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

23 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With C

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.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

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.

Read full bio of Siddharth Kesiraju

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.

Read full bio of Praggya Joshi

Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Charli	Girl	One with a free spirit
Coen	Boy	Brave counsel; Advice
Charlize	Girl	Feminine form of Charles; Free woman
Cai	Boy	People's victory; Hard spear; Horn; To rejoice
Charleston	Boy	Son of Charles
Charly	Boy	Free man; Army
Charolette	Girl	Free woman
Cort	Boy	Brave counsel; From the court
Corra	Girl	Brave counsel; Maiden
Curt	Boy	Brave counsel; Courteous

Corrado	Boy	Brave counsel
Charlynn	Girl	Free man; Army
Chas	Boy	A free man
Charlotta	Girl	The one who is born free
Charline	Girl	The one who is born free
Chriselda	Girl	Grey battle, Strong; Powerful; Vigorous; Tough
Ciya	Unisex	Mountain; Victory; White moonlight; Jasmine; Goddess Sita
Criselda	Girl	Grey battle; Dark battle; Bearing Christ
Charlayne	Girl	A free, strong person
Charley	Unisex	Free man; Army

Charlie	Unisex	Free man; Army
Charlot	Unisex	Free man; Army
Charlyn	Boy	Free man; Army

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

Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With C 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 C.

Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With C(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.