Origin and Meaning of Elfriede

Meaning & Origin

Elf strength or noble strength

Origin: German - Elfriede is derived from the Old High German elements 'alv' meaning 'elf' and 'frid', meaning 'peace' or 'strength'.

Interesting Facts

  • Elfriede is a traditional German name that was particularly popular in Germany and Austria, especially around the early to mid-20th century.
  • In German culture, Elfriede is often associated with strong historical roots and has been borne by notable figures in German literature and arts.
  • Notable bearers include Elfriede Jelinek, an Austrian playwright and novelist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2004.
  • The name saw a decline in popularity after the 1960s, as many traditional names fell out of favor in favor of modern alternatives.
  • Variations of Elfriede can be found, such as Elfrida, which is used in Scandinavian countries and means 'elf strength' as well.