What does Hermann mean and where does it come from?
The name Hermann is of German origin, traditionally used in German-speaking countries. It became popular in the 19th century and was notably borne by Hermann von Helmholtz, a famous German physicist and physician. The name is also associated with Hermann the Cheruscan, a chieftain who defeated the R
Cultural significance
Hermann has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of warrior, army man.
Peak popularity
Reached #662 in 1880 — currently #942 in the US.
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Related Reading
Germanic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hermann?
Hermann works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hermann Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hermann Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hermann Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hermann Claire
French influence · crisp
Hermann Jane
Literary · strong
Hermann Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hermann right now?
Holding steady — currently #942 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #942 | 1,258 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #947 | 1,238 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #952 | 1,208 | ▲ up 4599 · +20033% births |
| 1980 | #5551 | 6 | ▼ down 54 · +20% births |
| 1975 | #5497 | 5 | ▼ down 2195 · -44% births |
| 1970 | #3302 | 9 | ▲ up 382 · +50% births |
| 1960 | #3684 | 6 | ▼ down 1369 · -50% births |
| 1955 | #2315 | 12 | ▲ up 1036 · +100% births |
| 1950 | #3351 | 6 | ▼ down 1605 · -62% births |
| 1940 | #1746 | 16 | ▲ up 392 · +33% births |
| 1935 | #2138 | 12 | ▲ up 488 · +20% births |
| 1930 | #2626 | 10 | ▼ down 606 · -37% births |
| 1925 | #2020 | 16 | ▼ down 125 · -11% births |
| 1920 | #1895 | 18 | ▼ down 183 · +6% births |
| 1915 | #1712 | 17 | — |
The story of Hermann
Hermann has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 721 total births recorded, Hermann remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #662 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #942 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hermann in 1880:
Hermann by decade
Hermann peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 26 | |
| 1890s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 12 | |
| 1910s | 131 | |
| 1920s ★ | 144 | |
| 1930s | 93 | |
| 1940s | 66 | |
| 1950s | 71 | |
| 1960s | 59 | |
| 1970s | 30 | |
| 1980s | 27 | |
| 1990s | 21 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
| 2010s | 25 | |
💎Hermann has only 721 total recorded births since 1880 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Hermann?
Famous people named Hermann
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Hermann (medieval German ruler)
Hermann bore this name during the Holy Roman Empire, spreading Germanic naming traditions across Europe.
H(
Hermann (German philosopher)
Hermann used this name in the rich tradition of German intellectual and philosophical culture.
H(
Hermann (Scandinavian royal)
Hermann held this name in the Nordic royal courts, giving it aristocratic prestige across Northern Europe.
H(
Hermann (Germanic saint)
Hermann spread this name through the Germanic missionary tradition of early Christianity.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Hermann?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hermann also consider these
How is Hermann written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Hermann?
Common questions about the name Hermann
What does the name Hermann mean?
Hermann means "warrior, army man" — a name rooted in Germanic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hermann?
Hermann is currently ranked #942 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hermann?
Hermann originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Hermann a common or rare name?
Hermann is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Hermann?
Hermann naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.