Herman

What does the baby name Herman mean? Learn about what Herman means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Herman - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Herman: H-E-R-M-A-N, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Herman: HUR-mən; HER mun
Meaning of Herman: Soldier, army man, man in the army, person of high rank.
Origin of Herman: The name 'Herman' has Germanic roots and can be traced back to ancient times. It is derived from the Old High German name 'Heriman', which is composed of the elements 'heri' meaning 'army' or 'warrior', and 'man' meaning 'man' or 'person'. Therefore, the name 'Herman' can be interpreted to mean 'warrior' or 'man of the army.'

The earliest known use of the name 'Herman' dates back to the medieval period. It gained popularity in Germanic-speaking regions and gradually spread to other parts of Europe.; Dutch Names; English Names; German Names; Germanic Names; Slovenian Names; South African Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Herman: Armand; Armando; Armanno; Armin; Ermanno; Ermas; Erme; Ermin; Ermolaj; Harman; Hermeli; Hermie; Hermon
Popularity of Herman: Over time, the popularity of the name 'Herman' has had its ups and downs. In the early 20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in the United States. This can be attributed to the influx of German immigrants during that time. However, its popularity has waned in recent decades, and it is now considered a less common name.; Herman currently has 75 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Ned is slightly more popular than Herman.

Etymology of Herman

To understand the linguistic roots of the name 'Herman', we must delve into its origin language. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from Old High German. The Germanic tribes that inhabited the region during ancient times spoke a language that eventually evolved into what we now know as German. The name 'Herman' embodies the strength and valor associated with warriors, reflecting the cultural values of the Germanic people.

Cultural Significance of Herman

The name 'Herman' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In Germanic mythology, the god Hermod was known for his bravery and heroism. The name 'Herman', with its warrior connotations, can be seen as a nod to this mythological figure.

In addition, the name 'Herman' has been associated with nobility and leadership throughout history. Several notable individuals bearing this name have made significant contributions to their respective fields, from politics to literature. This cultural significance adds depth and resonance to the name.