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

39 Old German Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With O

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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
Odette	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage
Oberon	Boy	Elf ruler; King of elves; Royal bear
Odelia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; I will thank Yahweh
Obie	Boy	God's servant; Worshipping; Elf ruler
Odalis	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage
Odis	Boy	Wealth; Fortune
Othello	Boy	Wealth
Otilia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Odilia	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage
Oberyn	Boy	Elf ruler

Otilio	Boy	Heritage; Wealth
Ouida	Girl	Famous warrior
Ottilia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Odile	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage
Odeth	Unisex	Heritage; Wealth
Otylia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Odie	Boy	Woad hill; Wealthy; Song
Otto	Boy	Fortune; Prosperity; Glorious wealth
Oates	Boy	Wealth; Fortune; Prosperity
Oberron	Boy	Elf king; Ruler of the elves

Oda	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Praise God
Odalys	Boy	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune; Chambermaid; Concubine
Ode	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Prosperity; Lyric poem
Odella	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune; Woad hill
Odelle	Girl	Woad hill; Heritage; Wealth; Fortune; Song
Odetta	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Odo	Boy	Possessor of wealth; Fortunate
Orley	Boy	Famous land; Famous and brave
Orwin	Boy	Army friend; Boar friend
Osgar	Boy	God's spear

Otelia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Otha	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Army warrior;
Othelia	Girl	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Otta	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage; Eighth-born
Ottie	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage
Ottoline	Boy	Heritage; Wealth; Fortune
Ody	Unisex	Wealth; Fortune
Othella	Unisex	Prosperous; Wealthy
Ory	Unisex	My light; Ruler's heritage

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

If you seek exquisite baby names that are creative, culturally significant, and impactful, check out our infographic below. It features some charming

that would fit diverse preferences. Each name on the list is unique and deeply meaningful. Explore them to find a name that celebrates your child's individuality and reflects your dreams and aspirations for them.

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