Heinrich (given name)
Heinrich is a German masculine given name. It is cognate with Henry, derived from the Old High German name "Haimirich", composed of the elements "haim" meaning "home" or "estate" and "ric" meaning "power, ruler". Therefore, the name Heinrich can be interpreted as "ruler of the home" or "powerful home ruler".
The name has been consistently popular in German-speaking countries for centuries, often associated with royalty and nobility. Various forms of the name exist across different languages, including Henry (English, French), Enrique (Spanish), Enrico (Italian), and Hendrik (Dutch).
Notable people with the given name Heinrich include:
- Heinrich Heine, a German poet.
- Heinrich Himmler, a high-ranking Nazi official.
- Heinrich Hertz, a German physicist.
The name maintains usage in modern times, though its popularity has fluctuated over different periods. It is often chosen for its classic and strong character.