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Brunhilde Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Brunhilde

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name BRUNHILDE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Brunhilde

Gender

Female

Origin

German

Lucky Number

3

Meaning of the Name

Derived from Old High German elements meaning 'armor' and 'battle', Brunhilde is a legendary figure in Germanic mythology, often depicted as a powerful and valiant shieldmaiden or queen.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

3

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Jupiter

Positive Nature

Optimistic, inspirational, and creative.

Negative Traits

Scattered, exaggerating.

Lucky Colours

Yellow, gold, purple.

Lucky Days

Thursday.

Lucky Stones

Yellow sapphire.

Harmony Numbers

1, 2, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Arts, writing, communication.

What People Like About You

Creativity, optimism.

Famous People Named Brunhilde

Brunhilde of Austrasia

Frankish Queen

Ruled as regent for over 30 years, significantly influencing Merovingian politics

Brunhilde Pomsel

Secretary

Worked as Joseph Goebbels' personal secretary, later became symbol of bureaucratic complicity

Brünhilde Sonntag

Opera Singer

Celebrated Wagnerian soprano known for heroic roles in German opera

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Brünhilde German Brynhild Norse Brunhilda Spanish/Portuguese Brunilde Italian Brynhildr Old Norse

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

Brunhilde's cultural significance spans mythology, literature, and history, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. In Germanic and Norse traditions, she appears as Brynhildr in the Volsunga Saga and as Brunhild in the Nibelungenlied—a Valkyrie punished by Odin for disobedience, forced to sleep within a ring of fire until rescued by a hero. This mythological foundation establishes her as a figure of immense power, wisdom, and tragic romance. The historical Brunhilda of Austrasia (c. 543–613) brought the name into recorded history as a Visigothic princess who married into Frankish royalty and became one of the most powerful women of her era, ruling as regent through multiple generations. Richard Wagner's 19th-century operatic interpretation in 'Der Ring des Nibelungen' revived and amplified her cultural presence, transforming Brunhilde into an iconic symbol of feminine strength and tragic heroism that continues to resonate in modern interpretations of Germanic mythology.

Extended Personality Analysis

The name Brunhilde evokes a personality profile of formidable strength, unwavering principles, and natural authority. Those bearing this name are often perceived as possessing iron willpower combined with deep emotional intensity—they don't merely believe in causes, they embody them. There's a characteristic seriousness and depth to Brunhildes, who tend to be strategic thinkers capable of seeing the bigger picture while managing complex details. Their 'dark noble' quality manifests as a certain gravitas and intensity that can be intimidating to some but inspires deep loyalty in others. They are typically highly protective of those they care about, much like the mythological Valkyrie guarding fallen warriors. Despite their strength, Brunhildes often possess a hidden vulnerability and capacity for deep love and sacrifice, as illustrated by the tragic romance in the original legends. They are natural leaders who prefer to earn respect through competence and integrity rather than demand it through position alone.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary naming practices, Brunhilde occupies a unique space as a historically significant but uncommon choice. The name maintains a steady, though limited, presence in German-speaking countries where parents appreciate its mythological depth and cultural heritage. Outside German-speaking regions, it's primarily used by families with strong Germanic roots or those drawn to powerful mythological names. Recent years have seen slight increases in usage, possibly influenced by popular media featuring strong female warriors and renewed interest in Norse mythology. However, the name remains outside mainstream popularity charts, ranking below the top 1000 names in the United States and United Kingdom. Modern Brunhildes often go by nicknames like 'Hilda' or 'Bruni' in everyday contexts, while reserving the full name for formal occasions. The name's continued usage reflects a growing appreciation for historically significant names that challenge conventional gender expectations.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Brunhilde represents the convergence of multiple powerful archetypes: the warrior, the protector, the noble leader, and the tragic heroine. Her name literally means 'battle armor,' symbolizing both physical protection and emotional resilience. The Valkyrie association adds layers of meaning around fate, choice, and the bridge between mortal and divine realms. Brunhilde symbolizes the woman who operates in traditionally masculine spheres of power while retaining distinctly feminine qualities of intuition and emotional depth. The 'dark' element represents not evil, but rather the shadow aspects of power—the difficult decisions, moral complexities, and personal sacrifices that come with true leadership. Her mythological sleep within a ring of fire symbolizes both punishment and purification, suggesting that true strength often emerges from periods of trial and isolation. Ultimately, Brunhilde embodies the idea that feminine power, when fully realized, can challenge even divine authority and reshape destinies.

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