If you appreciate tradition or simply the charm of the past, you might be thinking about choosing an Amish name for your newborn. But what defines an Amish name? These names often have roots in German or Biblical origins, and names found in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, tend to be favored in Amish communities. Although around 63% of the Amish population resides in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, they can be found in up to 31 states. Most Amish groups speak either English or German, which explains the prevalence of German names.
While opting for Biblical or German names may initially seem limiting, there is a vast array of options available. We’ve compiled a diverse selection of Amish names that represents just a fraction of what’s out there.
Among our favorite Amish names for girls is Sarah. Once a widespread name outside of the Amish community, its popularity has waned since the late 80s. In Biblical accounts, Sarah is the wife of Abraham and regarded as a prophetess. Her story resonates with many, especially those who have faced challenges with infertility. According to the narrative, Sarah laughed when a prophet foretold that she would bear a son at an advanced age, and a year later, Isaac was born. Her resilience and perseverance make her a revered figure across various religions. Incidentally, Isaac, which means “laughter,” is also included in our list.
For boys, we particularly like the name Ezekiel. This name carries significant weight, but you can affectionately shorten it to “Zeek.” Ezekiel means “God’s strength” and is recognized as a prophet in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. His story includes prophesizing the destruction of Jerusalem, as well as the tale of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, which you might already be familiar with if you’re exploring Amish names.
Not every name in our compilation feels overtly Biblical. Names like Benjamin, Caleb, Amity, and Ivy strike a modern tone and are also quite popular outside the Amish community. Others such as Amos, Collin, Eleanor, Leah, Noah, Penelope, and Seth are widely used across the country. If you’re in search of a name that connects the contemporary world with Amish heritage, you’ll find plenty of options in our list.
Amish Boys’ Names:
- Aaron: Hebrew for exalted or strong; can also mean teacher or mountain of strength.
- Abel: Means breath or vapor.
- Abraham: Translates to “father of a multitude.”
- Albrecht: Germanic name meaning noble, bright, or famous.
- Amos: Hebrew for “to carry” or “borne by God.”
- Aquilla: Latin for eagle.
- Benjamin: Derived from Binyamin, meaning “son of the right hand.”
- Caleb, Collin, Daniel, David, Elijah, Elmo, Ezekiel, Ezra, Gabriel, Hannes, Iddo, Isaac, Isaiah, Jacob, James, Jethro, Jeremiah, John, Jonah, Joseph, Joshua, Josiah, Levi, Leander, Leonard, Matthew, Melbern, Noah, Paul, Peter, Seth, Simon, Solomon, Thomas, Timothy, Uri, Wayne, Wollie.
Amish Girls’ Names:
- Amity
- Anke
- Anna
- Charity
- Collette
- Dinah
- Eleanor
- Elizabeth
- Esther
- Eva
- Faith
- Fannie
- Greta
- Hadassah
- Hannah
- Iris
- Ivy
- Jacqueline
- Jane
- Joyce
- Justine
- Leah
- Louisa
- Martha
- Mary
- Mercy
- Naomi
- Patience
- Penelope
- Rachel
- Rebecca
- Ruth
- Sarah
- Serenity
- Susanna
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Summary:
This article provides a rich collection of over 75 Amish baby names, both traditional and unique, rooted in Biblical and German origins. Names like Sarah and Ezekiel highlight the depth of meaning behind these choices, while more contemporary options bridge the gap between modernity and tradition. Explore these names to find the perfect fit for your little one.