Gretel

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

Gretel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Gretel
G-R-E-T-E-L, is a 6-letter female given name.
Meaning of Gretel
Pearl, a pearl, derivative: from the name margaret.
Origin of Gretel
The name 'Gretel' has German origins. It is derived from the longer name 'Margarete', which is the German form of Margaret. 'Margaret' comes from the Greek name 'Margareta', meaning 'pearl'.
German Names
Literary Names
Scandinavian Names
Swiss Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Gretel
Daisy
Gerta
Grere
Gret
Greta
Gretal
Gretchen
Grete
Grethel
Grethen
Grette
Madge
Madlinka
Madsche
Mag
Maggie
Maharite
Mahoul
Maiga
Mairead
Mairghread
Mairgret
Maisie
Maizie
Maj
Malgerita
Malgozata
Mamie
Maragreta
Maret
Maretta
Marga
Margalit
Margaret
Margarida
Margarita
Marge
Margen
Margery
Margisia
Margo
Margot
Margruta
Marguerite
Marjorie
Marketa
Markita
Meg
Megan
Meggie
Meggy
Metje
Metta
Mette
Meyta
Peg
Pegeen
Peggy
Reet
Riet
Rieta
Rita
Popularity of Gretel
The name 'Gretel' is not as popular as some other names, but it has been used consistently over time. It has experienced periods of higher popularity, particularly in the early to mid-20th century.
Gretel currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Gretel

As mentioned earlier, 'Gretel' is a diminutive form of the name 'Margaret'. The suffix '-el' is a common diminutive ending in German, indicating affection or smallness. Therefore, 'Gretel' can be seen as an endearing nickname for someone named Margaret.

Cultural Significance of Gretel

The name 'Gretel' is often associated with the German culture and heritage. It carries a sense of tradition and can evoke images of fairy tales, such as the character Gretel from the famous Brothers Grimm story 'Hansel and Gretel'. In German folklore, Gretel is portrayed as a clever and resourceful young girl.