Origin and Meaning of Elke
Meaning & Origin
Noble or Of noble birth
Origin: German - Elke is derived from the Old High German name 'Alhilda', which combines 'adal' meaning 'noble' and 'hild' meaning 'battle'.
Interesting Facts
- Elke is a popular name in Germany and has roots in the medieval period, where it was often used as a nickname for names that included 'adel' (meaning nobility).
- In addition to German-speaking countries, Elke is also found in the Netherlands and Austria, reflecting its Teutonic origins.
- Notable bearers include Elke Sommer, a German actress and model known for her work in the entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1970s.
- The name Elke has seen fluctuations in popularity; it was particularly popular in the mid-20th century, especially in Germany.
- Variations of the name include Ilka and Elk, with similar names like Alice also sharing the noble meaning.