Gretel
Little Girl, Pet Name
Pronunciation: GREH-tel (/ˈɡrɛtəl/)
What does Gretel mean?
The name Gretel originated from the German language as a pet name or diminutive for Margaret or Greta, meaning 'pearl'. In folklore, Gretel is famously known as the protagonist in the fairy tale 'Hansel and Gretel' where she and her brother Hansel are abandoned in the woods and encounter a wicked witch.
Gretel in other languages & scripts
How to pronounce Gretel
Numerology & personality
People with the name Gretel are nurturing, loving, and caring. They have a strong sense of responsibility and are natural caretakers. Gretels have a deep inner desire for beauty, harmony, and balance in their lives, which often leads them to pursue artistic or healing professions.
Spiritual & cultural context
Symbolizes innocence, resilience, and the power of faith.
Gretel has its roots in German folklore and culture, and was popularized through the Brothers Grimm's fairy tale of the same name. As a character in the tale, Gretel embodies courage and resourcefulness, as she takes charge in rescuing her brother Hansel and their family from the malevolent witch. The story has left a lasting impact on German and European cultural narratives and has been adapted into various forms of media, from films and TV shows to ballets and operas.
Popularity of Gretel by region
| Region | Country | Score | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | UK | 60 | 2024 |
| Poland | PL | 35 | 2024 |
| Italy | IT | 49 | 2024 |