Margarethe Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Margarethe
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MARGARETHE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Margarethe
Gender
Female
Origin
Danish
Lucky Number
6
Meaning of the Name
Margarethe is a Danish form of Margaret, derived from the Greek 'margaritēs' meaning 'pearl'. It has been borne by Danish royalty and symbolizes purity and preciousness.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Venus
Positive Nature
Harmonious, responsible, caring, and artistic.
Negative Traits
Overly idealistic, superficial, possessive, or jealous.
Lucky Colours
Pink, turquoise.
Lucky Days
Friday.
Lucky Stones
Diamond, turquoise.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Artists, musicians, teachers, healthcare workers.
What People Like About You
Warmth, nurturing nature, artistic flair.
Famous People Named Margarethe
Margrethe II
Queen of Denmark
Longest-reigning current monarch in Europe, accomplished artist and set designer
Margarethe von Trotta
Film Director
Leading figure in New German Cinema, known for politically engaged feminist films
Margarethe Cammermeyer
Military Officer/Activist
Landmark legal victory for LGBTQ+ rights in the military, portrayed by Glenn Close in TV movie
Margarethe Geiger
Artist
Prominent 19th-century miniature portrait painter in the Austrian Empire
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's cultural significance was revitalized in the 20th century with the birth of the current Queen Margrethe II, whose popular reign has kept the name in public consciousness. Beyond royalty, Margarethe appears in European literature and art as a symbol of feminine virtue and complexity—most famously as Gretchen in Goethe's Faust, where she represents both innocence and profound spiritual transformation. In Danish folk tradition, the name carries connotations of wisdom and steadfastness, qualities associated with both the pearl symbolism and the historical figures who bore the name. The cultural endurance of Margarethe reflects its ability to bridge ancient traditions with contemporary values, making it a name that honors history while remaining relevant in modern Scandinavian society.
Extended Personality Analysis
The name Margarethe evokes a personality profile characterized by grace, intelligence, and quiet strength. Individuals with this name are often perceived as having a natural dignity and poise that commands respect without being ostentatious. Like the pearl from which the name derives, Margarethes are thought to possess layers of depth—outwardly calm and composed, while inwardly complex and thoughtfully processing their experiences. They typically demonstrate excellent judgment and practical wisdom, making them sought-after advisors and reliable friends.
In social settings, Margarethes often exhibit refined tastes and cultural sophistication, with many showing aptitude for the arts, literature, or intellectual pursuits. Their leadership style tends to be collaborative rather than authoritarian, reflecting the Scandinavian values of consensus and community. While they may appear reserved to strangers, those who know them well appreciate their dry wit, loyalty, and capacity for deep emotional connection. The historical weight of the name seems to instill a sense of responsibility and integrity, with Margarethes often taking their commitments seriously and following through on promises. This combination of intelligence, reliability, and subtle charm makes the name Margarethe synonymous with someone who navigates life with both competence and grace.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Margarethe represents a sophisticated choice that balances historical resonance with modern appeal. While not currently ranking among Denmark's most popular baby names, it maintains a steady presence, particularly among families with royalist sympathies or those seeking a name with cultural depth. The reign of Queen Margrethe II has provided continuous visibility for the name, preventing it from becoming dated or obscure. Modern parents often appreciate the name's international versatility—easily recognizable across European languages while maintaining distinct Danish character. Recent years have seen a modest revival of vintage names, positioning Margarethe as an elegant alternative to more common classics. The name's flexibility is enhanced by numerous nickname options including Grethe, Greta, Meta, or Rita, allowing for personalization across different life stages. In professional contexts, the name conveys maturity and credibility, often associated with women in leadership, academic, or cultural fields. Its usage patterns reflect a thoughtful choice by parents valuing tradition, sophistication, and cross-cultural accessibility.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
The symbolic resonance of Margarethe extends far beyond its literal meaning of 'pearl' to encompass rich metaphorical associations across multiple cultural traditions. In Eastern symbolism, pearls represent wisdom gained through life experience—each layer added to the pearl corresponding to lessons learned and personal growth achieved. This connects Margarethe to the concept of continuous self-improvement and the transformation of challenges into strengths. In Western esoteric traditions, pearls symbolize the soul's journey toward perfection, with their luminous quality representing inner light and spiritual purity.
The pearl's formation process—where an irritant becomes the nucleus for something beautiful—parallels the human capacity to transform adversity into achievement, making Margarethe a name associated with resilience and redemption. In Christian iconography, pearls frequently appear as symbols of the Kingdom of Heaven and spiritual truth, while in classical mythology they were associated with love and the moon. The name thus carries connotations of hidden value, patience, and the revelation of inner beauty over time. Like a pearl that requires careful cultivation to reveal its full luster, the name Margarethe suggests potential that unfolds gradually, promising depth, wisdom, and enduring worth that becomes more apparent with acquaintance and time.