German Names

The usual form of Eleonara is Eleanora, with each syllable pronounced, but transposing, adding, or subtracting a vowel or syllable here or there works fine and adds to the international, feminine spin on a solid name.

With the growing popularity for girls of such names as Aubrey and Audrey, Auberon feels like a fresh and viable option.

Earthbound surname that few would make as first choice.

Rebekka is a more creative spelling -- at least in some people's opinion -- of the biblical favorite Rebecca. Rebekka is also the usual German version. The Rebekkah spelling was commonly used in Early America.

Most famous as the name of King Pepin the Short, this choice might feel somewhat belittling. The even-shorter form is Pippin, a name adopted for musical theater, and the Dutch form Pepijn is in that country's Top 100.

Hip short form of Bernard, also Swiss place-name.

One you might like for its cozy meaning, but there is that Pied Piper rat connection.

Nein.

Futuristic, in a 1930s kind of way.

The name of a monk who is the patron saint of blacksmiths -- not a twentieth-century occupation or baby name.

This name is related to Derek and Dietrich, either of which would be preferable.

All anyone will think of is the Fonz.

A preppy surname of hidden German origin that would fit right in with currently trendy s-ending boy names like Brooks.