Gretel Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Gretel
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name GRETEL. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Gretel
Gender
Male
Origin
German
Lucky Number
4
Meaning of the Name
Gretel is a German name meaning 'pearl' and serves as a diminutive form of Margaret. While traditionally feminine, the name carries connotations of value, purity, and hidden beauty derived from its pearl meaning.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Uranus (Rahu)
Positive Nature
Strong sense of order, loyal, practical, and disciplined.
Negative Traits
Stubborn, overly serious, rigid, and prone to feeling restricted.
Lucky Colours
Blue, gray.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire.
Harmony Numbers
1, 7, 8.
Best Suited Professions
Managers, engineers, accountants, organizers.
What People Like About You
Dependability, discipline, practicality.
Famous People Named Gretel
Gretel Bergmann
Athlete
German high jumper who held national record before being excluded from 1936 Olympics for being Jewish
Gretel Adorno
Sociologist
German sociologist and wife of philosopher Theodor Adorno, collaborated on his work
Gretel Ehrlich
Writer
American writer known for nature writing and essays about Wyoming landscapes
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Historically, the name was particularly popular in German-speaking regions during the 19th and early 20th centuries, often given to honor Saint Margaret while using the more affectionate diminutive form. The name's cultural resonance extends beyond Germany through immigration and cultural exchange, maintaining its folkloric connections while adapting to contemporary contexts. In modern interpretations, Gretel often symbolizes the journey from innocence to experience and the development of personal agency.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Gretel are often perceived as intelligent, resourceful, and practical, reflecting the characteristics of the fairy tale heroine. They tend to be quick-thinking problem-solvers who maintain composure in challenging situations. Typically, Gretels demonstrate strong observational skills and the ability to assess circumstances accurately before taking action. They often possess a blend of traditional values with modern adaptability, showing loyalty to family while maintaining independence.
Many exhibit creative problem-solving abilities and a quiet determination that serves them well in both personal and professional contexts. Their personality often combines warmth with practicality, making them reliable friends and colleagues who can be counted on in difficult situations. While they may appear reserved initially, Gretels typically reveal depth of character and resilience upon closer acquaintance. They tend to approach life with a mixture of caution and curiosity, learning from experiences and applying those lessons to future challenges.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Gretel remains primarily used in German-speaking countries, though it has gained some international recognition through cultural exports. The name has experienced fluctuating popularity, with recent years showing a modest revival as parents seek traditional yet distinctive names. While still uncommon in English-speaking countries, it appears occasionally among families with German heritage or those appreciating its fairy tale connections. Modern usage often embraces the name's strong, intelligent connotations from the Brothers Grimm story, with some parents choosing it specifically for its association with a resourceful female character. The name maintains a classic feel while avoiding being overly common in most regions, appealing to those seeking names with historical depth and cultural significance.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Gretel represents intelligence, survival, and the triumph of cleverness over brute strength. The name evokes imagery of navigation through difficult circumstances, much like the breadcrumb trail in the fairy tale. It symbolizes the value of practical wisdom and the importance of paying attention to one's surroundings. As a derivative of Margaret meaning 'pearl,' it also carries connotations of hidden beauty and value that must be discovered and cultivated. The name suggests transformation—from vulnerability to strength, from being lost to finding one's way. It represents the journey of self-discovery and the development of inner resources to overcome external challenges, making it a powerful symbolic name for personal growth and resilience.