US Popularity Rank: 4786

Origin: German

Meaning: Pearl

Gretchen is a girl's given name of German origin. This elegant first name means "pearl" in Latin and is a diminutive of the more widely-known girl's name, Margaret. A pearl is a rare gemstone that forms under the sea and, for centuries, has symbolized the beauty of wisdom gained through experience. No doubt you will want your precious pearl Gretchen to move forward in life, buoyed by the love and wisdom of their childhood.