisex	Bright heart or mind
Andel	Unisex	Grace; Bright zeal; Angel

Beltran	Boy	Bright Raven; Bright rim of a shield
Wilburn	Boy	Bright; Willful; Stream
Gibbs	Boy	Bright pledge
Hobbes	Unisex	Bright fame
Ebert	Boy	Bright army; Brave boar
Umberto	Boy	Bright bear cub
Norrie	Unisex	From the North; Bright; Honor
Abela	Girl	Breath; Vapor; Strength; Fortitude; Noble; Bright
Bretta	Girl	Bright; Glorious sound
Beta	Girl	My God is an oath; Blessed; Bright

Bartram	Boy	Glorious Raven; Bright Raven
Blanco	Boy	Blond; Fair; White; Bright; Shining; Beautiful
Filberta	Girl	An immensely bright personality
Gib	Boy	Bright pledge
Gibbons	Boy	Son of Gilbert; Bright pledge
Gibby	Boy	Son of Gilbert; Son of Gib; Bright pledge
Gilah	Girl	Joy; Happiness; Young goat; Bright pledge
Hubbard	Boy	Bright heart; Shining intellect
Hubertus	Boy	Bright heart; Shining intellect
Hubie	Boy	Bright heart; Shining intellect

Humbert	Boy	Bright bear cub
Lem	Boy	For God; Bright land
Robbins	Boy	Bright fame
Robena	Girl	Bright fame
Roberte	Girl	Bright fame
Roby	Boy	Bright fame
Gesa	Girl	Spear; Strength; Power; Bright; Shining

Infographic: Splendid Old German Baby Names with Meanings Bright

Your baby deserves a name that exemplifies how brilliant they are. If you’re stuck in your journey looking for a unique name that leaves a lasting impression, we are here to help. We have compiled a list of some Old German Baby Names with Meanings Bright, so dive in and discover a meaningful yet distinctive name, perfect for your little one. Share the infographic with other new parents if you find it helpful!

Old German Baby Names with Meanings Bright(infographic)

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.