German Names that Start With I

Ivo is an unusual, catchy name with the energetic impact of all names ending in 'o'. Hardly heard in the U.S., it is used a bit more frequently in England, as is the related Ivor, a favorite of such novelists as Evelyn Waugh and P.G. Wodehouse. Ivo is currently most popular in the Netherlands.

Many vowel names stylish a century ago are coming back, and Ida seems like a possible, logical successor to Ada and Ava.

Isa is a name unto itself as both a Persian name meaning "strong-willed" and as Germanic one derived from the element is meaning "ice". It can also be a short form of Isabel, Isabella, Isadora, Louisa, and similar. Currently popular in Brazil and The Netherlands, it has seen some increased use in the US in recent years, perhaps owing to the popularity of other short names like Ava, Mia, and Isla.

Ilsa is remembered as the radiant but tragic heroine of "Casablanca," and it's having something of a European resurgence.

A Top 200 choice in the US from the late 1880s to the early 1930s, Irma has nevertheless fallen out of favor with modern parents, and doesn't look set for the sort of comeback that some of her vintage sisters have enjoyed in recent years. The devastating hurricane which hit the Caribbean Islands and the south-east coast of the US in 2017 has no doubt dealt its chances of revival a further blow.

Similar to Ivana but less personality-driven.

An undiscovered surname possibility with upscale overtones, could be enlivened with nickname Ingo.

An unusual name heard in contemporary Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, it's the male version of the more familiar Inga. It's the name of a German god, and attached to German-born soap star Ingo Rademacher--the father of sons named Peanut and Pohaku Zen.

Isidore and variants are remarkably underused and ripe for revival, a la Theodore and company.

In the US, Emmanuel has held steady around the Top 200 for a quarter century now, but this variation has dropped off the Top 1000 for three of the past seven years. It was Number 974 in 2016.

Isobella is a feminine name that represents a beautiful variation of Isabella, which itself derives from Elizabeth. With Hebrew origins, the name ultimately means 'pledged to God' or 'God is my oath.' The spelling with 'o' instead of 'a' gives the name a distinctive touch while maintaining its elegant, timeless appeal. Isobella gained popularity in English-speaking countries primarily in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, part of the trend favoring elaborate, romantic girls' names. While less common than Isabella, which saw tremendous popularity in the 2000s, Isobella offers a slight uniqueness while still carrying the same classic heritage. The name has a melodious quality with its four syllables and conveys a sense of grace and femininity.

Ignacius is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Ignatius, derived from the Roman family name Egnatius, possibly of Etruscan origin. The name gained prominence through Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order, and Saint Ignatius of Antioch, an early Christian martyr. While the standard spelling Ignatius is more common, Ignacius offers a slight variation that maintains the name's dignified historical roots while softening its appearance slightly. The name carries connotations of fiery devotion—partly due to the folk etymology connecting it to the Latin word ignis meaning "fire." Though uncommon in contemporary use, Ignacius possesses a strong, classical quality with intellectual and religious associations that appeal to parents seeking a distinguished name with historical depth.

Isobelle represents an elegant variation of the classic name Isabel or Isabella, featuring the distinctive French-influenced spelling. This feminine name has deep historical roots, ultimately deriving from the Hebrew name Elizabeth, meaning 'devoted to God.' The addition of the final 'le' gives Isobelle a particularly graceful, sophisticated quality. While less common than Isabel or Isabella, this spelling has gained some popularity among parents seeking a slightly more distinctive version of the beloved classic. Isobelle carries the same regal associations as its variants, having been borne by numerous queens and nobility throughout European history. The name combines timeless appeal with a touch of uniqueness in its presentation.

Natz recommended.

While Ilise is unusual, the E version is more attractive.

Ignate is an uncommon masculine name that likely derives from Latin roots, possibly related to 'Ignatius,' which comes from the Latin word 'ignis' meaning 'fire.' This connection gives the name associations with warmth, passion, and energy. Ignate has a strong, distinctive sound with its clear consonants and simple pronunciation. While not widely used in mainstream Western naming traditions, it carries a contemporary feel with classical undertones. The name's rarity offers parents an opportunity to bestow a distinctive identity that sounds familiar enough to pronounce but unique enough to stand out. Ignate might appeal particularly to those looking for a name with historical roots but a modern sensibility.