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

27 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With J

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
Joselyn	Girl	Member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous
Joslyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; From the land of flowing water; Joyful
Josselyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful
Josslyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful
Joseline	Girl	Member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous
Joselin	Girl	Member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous
Joss	Boy	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful; He will add
Joycelyn	Girl	Lord; Rejoice; Joyful; A member of the Gauts tribe
Jep	Unisex	Peace; Foreigner; Territory
Josalyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous

Joffrey	Boy	Peace of a stranger; Peaceful Geat; Peaceful territory
Joslin	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Lord; Joyful
Jozlyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful
Jezelle	Unisex	Hostage; Pledge
Joscelyn	Girl	Member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous
Jarreau	Unisex	Spear
Joscelin	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyous
Jeselle	Girl	Hostage; Pledge
Josilyn	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful
Juelle	Unisex	Payment; Tribute; Compensation

Josalina	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe
Josline	Girl	A member of the Gauts tribe; Joyful
Jeffries	Boy	Foreign territory
Jelle	Boy	Payment; Tribute; Compensation; Money; Value; Festival of sacrifice
Jerard	Boy	Spear; Hard; Form; Brave; Hardy
Jelke	Boy	Frisian form of Julius; Dedicated to Jupiter
Jazel	Unisex	Hostage; Pledge

Infographic: Attractive Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With J

Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With J are significant and exquisite. They carry an inherent sense of charm that's almost impossible to ignore. Our infographic below shares several options that fit diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Explore the list and pick a name that resonates with you. Remember, your baby's name is integral to their identity, so choose a name that best complements their personality.

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