Anselm

boyGermanicChristian

Anselm is a Christian boy name of Germanic origin, meaning “God's helmet, divine protection”.

MeaningGod's helmet, divine protection
GenderBoy
OriginGermanic
PronunciationAN-selm
TraditionChristian
Used inGermany, United Kingdom, Italy, United States

Meaning and origin of Anselm

Anselm comes from the Germanic elements ans, god, and helm, helmet or protection. It was carried from Lombardy into France and England in the Middle Ages. Saint Anselm of Canterbury, an Italian-born monk who became Archbishop of Canterbury in 1093, is the best-known bearer and is celebrated for his writings on faith and reason, including his ontological argument for the existence of God.

Is Anselm a Christian name?

Anselm is a Christian saint's name. Saint Anselm is a Doctor of the Church in Catholic tradition and is commemorated by Anglicans as well.

How popular is Anselm?

Rare today; used mostly in Catholic families and in German-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Anselm

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Spellings and variants of Anselm

Names similar to Anselm

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Anselm mean?

Anselm means 'God's helmet, divine protection'. It is of Germanic origin.

Is Anselm a Christian name?

Anselm is a Christian saint's name. Saint Anselm is a Doctor of the Church in Catholic tradition and is commemorated by Anglicans as well.

How do you pronounce Anselm?

Anselm is pronounced AN-selm.

Is Anselm a boy or girl name?

Anselm is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.