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

28 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With B

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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
Bruin	Boy	A person with brown hair or skin; The brown; Brown bear; Armor
Bruna	Girl	Armor; Protection; Polished
Brunilda	Girl	Armor; Battle protection
Baldwin	Boy	Bold and brave friend
Birdy	Girl	Bright; Bringer of victory
Berny	Boy	Brave bear
Benard	Boy	Brave bear
Beltran	Boy	Bright Raven; Bright rim of a shield
Berend	Boy	Brave bear
Bernita	Girl	Brave bear

Bena	Girl	Pheasant; Son; Wise; Bear; Blessed; Kind
Bretta	Girl	Bright; Glorious sound
Brantlie	Girl	Fire
Belynda	Girl	Beautiful and gentle
Beta	Girl	My God is an oath; Blessed; Bright
Bank	Boy	A title of Hungarian nobility; Financial institution; Bench
Banks	Unisex	One who lives at the edge of a river or hillside; Bench; Table
Bartram	Boy	Glorious Raven; Bright Raven
Blanchard	Boy	White and brave; White and hardy
Blanco	Boy	Blond; Fair; White; Bright; Shining; Beautiful

Bodo	Boy	Command or order
Boheme	Girl	Home
Boudewijn	Boy	Bold friend
Brunhilde	Girl	Battle armor; Protection in battle
Brunhilda	Girl	Battle armor; Battle protection
Bean	Unisex	Bean
Brynhildr	Girl	Armor or protective battle
Bodevan	Unisex	Bold friend

Infographic: Exquisite Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With B

Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With B blend diverse traditions with rich history and cultural influences. Whether you seek a classic name or one infused with contemporary flair, our infographic below has several options that fit most preferences. Explore them to find a perfect name for your precious child. If you find our infographic useful, share it with your fellow parents to introduce them to the world of Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With B.

Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With B(infographic)

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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.