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

41 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With E

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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
Everett	Boy	Brave boar
Everette	Boy	Brave boar
Ervin	Boy	Army friend; Boar friend
Everardo	Boy	Brave boar
Erwin	Boy	Army friend; Boar friend
Eda	Girl	Well mannered; Fortunate battle; Noble; Rich friend; War
Everet	Boy	Brave boar
Edel	Boy	Pale noble woman; Noble; Delicate; Noble fame
Emmah	Girl	Universal; Whole; Great
Emrey	Unisex	Home strength; Industrious leader; To love; Desire; To be quiet

Evert	Boy	Brave boar
Elda	Girl	Battle; Fire
Edda	Girl	War; Great-grandmother; Noble
Elmo	Boy	Beloved; Helmet; Protection
Eberardo	Boy	Brave boar
Egon	Boy	Sword's edge; Blade
Ermin	Boy	Universal; Army man
Ebert	Boy	Bright army; Brave boar
Eme	Unisex	Unceasing; Vigorous; Brave; Beloved; Famous blade; Whole; Great
Ernesha	Girl	Determined; Serious

Edelle	Girl	Noble
Earnestine	Girl	Serious; Earnest
Etelvina	Girl	Noble friend
Elica	Girl	Fir tree; Spruce; Noble
Eburhard	Boy	One who is strong as a wild boar
Edelia	Girl	Noble
Edina	Boy	Noble; Religion; Pleasure
Edine	Girl	Noble
Edrich	Boy	Rich ruler; Powerful
Edwige	Girl	War; Battle; Combat

Elimar	Boy	Famous and noble; Famous blade
Ellette	Girl	Little girl; Other; Foreign; Truth
Elmyra	Girl	Noble and famous
Ermine	Girl	Whole; Great; Army man
Eske	Boy	God's spear
Eiler	Boy	Firm edge; Hard blade
Essen	Unisex	Ash tree
Everline	Unisex	Brave boar
Eida	Unisex	Work; Labor
Edilia	Girl	Noble

Elisaria	Unisex	My God is an oath: Host; Army

Infographic: Unique Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With E

Finding a baby name for your little one can be exciting and challenging. Our infographic below shares the Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With E that are attractive, unique, and versatile. Explore the list to find a name that best reflects your child's hopes, aspirations, and dreams. Share the infographic with fellow parents seeking distinct baby name options for their children.

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