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

68 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With G

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Garrett	Boy	Spear; Little spear; Strength of the spear; Warrior
Gilbert	Boy	Bright pledge
Gilberto	Boy	Bright pledge
Gerard	Boy	Brave spear
Gisselle	Girl	Pledge; Hostage
Gisele	Girl	Pledge; Hostage
Garett	Unisex	Power of the spear
Garret	Boy	Spear; Power of spear; Warrior; Strong spear
Garry	Boy	Spear; Spear king; Mighty
Gisela	Girl	Pledge

Gertrude	Girl	Spear of strength
Gisella	Girl	Pledge; Hostage
Gable	Boy	God is my strength; A triangular-shaped hill; God is bright
Gerrit	Boy	One who holds a spear; Brave; Hard
Godfrey	Boy	Peace of God
Garrie	Boy	Spear
Garion	Boy	Guardian; Spear
Gerrie	Girl	Brave spear
Gehrig	Boy	Spear
Geofrey	Boy	God's peace

Gilda	Girl	Sacrifice; Tribute; Compensation; Payment
Gerek	Boy	Spear ruler
Garet	Boy	Spear power; Brave spear
Garnett	Boy	Hinge; Protection; Precious red gemstone
Girard	Boy	Brave with the spear; Hard
Gerhardt	Boy	One who carries a spear; A brave person
Galiana	Girl	Supreme; Calm; Healer
Garit	Boy	Brave spear
Garson	Boy	From the town of Courson; Boy; Hardy spear
Garey	Boy	Spear

Gerrell	Boy	Spear ruler
Garred	Boy	Firm spear
Gerritt	Boy	Brave spear
Gerhard	Boy	Spear; Brave; Hardy
Garnet	Boy	A semi-precious red jewel; Cautious; Protection
Gilma	Girl	Will; Desire; Protection; Helmet
Gerrard	Boy	One who holds a spear; Brave; Hard
Goshen	Unisex	Land of plenty and blessings; God's servant
Gared	Boy	Brave spear
Geoffery	Boy	God's peace

Gibbs	Boy	Bright pledge
Garritt	Boy	Brave spear
Gotti	Unisex	God-like
Geoffry	Boy	God's peace
Gery	Boy	Spear guard
Gerianne	Girl	Spear ruler
Grissel	Girl	Dark battle; Grey battle-maid
Gea	Girl	Earth; Pearl; Spear of strength
Gertie	Girl	Spear of strength
Gari	Girl	Wheat; Spear; Speared people

Gizela	Girl	Pledge; Oath; Hostage
Garin	Boy	Guard; Willingly; Gladly; Protection; Shelter
Garnier	Boy	Cautious army
Ged	Boy	Brave spear
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
Gisa	Girl	Hostage; Pledge
Guia	Girl	Wood; Earth; Will helmet

Grimhilde	Girl	Masked battle
Gesa	Girl	Spear; Strength; Power; Bright; Shining
Gesche	Girl	Frisian form of Gertrude; Spear; Strength; Power
Gesina	Girl	Frisian form of Gertrude; Spear; Strength; Power
Gwenael	Boy	White, fair or generous
Gissel	Unisex	Pledge; Promise; Hostage
Gertha	Unisex	Brave spear
Getty	Unisex	Spear of strength

Infographic: Meaningful Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With G

If you are ready to embark on the journey to find a meaningful name for your child, check out our infographic below. It shares a list of Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With G that are elegant and distinct. These options are selected from diverse cultures and languages, offering you the best baby name options worldwide. Scroll through the list to find a suitable name based on your preference and liking.

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