Inke
Fact sheet
- Name
- Inke
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 2
Inke is a girl's name that serves as a Frisian diminutive for first names that begin with 'Ing-', particularly Ingeborg. Translated, it means 'dedicated to Ingwio', 'protection by Ingwio', or simply 'the protector and helper'. This name is derived from Ingi or Ingwio, the Germanic tribal god who was revered as the patron of the Ingviones as well as the North and North Sea Germans (such as Saxons, Angles, and Frisians).
What does the name Inke mean?
The first name Inke is a Frisian diminutive for names that begin with 'Ing-', especially for Ingeborg. The direct translation of the name is 'dedicated to Ingwio', 'protection by Ingwio', or more freely 'the protector and helper'. Its roots lie in the Old High German term ingi, ingwio, or ingwaz, which is interpreted as 'name of a god' and refers to the Germanic fertility god Ingwio. Ingwio plays a significant role in Germanic mythology and is often regarded as the earlier name of the god Freyr, who is one of the central figures in Norse paganism. Similar variants of the name include Inge, Inga, Inka, Inken, Ineke, Ingke, Insa, Inse, Insea, Ingela, and Ingola.
Where does the name Inke come from?
The name Inke has its roots in Old High German and means 'the protector and helper'.
How do you pronounce Inke?
The pronunciation of Inke is clear and concise. The name is usually pronounced as 'In-ke' [ˈɪŋkə] and begins with a compact, nasal sound. The strong 'k' places a distinct emphasis, while the final 'e' gently opens the sound. Inke thus conveys a direct and unpretentious impression – simple, stable, and with a calm, clear presence.
When is the name day of Inke?
Inke is celebrated on July 30 and October 25.
Popularity
In Germany, Inke is considered a rare name. In 2023, it ranked 5,633rd on the list of the most common female first names. Its best placement was in 2013 at rank 3,816. In the last ten years, Inke has been given as a first name fewer than 10 times, placing it at 11,442nd in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 9,410th.
Nicknames & pet names
Ina / Ink / Inki / Inkie / Pinke / Stinke
Famous people
- Inke van Wyk (hockey player)
Frequently asked questions about the name Inke
What is the origin of the name Inke?
Inke has its roots in Old High German and is a Frisian diminutive of names that begin with 'Ing-', particularly Ingeborg.
What does the name Inke mean?
The name means 'the protector and helper' and refers to the Germanic fertility god Ingwio.
How popular is the name Inke?
Inke is common in several Scandinavian countries as well as in the Frisian region, but has lost popularity in Germany in recent years.