Origin and Meaning of Werner

Meaning & Origin

Defender of the army

Origin: German - Derived from the Old High German name Wernher, which combines the elements 'wer' meaning 'man' and 'heri' meaning 'army'.

Interesting Facts

  • Werner is a traditional German name often associated with nobility and chivalry, reflecting a warrior-like heritage.
  • The name is popular in German-speaking countries, as well as in regions influenced by German culture.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Werner Herzog, a renowned German film director, and Werner von Siemens, a pioneering inventor and industrialist.
  • In terms of popularity, Werner saw its peak in the early to mid-20th century in Germany but has become less common in recent decades.
  • Variations of the name include Verner (Scandinavian) and the feminine form Wernhilde, though these are far less common.