All about the name

Heidi

Male

« Heidi is a Germanic name derived from "heide," meaning "noble" or "high." It gained global popularity through Johanna Spyri's novel "Heidi," set in the Swiss Alps. »

#9298 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Heidi is a name of German origin, derived from the word "heide", which means "noble" or "high". It is also associated with the beautiful landscapes of Germany, particularly the heathlands and mountains that are characteristic of the country's countryside. The name Heidi gained popularity in the English-speaking world thanks to the children's novel "Heidi", written by Swiss author Johanna Spyri. Published in 1880, the story tells the tale of a young girl named Heidi who is orphaned as an infant and goes to live with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. The book was adapted into several films and television shows, further popularizing the name. Heidi has been used as a given name for girls since the Middle Ages in Germany, but it became more widespread after the publication of Spyri's novel. Today, Heidi is considered a classic yet timeless name, often chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and meaning. Some notable figures with the name Heidi include American actress Heidi Klum, German Chancellor Angela Merkel (born Angela Dorothea Akrike Heidi Kasner), and Swiss tennis player Heidi Widmer. Despite their achievements in different fields, they all share a connection through their given name, which embodies the spirit of nobility and beauty that is inherently linked to its origins.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Heidi since 1880

Total births
361
Total since 1880
Peak year
1979
22 births
in 1993
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years