Elmar: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous)".It derives from the Germanic word "*aþalaz / *alða- / *aldaz *maru- > Adalmar / Aldemar".
In Germanic tradition, Elmar holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Germanic culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Elmar
Quick facts about Elmar
Origin
Germanic
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883.
Elmar enjoys international appeal, used in 6 different linguistic and cultural contexts including norwegian, icelandic, swedish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
norwegianicelandicswedishdanishfaroesegerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Elmar
What does the name Elmar mean?
Elmar means "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883.". The name comes from *aþalaz / *alða- / *aldaz *maru- > Adalmar / Aldemar. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Elmar for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Elmar's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Elmar?
Elmar is a germanic name. The name traces back to *aþalaz / *alða- / *aldaz *maru- > Adalmar / Aldemar. From its germanic roots, Elmar spread to become common in norwegian, icelandic, swedish, danish and other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Elmar a boy or girl name?
Elmar is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In germanic tradition, Elmar has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Elmar?
Elmar is pronounced "/ˈɛlmɑːr/". This pronunciation follows de language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Elmar is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in norwegian, icelandic, swedish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Elmar can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Elmar?
Elmar is commonly used as a nickname for Edelmar. Being a shortened version of Edelmar, Elmar offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Edelmar go by Elmar throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In germanic cultures, using Elmar as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Elmar as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Elmar on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Elmar?
Elmar is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Elmar offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Elmar's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Elmar holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Elmar commonly used?
Elmar spans multiple cultures, including norwegian, icelandic, swedish, and 3 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Elmar found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Elmar, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from Old High German name “Athalmar, Adalmar and Aldemar,” composed of two elements: “*aþalaz,” meaning “noble, nobleman, aristocratic, eminent, glorious, excellent” or from “*alða- / *aldaz,” meaning “old, grown-up” plus “*maru-” (famous). The name means “famous noble, of distinguished nobility, of great nobility.” Elimar Klebs (1852–1918) was a German historian of ancient history. He was the brother of Georg Klebs. Elimar was born in Braunsberg (Braniewo), Prussia. He studied in Berlin under Theodor Mommsen and Heinrich von Treitschke, receiving his doctorate in 1876 and his habilitation in 1883." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Elmar into their naming traditions. A child named Elmar will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Elmar is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.