Proper names

Aaron < latin Aaron < ancient greek Ααρών | Aaron < hebrew Aharon < (?) egyptian origin.

Abigail < hebrew Abhigayil (= [my] father is rejoicing) < abh (= father) + gil (= rejoice).

Aborigine < latin aborigines (= the first inhabitants) / ab origine (= from the beginning) < ab (= from) + origo [gen. originis] (= rise, birth) (< orior [inf. oriri] (= arise, be born)).

Abraham < latin Abraam < ancient greek Αβραάμ | Abhraam < hebrew Abraham (= father of a multitude) < abh (= father) + *raham (= multitude) < [previous name] Abram (= high father) < abh + ram (= high).

Adam < hebrew adam (= man) < adamah (= ground).

Adelaide < french Adélaide [cf. old high german Adalhaid < adal (= noble family) (< proto-germanic *athala-) + heit (= state, rank)].

Africa < latin Africa [terra] (= African [land], Libya, the province of Africa, the continent Africa), female of Africus (= of Africa) < Afer [gen. Afris] (= an African).

Alan < old breton [Saint] Alan.

Alaska < russian Aljaskat < aleut alakshak (= big country, continent).

Albania < medieval latin Albania < medieval greek Αλβανία | Albhania < (?) 1. I.E. *alb (= hill) or 2. I.E. *albho- (= white).

Albert < german Albert < old high german Adalbert (= noble bright) < adal (= noble family) (< proto-germanic *athala-) + proto-germanic *berhta- (= bright).

Alcatraz < spanish / portuguese alcatraz (= pelican, cormorant) < (?) 1. arabic al-ghattas < al (= the) + ghattas (= sea eagle) or 2. portuguese alcatruz (= bucket of a water wheel) < arabic al-qadus < al (= the) + qadus (= machine for drawing water, jar) (< ancient greek κάδος | kadhos (= jar)) [(?) as a reference to the pelican’s pouch].

Alfred < old english Ælfræd < ælf (= elf) + ræd (= counsel).

Algeria < arabic al-Jazair < al (= the) + jazair, plural of jezira (= island) [in reference to the islands next to this city].

Alice < old french Aliz < old high german Adalhaid < adal (= noble family) + heit (= state, rank).

Alison < french Alison < Alice < old french Aliz < old high german Adalhaid (< adal (= noble family) + heit (= state, rank)).

Allah < arabic Allah < al-Ilah < al (= the) + Ilah (= God).

Allen < Alan < old breton [Saint] Alan.

Alma Mater < latin Alma Mater (= nurturing mother) [a title given by Romans to certain goddesses] < alma, female of almus (= nurturing) < alo [inf. alere] (= nourish, support)) + mater (= mother).

Alps < french Alpes < latin Alpes (= the Alps) < (?) 1. altus (= high) or 2. albus (= white) or 3. celtic source.

Amanda < latin amanda (= pleasing), female gerundive of amo [inf. amare] (= to love).

Amelia < latin Amelia (= laborious) < germanic origin.

America < modern latin americanus < italian Amerigo [Vespucci], an Italian geographer [who claimed first to have discovered a new continent, not the India as Chr. Colombo believed, and call it New World] < (?) gothic Amalrich (= work-ruler).

Amsterdam < dutch Amstel, a river (< germanic ama (= current) + stelle (= place)) + [suffix] -dam [in place names].

Andalusia < spanish Andalusia < arabic al Andalus < al (= the) + Andalus (< (?) late latin *Vandalicia (= the country of Vandals) < latin Vandali (= Vandals), a germanic tribe [settled in southern Spain] < (?) proto-germanic *wandljaz (= wanderer)).

Andrew < old french Andreu < late latin Andreas < ancient greek Ανδρέας | Andhreas < ανήρ | anēr [gen. ανδρός | andhros] (= man).

Andy < a shortening of Andrew (q.v.).

Angle < old english Angle < latin Angli < Angul, a region (today, Holstein) [so called for its shape like a hook or for their fishing with hooks] < latin angulus (= angle).

Angus < scottish Angus, related to irish Aonghus < celtic oen (= one) + old irish gus (= ability, strength).

Anna < latin Anna < ancient greek Άννα | Anna < hebrew Hannah (= grace).

Annuit Coeptis (words on the Great Seal of the U.S.A.) < latin [audacibus] annue coeptis (= [favor (my)] daring undertakings), a phrase from poet Virgil (with a change of annue to annuit) < annuo [inf. annuere] (= agree to) (< adnuo [inf. adnuere] < ad (= to) + nuo [inf. nuere] (= to nod)) + coeptus, past participle of coepio [inf. coepere] (= begin) (< cum (= with) + ap(i)o [inf. ap(i)ere] (= happen on).

Antarctica < antarctic < middle english antartyk < old french antartique < medieval latin antarcticus < ancient greek ανταρκτικός | antarktikos (< αντί | anti (= against, opposite) + αρκτικός | arktikos (= arctic, of the constellation Bear [= Ursa major]) < άρκτος | arktos (= bear)).

Anthony < latin Antonius < (?) etruscan origin.

Apache < (?) american indian 1. apachewatche (= man of war) or 2.‘epache (= people).

April < old french avril < latin Aprilis < 1. aperio [inf. aperire] (= open) or 2. (?) etruscan Apru < ancient greek Αφρώ | Aphrō < Αφροδίτη | Aphrodhitē, the goddess of love.

Aquarius < latin aquarius (= water carrier) < aqua (= water).

Arab < old french Arabi < latin Arabs < ancient greek Άραψ | Araps [gen. Άραβος | Arabhos) < arabic ‘arab (= (?) inhabitant of the desert).

Aries < latin aries (= ram).

Argentina < latin argentinus (= of silver) < argentum (= silver).

Arnold < old high german Arenwald < arn (= eagle) + wald (= power).

Arthur < medieval latin Art(h)urus < (?) welsh arth (= bear).

Ashley < Ashley / Ashleigh < old english æsc (= ash tree) (< proto-germanis *askaz) + leah (= open field).

Asia < latin Asia < ancient greek Ασία | Asia < (?) 1. akkadian asu (= sunrise) or 2. sanskrit usa (= sunrise).

Audrey < Aldreda < Etheldreda < old english Æðelðryð < æðele (= noble) + ðryð (= strength, might).

August < latin Augustus, in honor of emperor Augustus Caesar < augustus (= venerable) < augur (= augurer, diviner).

Austin < old french Aousten < Augustine < latin Augustinus, a diminutive of Augustus (= venerable) < augur (= augurer, diviner).

Australia < modern latin [Terra] Australis (= southern [land]) < australis (= southern) < auster [gen. austris] (= south wind, south).

Austria < medieval latin [Marchia] austriaca (= eastern [borderland]) [from the german point of view, cf. german Österreich < old high german ostar (= eastern) + reich (= kingdom)] < auster [gen. austris] (= east, [later] south).

Azores < (?) portuguese açores, plural of açor (= vulture).

Aztec < spanish Azteca < nahuatl aztecatl (= coming from Aztlan).

Bahamas < (?) spanish baja mar (= low sea) [in reference to the shallow water in these islands].

Baldwin < old french Baldoin < related to old high german Baldawin (< bald (= bold) + wini (= friend))].

Barcelona < spanish Barcelona < mauritanian Barjalunah < phoenician [Hamlicar] Barca, the Carthaginian general [who is supposed to have founded this city].

Barnard < old english bera (= a bear) (< proto-germanic *bero (= a bear)) + old english heard (= severe, harsh) (< proto-germanic *hardu- (= hard, bold).

Barney < a shortening of 1. Barnard (q.v.) or 2. Barnaby < ancient greek Βαρνάβας | Bharnabhas < aramaic Bar-nebhua (= son of consolation).

Bart < a shortening of Bartholomew < old french Barthelemieu < latin Bartholomeus < ancient greek Βαρθολομαίος | Bhartholomaeos < aramaic Bar-tolmai (= son of Tolmai).

Basel < german Basel < late latin Basileia < ancient greek βασιλεία | bhasiloea (= royal) < βασιλεύς | bhasilefs (= king).

Basque < french Basque < spanish Vasco < Vascon < latin Vascones < (?) Eskualduna, the people’s name.

Bastille < french Bastille (= fortress, gate tower) < old french bastir (= build).

Bauhaus < german Bauhaus < Bau (= building, construction) (< old high german buan (= dwell)) + Haus (= house) (< proto-germanic *husan).

Bavaria < latin Bavaria < latin Baiuvarii, Celtic tribes.

Beatrice < french Béatrice < late latin beatrix [gen. beatricis] (= who makes happy) < beatus (= happy, blessed), past participle of beo [inf. beare] (= make happy, bless).

Beijing < chinese Beijing (= southern capital) < bei (= north) + jing (= capital).

Beirut < hebrew Beirut (= the wells) < be’erot, plural of be’er (= a well, spring).

Belgium < latin Belgium < Belgæ, a Celtic tribe < (?) celtic volca (= active, changeable).

Benjamin < hebrew Binyamin (= son of the right hand / son of the south) < ben (= son of) + yamin (= right hand / south).

Berenice < latin Berenice < ancient greek Βερενίκη | Bherenikē, Φερενίκη | Pherenikē (= [she] bringer of victory) < φέρω | pherō (= bring)) + νίκη | nikē (= victory).

Bermuda < spanish [Juan de] Bermudez, an explorer who discovered these islands.

Bern < german Bern < 1. old high german bero (= a bear) or 2. I.E. *ber- (= marshy place).

Bernard < german Bernhard < old high german bero (= a bear) + harti (= hard, bold).

Betty < Bet, a shortening of Elizabeth < late latin Elisabeth < ancient greek Ελισάβετ | Elisabhet < hebrew Elishebha (= God is abundant | God is an oath).

Bible < αnglo-latin biblia < old french bible (= the Bible) < late latin biblia (= the Bible) [neuter plural as feminine singular] < biblia [sacra] (= [holy] books) < ancient greek βιβλία [‘άγια] | bhibhlia [^haghia] (= [holy] books) < βιβλία, neutral plural of βιβλίον | bhibhlion (= papyrus, scroll, book) < βύβλος | bhybhlos [female] (= papyrus) < Βύβλος | Bhybhlos (< phoenician Gebhal (= (?) frontier town / mountain town)), a Phoenician city [from which was exported the elaborated Egyptian papyrus].

Big Ben < big + Ben, a shortening of Benjamin [Hall]) [under whose supervision this bell was cast for the Parliament tower of London in 1861].

Blanche < french Blanche < old french blanc (= white) < frankish *blank (= white, gleaming).

Bob < a shortening of old french Robert < old high german Hrodberht < hrod- (= fame, glory) + *berth (= bright).

Bohemia < middle french Boheme < latin Boiohaemum < Boii, a Celtic tribe ( < celtic bhoi (= war)) + proto-germanic *haimaz (= home).

Bonaparte < french [Napoleon] Bonaparte < italian Buonaparte < buona (= good) [female] (< latin bonus, -a, -um (= good)) + parte (= part, share) (< latin pars [gen. partis] (= part, piece)).

Boston < Botolph's stone [(?) from the name of a landowner] < Botolph (< old english Botwulf) + stone.

Bradley < old english brad (= broad) + leah (= open field) (< læch < proto-germanic *lauhaz).

Brazil < 1. portuguese Brazil < brasa, a type of red wood used in making dye < middle german bras (= metal, tin) or 2.middle english brasile (= brasil red-dye wood) < medieval latin brasilium / old french bresil < (?) germanic origin.

Brenda < scottish Brenda < old norse brandr (= sword, torch).

Bridget < irish Brighid, a goddess (of fire, spring, fertility, healing, smithcraft and poetry) < brigh (= strength) < celtic *brig-o- (= strength).

Britain < middle english Breteyne, the island of England, Wales and Scotland < old french Bretaigne < latin Britannia < Brittania < Brittani (= the Britons) < celtic *Brittos, Celtic natives of Britain [before the Anglo-Saxon invasion].

British < old english Bryttisc (= relating to Britons) < Bryttas (= the Britons) < celtic *Brittos, Celtic natives of Britain [before the Anglo-Saxon invasion].

Brittany < middle english Britaine / Brutaine, a region in the north France, where the Romano-Celtic refugees settled there [Little Britain / Less Britain], after the Anglo-Saxon invasion of [Great] Britain) < old french Bretaigne < latin Britannia < Brittania < Brittani (= the Britons) < celtic *Brittos, celtic natives of Britain [before the Anglo-Saxon invasion].

Bronx < [Jonas] Bronck, a Scandinavian immigrant [who settled there in 1641].

Brooklyn < dutch Breukelen, a township near Utrecht < old high german bruoh (= moor, marshland).

Brussels < french Bruxelles < old german Broca-cella / Bruoc-cella < brocca (= marsh) + sali / sella (= room, building) (< latin cella (= room, house)) [because it was founded as a fortress on an island of the river Senne].

Budapest < hungarian Budapest < Buda (= (?) water [cf. old church slavonic voda (= water)]) + Pest (< slavic pest (= furnace, oven, cove)), the two cities on opposite shores of the Danube river.

Buddha < sanskrit Buddha (= awakened, enlightened) < budda, past participle of budh (= awake, perceive) < I.E. *bheudh- (= be aware, make aware).

Bulgaria < medieval latin Bulgaria < 1. burgarii [plural] (= guards of castle) < latin burgus (= small tower) or 2. Bulgari [plural] (= the men from the river Volga) or 3. old german bulgha (= mixing) or 4. latin bulga (= leather sack).

Byzantine < late latin Byzantinus < Byzantium, original name of Constantinople < ancient greek Βυζάντιον | Bhyzantion, a settlement there < Βύζας | Bhyzas [gen. Βύζαντος | Bhyzantos], the founder of the city [who came from Megara, a town near Athens].

Cadiz < spanish Cadiz < latin Gades < ancient greek Γάδειρα | Ghadhoera < phoenician gadir (= fort, enclosure).

Caesar < middle english Cesar < Cæsar < latin [Caius Julius] Caesar, a title of emperor of Rome {> german Kaiser, russian tsar} < Caesar, a surname of the Julian gens in Rome < (?) 1. caesus, past participle of caedo [inf. caedere] (= to cut) [because Caesar was said to have been delivered surgically (by caesarian section)] or 2. caesaries (= head of hair) [because he was said to be born with a full hair] or 3. caeruleus (= cyan-gray) or 4. caesius (= bluish-gray) [because of the color of his eyes].

Cairo < arabic [al-]Kahira (= [the] victorius / [the] strong) [the new city built north of the old egyptian Khere-ohe / Khreri-aha (= place of combat)].

Calais < gaulish Caleti, a Celtic people [who lived there].

Calcutta < sanskrit Kali, a Hindu goddess < kali (= black).

California < spanish California < (?) a compound of caliente fornella (= hot cauldron) < latin calidus (= warm) + fornus (= oven).

Cambridge < old english Grontabricc (= bridge on [river] Granta) < celtic Granta (= crooked) + old english brycge (< proto-germanic *brugjo).

Cameron < gaelic camshron (= wry or hooked nose).

Camilla < latin Camilla, female of Camillus < camillus (= young man in service of a priest) < (?) etruscan origin.

Canada < iroquoian (= a village of huts).

Cannes < french Cannes < (?) pre-I.E. *kan (= height).

Capitol < latin Capitolium, temple of Jupiter on the Capitoline hill in Rome < caput [gen. capitis] (= head) < I.E. *kaput- (= head).

Capricorn < latin capricornus (= horned like a goat) < caper [gen. capri] (= goat) + cornu (= horn).

Caribbean < spanish Caribe < arawakan Carib (= strong), the natives of the islands of Caribbean < (?) kalin(ag)o (= brave / strong men) [cf. cannibal].

Carl < old norse karl (= man, male) / middle high german Karl (= man, husband) < proto-germanic *karlon- (= man, husband).

Carol < medieval latin Carolus < middle high german Karl (= man, husband) < proto-germanic *karlon- (= man, husband).

Carthage < latin Carthago [gen. Carthaginis] < phoenician quart khadash (= new town).

Casablanca < spanish Casablanca (= white house) < casa (= house) (< latin casa (= hut, cottage)) + blanca, female of blanco (= white) (< frankish *blank (= white, gleaming)).

Catherine < french Catherine [(?) by influence of folk etymology from ancient greek καθαρός | katharos (= pure)] < medieval latin Katerina < latin Ecaterina < ancient greek Αικατερίνη | Aekaterinē.

Caucasian < latin Caucasus < 1. hittit kaz-kaz, a nation of Black Sea or 2. pelasgian *kau- (= mountain).

Cecil < latin Caecilius < caecus (= blind).

Charles < french Charles < medieval latin Carolus < middle high german Karl (= man, husband) < proto-germanic *karlon- (= man, husband).

Charlie < Charles (q.v.). Especially:

1. Charlie (= Japanese soldier) slang from World War II < Charlie (= Asian man) [1930] < Charlie Chan, fictional Chinese detective.

2. Charlie (= Vietcong soldier) slang from Vietnam War [1965] < (?) Victor, Charlie, from military communication code for letters V, C, as an abbreviation for Viet Cong.

Chelsea < middle english Chelchuthe < old english Chelchede < Celchyth < Caelichyth < cealc (= chalk) + hyth (= landing place).

Cherokee < Chorakae, natives of North America < iroquoian tsaragi.

Chester < middle english Cestre < old english Legacæstir (= city of the legions) < latin legio (= legion) + old english ceaster (= [Roman] town) (< latin castrum (= fort, fortified place) < proto-italic *kastro- (= part, share)).

Chicago < canadian french Chicago < 1. algonquian /sheka:ko:heki/ (= place of the wild onion) or 2. ojibwa shika:konk (= at the skunk place).

China < (?) sanskrit Cina-s (= the Chinese) < chinese Qin / Ts’in, an old dynasty of China.

Chloe < latin Chloe < ancient greek Χλόη | Khloē < χλόη | khloē (= greenery, grass) < I.E. *ghlo- < *ghel-₍₂₎ (= shine).

Chris < a shortening of 1. Christopher or 2. Christine / Christina.

Christ < old english Crist < latin [Jesus] Christus < ancient greek [Ιησούς] Χριστός | [Iēsous] Khristos (= [Jesus] the Anointed) < χρίω | khriō (= to rub, anoint) < I.E. *ghrei- (= to rub).

Christmas < old english Cristes mæsse < Christ + mæsse (< vulgar latin *messa (= eucharistic service) < late latin missa (= dismissal) < missa, past participle of mitto [inf. mittere] (= let go, send)).

Christopher < late latin Christophoros < ancient greek Χριστοφόρος | Khristophoros < Χριστός | Khristos (= the Anointed) (< χρίω | khriō (= to rub, anoint)) + φόρος | phoros (= bearer) (< φέρω | pherō (= to carry)).

Cinderella < french Cendrillon < cendre (= ash) < latin cinis [gen. cineris] (= ash).

Cindy < Cynthia < latin Cynthia < ancient greek Κυνθία | Kynthia, an epithet of goddess Artemis, born on mountain Cynthus [of Delos island] < Κύνθος | Kynthos (= Cynthus).

Claire < french claire, female of clair (= light, bright) < latin clarus (= clear, bright, distinct).

Clara < latin Clara < clara, female of clarus (= bright, shining, clear).

Clarisse < a diminutive of Clara < latin Clara < clara, female of clarus (= bright, shining, clear).

Clark(e) < middle english Clark(e) < middle english clerk (= priest) (< old english cleric < late latin clericus (= priestly) < ancient greek κληρικός | klērikos (= of the clergy) < κλήρος | klēros (= a lot, allotment of share)).

Claude < french Claude < latin Claudius < (?) claudus (= limping, lame).

Cleopatra < ancient greek Κλεοπάτρα | Kleopatra < κλέος | kleos (= fame) + πάτρα | patra (= homeland).

Clothilde < french Clothilde < german Klothilde < old high german *klod (= famous) + hild (= battle).

Cohen < hebrew kohen (= priest) < kihen (= he acted as priest).

Colin < french Colin < Col < a diminutive of Nicolas < latin Nic(h)olaus < ancient greek Νικόλαος | Nikolaos < νίκη | nikē (= victory) + λαός | laos (= people).

Colorado < spanish [Rio] Colorado (= [river] Reddish) < colorado (= colored, reddish) < colorado, past participle of colorar (= to color, dye, paint) < latin coloro [inf. colorare] (= to color, to get tanned) < color (= color of the skin, color, appearance) < old latin colos (= a covering).

Colosseum < medieval latin Colosseum < colosseum, neuter of colosseus (= gigantic) < latin colossus (= gigantic statue) [(?) a reference to a gigantic statue of Nero next to this building] < ancient greek κολοσσός | kolossos (= gigantic statue) [e.g. ο κολοσσός της ‘Ρόδου (= the colossus of Rhode)].

Confucius < modern latin Confucius < chinese K’ung Fu-tzu (= K’ung the philosopher / the master).

Connecticut < algonquian / mohican quinnitukqut (= at the long tidal river) < *kwen- (= long) + *-ehtekw (= tidal river) + *-enk (= place).

Connor < Conner < old english cunnere (= examiner, inspector).

Conrad < old high german Kuonrat < kuon (= bold) + rat (= counsel).

Constantine < latin Constantinus < constans [gen. constantis] (= steadfast, faithful) < constans, present participle of consto [inf. constare] (= stand together) < com (= with, together) + sto [inf. stare] (= to stand).

Constantinople < medieval greek Κωνσταντινούπολις | Kōnstantinoupolis < Κωνσταντίνου πόλις | Kōnstantinou polis (= Constantine’s city) < Κωνσταντίνου, genitive of Κωνσταντίνος (= Constantine [q.v.]), the Roman emperor [who transferred the capital from Rome to the city of ancient Byzantium] + πόλις (= city).

Copenhagen < danish København (= merchant’s port) < danish køber (= merchant) + havn (= port).

Cordova < spanish Córdoba < phoenician qorteb (= oil press).

Cox < middle english Cocks < 1. cock (< old english cocc (= male bird, rooster)) or 2. cook (< old english coc < vulgar latin *cocus (= a cook) < latin coquus (= a cook) < coquo [inf. coquere] (= to cook)) or 3. welsh coch (= red).

Creole < french créole < spanish criollo (= native to a locality) < portuguese crioulo, a diminutive of cria (= raised person) < criar (= to raise, bring up) < latin creo [inf. creare] (= make, build, produce, bear).

Crimea < modern latin Crimea / french Crimée < rusian Krimm / Krym < mongolian (of Tatars) kherem (= strength).

Cynthia < latin Cynthia < ancient greek Κυνθία | Kynthia, an epithet of goddess Artemis, born on mountain Cynthus [of Delos island] < Κύνθος | Kynthos (= Cynthus).

Cyprus < middle english Cipre(s) < ancient greek Κύπρος | Kypros.

Cyrus < ancient greek Κύρος | Kyros < old persian Kurush.

Czech < czech Český (= Bohemian, Czech) < (?) četa (= army).

Dalai Lama < mongolian dalai (= ocean, “big”) [in contrast to the Panchen Lama (< tibetan pandi-tachen-po (= great learned one)] + lama (< tibetan blama (= chief, high priedt).

Daniel < ancient greek Δανιήλ | Daniēl < hebrew Daniyél (= my judge is God).

Danish < middle english Danish < old english Denisc (= people of Denmark) < danish Daner / medieval latin Dani < (?) proto-germanic *den- (= low ground).

Danny < Daniel < ancient greek Δανιήλ | Daniēl < hebrew Daniyél (= my judge is God).

Danube < late latin Danubius < latin Danuvius < celtic *danu(w)-yo- < I.E. *danu- (= river).

Daphne < ancient greek Δάφνη | Dhaphnē < δάφνη | dhaphnē (= laurel, bay tree).

David < ancient greek Δαυίδ | Dhavidh < hebrew Dawidh (= darling, beloved friend).

Deborah < hebrew Deborah (= bee).

December < old english December < old french Decembre < latin December [mensis] (= tenth [month]) [of the old Roman calendar, which began with March] < decem (= ten) + [suffix] -ber (< -bris).

Delhi < (?) hindi delhi (= threshold) [as the boundary between the rivers Ganges and Indus].

Delilah < hebrew Delilah (= delicate, amorous) < semitic d-l-l (= to hang down, to languish).

Denmark < middle english Denemarke < old english Dene-mearce < Dane (< danish Daner < (?) proto-germanic *den- (= low ground)) + mark (= border).

Dennis < french Denis < latin Dionysius < ancient greek Διονύσιος | Dhionysios, a saint < Διόνυσος | Dhionysos, the god of wine.

Detroit < french détroit (= strait) < old french destreit < latin districtus, past participle of distringo [inf. distringere] (= draw apart) < dis- (= un-, apart)) + stringo [inf. stringere] (= draw tight).

Dexter < 1) [as a proper name] < latin dexter (= on the right hand) < I.E. *deks- (= right, south)), 2) [as a surname] < middle english deister (= a dyer) < deie (= dye) + [suffix] -ster.

Diana < middle english Diana < late latin Diana, a goddess < old latin Jana.

Dick < Rick < a shortening of Richard < middle english Rycharde < old french Richard < old high german Ricohard < proto-germanic *rik- (= ruler) + *harthu (= hard).

Dietrich < old high german Theodric < theuda (= folk) + rihhi (= rule) (< proto-germanic *rikja (= rule)).

Dolores < spanish [Maria de los] Dolores (= [Mary of the] Sorrows) < dolores, plural of dolor < latin dolor (= pain, sorrow).

Dominic < latin dominicus (= pertaining to a lord) < dominus (= lord, master, owner) < domus (= house).

Donald < scottish Dofnald / Dufenald < (?) gaelic Domhnall / old irish Domnall < proto-celtic *Dubno-valos < old irish domun (= world) + proto-celtic *walos (= ruler).

Donna < italian Donna (= lady) < latin domina (= lady) < latin domus (= house).

Donovan < irish Donndubhan (= dark brown).

Dorothy < french Dorothée < latin Dorothea < ancient greek Δωροθέα | Dhōrothea < δώρον | dhōron (= gift) + θεά | thea (= goddess), female of θεός | theos (= god).

Douglas < middle english Douglas < gaelic Dubh ghlais (= dark water), a place in Lanarkshire.

Dublin < irish dubh (= black) + linn (= pool) [from the dark waters of the river Liffey].

Duncan < 1. gaelic donn (= brown) + ceann (= head) or 2. old gaelic Donnchad (= brown warrior).

Dutch < middle english Dutch < middle dutch duutsch < old high german duitisc < proto-germanic *theudō (= popular, national) < I.E. *teuta- (= tribe).

Easter < old english Easterdæg < Eastre (< proto-germanic *austron- (= dawn, a goddess of spring) < *aust- (= east)) + old english dæg (= day) (< proto-germanic *dages- (= day)).

Ecuador < spanish Ecuador (= equator) [because the equator runs through this country] < medieval latin aequator [diei et noctis] (= equalizer [of day and night]) < latin aequo [inf. aequare] (= make equal) < aequus (= level, flat).

Eden < middle english Eden < hebrew Edhen (= (?) pleasure, delight).

Edgar < old english Ead-gar < ead (= wealth, prosperity) + gar (= spear).

Edinburgh < celtic [Din] Eidyn (= (?) [fort] on a slope) + old english burh (= fort).

Edith < old english Eadgyð < ead (= wealth, prosperity) + guð (= war).

Edmund < old english Eadmund < ead (= wealth, prosperity) + mund (= hand, protector) < proto-germanic *mundo-.

Edward < old english Eadweard < ead (= wealth, prosperity) + weard (= guardian).

Edwin < old english Ead-wine < ead (= wealth, prosperity) + wine (= friend, protector).

Egbert < old english Ecg-beorht < old english ecg (= edge, sword) + beorht (= bright).

Egypt <old english Egipte < french Egypte < ancient greek Αίγυπτος | Aeghyptos < akkadian Ha(t)-ka-ptah (= temple of the soul of Ptah) [the name of the ancient city Memphis] < ha(t) (= temple) + ka (= soul) + Ptah (= [god] Ptah).

Eire < old irish Eriu < old celtic *Iveriu < (?) I.E. *pi-wer- (= fat, fertile) < *peie- (= be fat, swell).

Eleanor < provençal Alienor < alia Aenor (= [the] other Aenor) [a queen of Aquitaine, so called to distinguish her from hers mother with the same name, Aenor] < latin alia, female of alius (= other) + old germanic Aenor.

Electra < ancient greek Ηλέκτρα | Ēlektra < ήλεκτρον | ēlektron (= amber) < ηλέκτωρ | ēlektōr (= shining, bright).

Elias < ancient greek Ηλίας | Ēlias < hebrew Eliyahu (= God [is] Yah[weh]) < El (= God) + Yah / Yoh, a shortening of Yahwah / Yahweh (= God).

Eliot <old french Eliot, a diminutive of Elias < ancient greek Ηλίας | Ēlias < hebrew Eliyahu (= God [is] Yah[veh]) < El (= God) + Yah / Yoh, a shortening of Yahwah / Yahweh (= God).

Elizabeth < late latin Elisabeth < ancient greek Ελισάβετ | Elisabhet < hebrew Elishebha (= God is abundant / God is an oath).

Ellen < french Hélène < latin Helena < ancient greek ‘Ελένη | ^hElenē (= Helen).

Elsa < german Elsa, a diminutive of Elisabet < late latin Elisabeth < ancient greek Ελισάβετ | Elisabhet < hebrew Elishebha (= God is abundant / God is an oath).

Elvira < spanish Elvira < germanic (?) ala (= all) + wer (+ true).

Elysium < latin Elysium < ancient greek Ηλύσιον [πεδίον] | Ēlysion [pedhion] (= Elysian [field]) []a place where heroes dwell after their death].

Emil < german Emil < french Emilé < latin Aemilius < aemulus (= rivaling).

Emma < german Emma < Erma < Ermentrude < old high german Ermentrudis < ermin (= whole) + trut (= dear).

Emmanuel < ancient greek Εμμανουήλ | Emmanouēl < hebrew ‘Immanu’el (= God with us) < ‘immanu (= with us) (< ‘im (= with)) + El (= God).

England < old english Engla land (= land of Angles) < Engle (= Angles) + land (= ground, soil, territory) (< proto-germanic *landja-).

English < old english Englisc (= of the Angles) < Engle (= Angles).

Ephraim < ancient greek Ε(υ)φραίμ | E(f)phraem < hebrew Ephrajim (= productive, fertile) < parah (= was fruitful).

Erasmus < latin Erasmus (= beloved) < ancient greek εράσμιος | erasmios (= lovely) < ερώ | erō (= to love).

Eric < old norse Eirikr < proto-germanic *aiza- (= honor) + *rik- (= ruler).

Ernest < french Ernest (= earnest, serious) < proto-germanic *er-n-os-ti- {> old high german Ernust / german Ernst (= earnestness)}.

Eros < middle english Eros < ancient greek Έρως | Erōs, the god of love < έρως | erōs (= love) < ερώ | erō (= to love).

Eskimo < danish Eskimo / middle french Esquimaux < (?) algonquian 1. eskimants (= eats raw [meat]) [< eski (= raw) + mants (= he eats)] or 2. askimo / ashkimeq (= eaters of raw [meat]) [< proto-algonquian *ask- (= raw) + *-imo (= eat)] or 3. (= snowshoe-netter). [Their native name is Inuit, plural of inuk (= human)].

Esmerelda < spanish Esmerelda (= emerald) < medieval latin esmaraldus < latin smaragdus < ancient greek σμάραγδος | smaraghdhos (= emerald) < semitic baraq (= shine).

Essex < old english East-Seaxe (= East Saxons).

Esther < ancient greek Εσθήρ | Esthēr < hebrew Ester < persian sitareh (= star).

Ethan < hebrew ethan (= strong, permanent).

Ethel < a shortening of old english Etheldred / Ethelinda < æðele (= noble) + bryht (= bright).

Ethiop < middle english Ethiop < latin Aethiops (= Ethiopian) < ancient greek Αιθίοψ | Aethiops (= Ethiopian, “sun-burned”) < αίθω | aethō (= to burn) + ωψ | ōps (= face).

Etna < latin Aetna < sicilian *aith-na (= the fiery one) < I.E. *ai-dh- < *ai-₍₂₎ (= to burn).

Etta < a shortening of Henrietta < french Henriette, female of Henri < latin Henricus < german Heinrich < old german Heimerich < heim (= home) + rihhi (= ruler).

Eucharist < middle english Eucharist < old french eucariste < late latin eucharistia < ancient greek ευχαριστία | efkharistia (= thanksgiving) < ευχάριστος | efkharistos (= grateful) < ευ | ef (= well) + χάρις | kharis (= favor, grace).

Euclidean < ancient greek Ευκλείδης | Efkloedhēs, ancient geometer < ευ | ef (= well) + κλέος | kleos (= fame).

Eugene < french Eugène < latin Eugenius < ancient greek Ευγένιος | Evghenios < ευγενής | evghenēs (= nobleman, gentle) < ευ | ef, ev (= well) + γένος | ghenos (= parentage).

Euphrates < old english Eufrate < ancient greek Ευφράτης | Efphratēs < (?) 1. akkadian Ufratu < u (= much) + pratu (= wide) or 2. old persian Ufratu < avestan huperethuua < hu- (= good) + peretu- (= ford).

Europe < latin Europa < ancient greek Ευρώπη | Evrōpē < 1. ευρύς | evrys (= wide) + ωψ | ōps [gen. ωπός | ōpos] (= face, eye) or 2. phoenician ‘ereb (= evening) / akkadian erebu (= go down, set), hence “west”.

Euxine < latin [Pontus] Euxinus < ancient greek Εύξεινος [πόντος] | Efxoenos [pontos] (= hospitable [sea]) (< ευ | ef (= well) + ξένος | xenos (= host, guest, stranger)), an euphemism for [the dangerous, for the ships, Black Sea with the original name] Άξεινος [πόντος] | Axoenos [pontos] (= inhospitable [sea]) < (?) old persian axshaina / akhshaena (= dark) [a similar-sounding with ancient greek άξεινος | αxoenos], the name for this sea, because of its dangerous waves or its black color in the bottom.

Evan < welsh Evan (= John) [(?) by influence of welsh ieuanc (= young man) < celtic *yowanko-].

Eve < ancient greek Εύα | Eva < hebrew Hawwah (= a living being, life) < hawa (= he lived).

Evelyn < 1. Eve (< ancient greek Εύα | Eva < hebrew Hawwah (= a living being, life) < hawa (= he lived)) or 2. french Aveline < old high german Avelina < Avila < avi (= (?) desired).

Everest < [George] Everest, a Welsh surveyor and geographer in India (< french Devereux < Evereux, a place in France < celtic name of a tribe (in latin Eburovices) < Ebura, a river).

Ezekiel < late latin Ezechiel < ancient greek Ιεζεκιήλ | Iezekiēl < hebrew Yehezqel (= God strengthens) < hazaq (= he strengthened) + El (= God).

Faroese < faroese Føroyar (= sheep-islands) < før (= sheep) + oyar, plural of oy (= island).

Farrell < irish Fearghail (= man of valor).

Fata Morgana < italian Fata (< latin fata, neuter plural of fatum (= oracle, fate) < fatum, neuter past participle of for [inf. fari] (= to speak)) + Morgana (< anglo-french Morgan [le Fay], the sister of King Arthur, in poetry, located in Calabria of Italy < welsh Morgan (= sea-dweller)).

Fay < 1. middle english fei / old french fei (= faith) or 2. fay (= fairy).

February < middle english February < latin februarius [mensis] (= [month] of purification) [in reference to expiatory rites when this month was the last month of the ancient Roman calendar] < februo [inf. februare] (= to purify) < februa (= expiatory rites), plural of februum (= expiatory offerings).

Felix < latin felix [gen. felicis] (= happy).

Ferdinand < germanic Ferdinand < (?) proto-germanic *fardi-nanth- (= adventurer) < (?) *fardiz (= journey) + *nanthiz (= risk).

Fergus < gaelic Fearghus / old irish Fergus (= man-ability) < latin vir (= man) + old irish gus (= ability) (< celtic *gustu- (= choice)).

Ferris wheel < [George] Ferris, an American engineer [who designed it in Chicago in 1893] (< Ferrers < Ferrières, place in Normandy).

Finn < old english finnas < old norse finnr.

Florence < latin Florentia {> italian Fiorenze / Firenze}, female of Florentius (= blooming) [so called from the many gardens of this city] < florens [gen. florentis], present participle of floro [inf. florere] (= to flower) < flos [gen. floris] (= flower).

Florida < spanish [Pascua] florida (= flowering [Easter]) [because it was discovered on Easter of 1513] < latin floridus (= flowery) < flos [gen. floris] (= flower).

Floyd < Lloyd < welsh Llwyd (= gray).

Francis < french François < old french Franceis (= noble, free, French) < medieval latin Franciscus (= Frankish) < Francus (= Frank) < frankish *Frank.

France < old english France < old french France < medieval latin Francia < Francus (= Frank) < frankish *Frank.

Frank < old english franc (= freeman, noble, Frank) < medieval latin Francus < frankish *Frank.

Franklin < middle english Frankeleyn < anglo-french fraunclein (= freeholder) < old french franc (= free, Frank).

Frederick < french Frédéric < german Friedrich < old high german Fridurih < proto-germanic *frithu-rik < *frithu- (= peace) + *rik- (= rule).

French < middle english frensh / frenche < old english frencisc (= of the Franks, French) < Franc (= Frank) < medieval latin Francus < frankish *Frank.

Friday < old english frigedæg (= Frigga’s day) < *Frigu (= Frigga), a germanic goddess of married love + dæg (< proto-germanic *dages- (= day)).

Friedrich < german Friedrich < old high german Fridurih < proto-germanic *frithu-rik < *frithu- (= peace) + *rik- (= rule).

Fritz < german Fritz < Friedrich < old high german Fridurih < proto-germanic *frithu-rik < *frithu- (= peace) + *rik- (= rule).

Gabriel < ancient greek Γαβριήλ | Ghabhriēl < hebrew Gabhri el (= man of God) < gebher (= man) + El (= God).

Gallagher < irish Gallchobhar (= foreign-help).

Gallic < latin Gallicus (= pertaining to Gaul) < latin Gallus (= Gaul) < celtic origin.

Gary < [old norse geiri / old danish geri (= spear)] < proto-germanic *gaisa- (= spear).

Gaul < french Gaule < latin Gallia < Gallus (= Gaul).

Gemini < latin gemini, plural of geminus (= twin).

Geneva < latin Genava / Geneva / Genua < (?) 1. I.E. *gen- (= bend) [as a reference to its situation] or 2. janua (= gate) or 3. Janus, a Roman god, having two faces (cf. January).

Genevieve < french Geneviève < late latin Genovefa < (?) celtic origin.

Genoa < italian Genova < latin Genava / Geneva / Genua < (?) 1. I.E. *gen- (= bend) [as a reference to its situation] or 2. janua (= gate) or 3. Janus, a Roman god, having two faces (cf. January).

George < french Georges < late latin Georgius < ancient greek γεωργός | gheōrghos (= farmer) < γη | ghē [gen. γεώς | gheōs] (= earth) + έργον | erghon (= work).

Gerald < old french Giralt < old high german Gerwald (= spear-wielder) < proto-germanic *girald < gar / ger (= spear) + waltan (= to rule).

Gerard < old french Gerart < germanic gar / ger (= spear) + hart (= hard).

German < latin Germanus.

Geronimo < italian / spanish Geronimo < ancient greek ‘Ιερώνυμος | ^HIerōnymos < ‘ιερός | ^hieros (= holy) + όνυμα | onyma (= name).

Gertrude < french Gertrude < old high german Geretrudis < gar / ger (= spear) + trut (= beloved).

Gib < an abbreviation of Gilbert < 1. old french Guillebert < old high german Williberht (= bright will) or 2. old french Gilebert < Gisilbert (= bright pledge) < old high german gisil (= pledge) + beorht (= bright).

Gibraltar < arabic Jebel el Tarik (= Mountain of Tarik) < Tarik, a Saracen leader [who captured this place in 710].

Gilbert < 1. old french Guillebert < old high german Williberht (= bright will) or 2. old french Gilebert < Gisilbert (= bright pledge) < old high german gisil (= pledge) + beorht (= bright).

Giles < old french Gilles < latin Aegidius / Egidius < ancient greek αιγίδιον | aeghidhion (= kid) < αιξ | aex [gen. αιγός | aeghos] (= goat).

Gillian < french Juliane < late latin Juliana, female of Julianus (= of Julius) < latin Julius.

Gioconda < italian Gioconda, female of Giocondo < late latin jocundus (= pleasing, pleasant) < latin jucundus (= pleasant).

Giza < arabic Er-ges-her (= beside the high [i.e. the Great Pyramid]).

Glasgow < gaelic Glasgow < glas (= green) + cau (= hollow).

Gloria < latin gloria (= glory, fame, great honor).

Golgotha < latin Golgotha < ancient greek Γολγοθά | Gholghotha < aramaic gulgulta (= [place of the] skull).

Gondwana < sanskrit gondavana < vana (= forest) + Gonda (= fleshy navel, outie belly-button), a Dravidian people.

Goth < old english Gota < late latin Gothus < ancient greek Γότθος | Ghot-thos (= Goth) < gothic *Gutos.

Granada < spanish Granada < 1. latin granatum (= pomegranate) < granum (= grain, seed) or 2. moorish karnattah (= hill of strangers).

Greek < old english Grecas [plural] (= Greeks) < latin Graeci < ancient greek Γραικοί | Ghraikoe, a name used by Illyrians for the Greeks < Γραίοι | Ghraeoe, native name of the people in Epirus, or in a town of Boeotia, both regions of Greece.

Greenland < old norse Groenland [named by its discoverer to attract settlers to go to an island with such a good name] < groene (= green, growing, living) + land (= ground, soil, territory) (< proto-germanic *landja-).

Greenwich < old english Gronewic / Grenewic (= green harbor / green trading place) < grene / groene (= green, growing, living) + wic (= house, village, town).

Gregory < late latin Gregorius < ancient greek Γρηγόριος | Ghrēghorios < γρηγορώ | ghrēghorō (= be watchful, be awake).

Grenoble < latin Gratianopolis < [Flavius] Gratianus, a Roman emperor + ancient greek πόλις | polis (= town).

Greta < Gretchen (q.v.).

Gretchen < german Gretchen < Greta < a diminutive of Margaret < late latin Margarita < ancient greek μαργαρίτης [λίθος] | margharitēs [lithos] (= pearl [stone]).

Griffith < welsh Gruffydd < (?) latin Rufus < rufus (= red).

Griselda < italian Grishelda < german Grishilda < old high german grisja hilda < grisja (= gray) + Hilda (= battle-maid) (< hild (= war, battle) < proto-germanic *hildiz (= battle).

Guatemala < american indian 1. Quauhtemellan (= land of the eagle) or 2. Uhatzmalha (= mountain where water gushes).

Guy < french Guy, related to italian Guido.

Gypsy < gypcian < Egypcien (= Egyptian) [the “Little Egypt” was the supposed origin of this people] (< Egypt < old english Egipte < french Egypte < ancient greek Αίγυπτος | Aeghyptos < akkadian Ha(t)-ka-ptah, the name of the city Memphis < ha(t) (= temple) + ka (= soul) + Ptah (= [god] Ptah)).

Hague < dutch [Den] Haag < Gravenhage (= count’s hedge).

Haiti < arawak haiti (= land of mountains).

Halifax < late Halifax < old english halh (= secluded spot, nook of land) + feax (= rough grass).

Halloween < Hallow-e’en / Hallow e’en < scottish Holy Eve < a shortening of Allhallow-even (= Eve of All Saints [the last night of the year in the old celtic calendar, a night for witches] < all + hallow + even.

Hamburg < german Hamburg < (?) 1. old high german hamma (= ham) or 2. middle high german hamme (= enclosed area) + Burg (= fort).

Hannah < hebrew Hannah (= graciousness) < hanan (= he was gracious).

Hannibal < punic [semitic] Hannibha’al (= my favor is with Baal).

Hanover < german Hannover < middle low german hoch (= high) + over (= ridge).

Hans < a shortening of german / dutch Johannes < medieval latin Johannes < late latin Joannes < ancient greek Ιωάννης | Iōannēs < hebrew Yohanan (= God is gracious) < Yah / Yoh, a shortening of Yahwah / Yahweh (= God) + hanan (= he was gracious).

Harlem < dutch [Nieuw] Haarlem (= [New] Harlem) < Haarlem, a city in Netherlands < (?) haar (= height) + lem (= silt).

Harold < old norse Haraldr / old swedish Harald < proto-germanic *harja-waldaz (= army commander).

Harris / Harry < middle english Harry < Henry < french Henri < late latin Henricus < german Heinrich < old high german Heimerich (= ruler of the house) < heim (= home) + rihhi (= ruler).

Harvey < old french Hervé / old breton Hærviu (= battle-worthy).

Hawaii < hawaiian Hawai’i < proto-polynesian *hawaiki / owhyhii (= place of the gods) [ a reference to two volcanoes of these islands, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, as houses for the gods].

Hebrew < old english Hebrew < old french Ebreu < latin Hebraeus < ancient greek ‘Εβραίος | ^hEbhraeos < aramaic ‘ebhrai < hebrew ‘ibhri (= Israelite).

Helen < french Hélène < latin Helena < ancient greek ‘Ελένη | ^hElenē.

Helga < old norse Helga (= holy) < proto-germanic *hailaga < *kailo- (= whole, uninjured).

Henry < french Henri < late latin Henricus < german Heinrich < old high german Heimerich (= ruler of the house) < heim (= home) + rihhi (= ruler).

Herbert < old french Herbert < frankish *Hari-berct / *Her(e)-bert (= army-bright).

Hercules < latin Hercules < ancient greek ‘Ηρακλής | ^hĒraklēs < ‘Ήρα | ^hĒra + κλέος | kleos (= fame).

Herman < german Hermann < old high german Hariman (= warrior) < hari (= army) + man (= man).

Herzegovina < old serbian hercegov (< herceg (= duke) + [ending] -ov) + -ina (= country).

Hezekiah < hebrew Hizqiyya (= the Lord has strengthened) < hazaq (= he strengthened) + Yah / Yoh, a shortening of Yahwah / Yahweh (= God).

Hilary < late latin Hilarius (= cheerful) < latin hilaris (= cheerful, merry) < ancient greek ‘ιλαρός | ^hilaros (= merry, joyous).

Hilda < german Hilda (= battle-maid) < old high german hild (= war, battle) < proto-germanic *hildiz (= battle).

Himalaya < sanskrit himalayah (= abode of snow) < hima (= snow) (< I.E. *ghi-mo- < *gheim- (= winter)) + alayah (= abode) (< layate (= sticks, stays) < I.E. *(s)lei- (= sticky)).

Hiroshima < japanese Hiroshima < hiro (= broad) + shima (= island).

Holland < dutch Holland < (?) old dutch holt lant (= wood land).

Hollywood < holly (= a kind of holm-oak) (q.v.) + wood.

Hong Kong < cantonese Hong Kong < chinese Xianggang (= fragrant port).

Honolulu < hawaiian Honolulu < hono (= port) + lulu (= calm).

Honoria < latin Honoria, female of Honorius < honor (= honor, reputation).

Hubert < french Hobert < old high german Hugubert < hugu (= mind) + beraht (= bright).

Hugh < old french Hugues / old french Hue < frankish source (= heart, mind).

Humphrey < old english Hunfrið < (?) proto-germanic *hun (= strength) + old english frið (= peace).

Hungary < middle english Hungary < medieval latin Hungaria (= (?) land of the Huns (< latin Hunni (= Huns)). 

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