Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Author of the novel featuring Werther and a key figure in German literature.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈvɛr.tɐ
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Syllables
Werther is a Germanic name derived from Old High German elements 'wer' meaning 'man' and 'heri' meaning 'army' or 'warrior'. It historically signifies a strong protector or defender, reflecting a person who stands for his people in battle or conflict. The name gained cultural prominence through Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther," symbolizing deep emotional sensitivity and romantic idealism.
Cultural Significance of Werther
The name Werther holds significant cultural weight primarily due to Goethe's influential novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther" published in 1774. The novel sparked a wave of 'Werther Fever' across Europe, inspiring a new literary movement and even influencing fashion and emotional expression among young men. Werther symbolizes tragic romanticism and deep introspection, making it a name often associated with sensitive and artistic personalities.
Werther Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Werther is an uncommon but distinctive name choice. It is rarely used in English-speaking countries but retains a classic and literary charm in German-speaking regions. Modern parents who choose Werther often appreciate its historical depth, literary connection, and unique sound. The name is seen as sophisticated, somewhat vintage, and ideal for families seeking a meaningful, uncommon Germanic name with a romantic heritage.
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International Variations10
WerterWertharWerthyrWertherusWerthWertheWerthaWertorWertharicWerthyran
Name Energy & Essence
The name Werther carries the essence of “Defender or protector of the people” from Germanic tradition. Names beginning with "W" often embody qualities of wisdom, wonder, and willpower.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Werther holds significant cultural weight primarily due to Goethe's influential novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther" published in 1774. The novel sparked a wave of 'Werther Fever' across Europe, inspiring a new literary movement and even influencing fashion and emotional expression among young men. Werther symbolizes tragic romanticism and deep introspection, making it a name often associated with sensitive and artistic personalities.
Werther von Braunschweig
Medieval German nobleman and military leader.
Werther Schultze
19th-century German composer and organist known regionally.
Werther Lohse
Painter
Werther Dell'Edera
Italian Politician
Werther Fragnière
Swiss Social Scientist
The Sorrows of Young Werther ()
Werther ()
Goethe! ()
Romantic Tragedy ()
Werther's Legacy ()
Youth and Sorrow ()
The Young Lover ()
Classic Tragedy ()
Werther
🌐Spanish
Werther
🌐French
Werther
🌐German
Werther
🌐Italian
ヴェルテル (Veruteru)
🌐Japanese
维尔特 (Wéi ěr tè)
🌐Chinese
فيرثر
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Werther
The novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther" reportedly caused a wave of copycat suicides in the 18th century, leading to the book being banned in several places, a phenomenon now known as the 'Werther Effect.'
Personality Traits for Werther
Individuals named Werther are often perceived as thoughtful, introspective, and deeply empathetic. They can exhibit a creative and artistic nature, combined with a strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness toward loved ones. Werthers tend to be sensitive and idealistic, sometimes prone to melancholy, but always driven by a desire for authenticity and meaningful connections.
What does the name Werther mean?
Werther is a Germanic name meaning “Defender or protector of the people”. Werther is a Germanic name derived from Old High German elements 'wer' meaning 'man' and 'heri' meaning 'army' or 'warrior'. It historically signifies a strong protector or defender, reflecting a person who stands for his people in battle or conflict. The name gained cultural prominence through Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther," symbolizing deep emotional sensitivity and romantic idealism.
How do you pronounce Werther?
Werther is pronounced (IPA: ˈvɛr.tɐ). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Werther?
Popular nicknames for Werther include: Werth, Wert, Werty, Thor, Wer, Werthy, Wes, Herth, Wertie, Werthie.
Who are famous people named Werther?
Famous people named Werther include: , , , Werther Lohse, Werther Dell'Edera.
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Werther is a beautiful Germanic name meaning “Defender or protector of the people”. Werther is a Germanic name derived from Old High German elements 'wer' meaning 'man' and 'heri' meaning 'army' or 'warrior'. It historically signifies a strong protector or defender, reflecting a pers...
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