Greta

girlGreekChristian

Greta is a girl name of Greek, via German and Scandinavian short forms origin, meaning “Pearl”.

MeaningPearl
GenderGirl
OriginGreek, via German and Scandinavian short forms
PronunciationGRET-uh
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inSweden, Germany, Italy, United States

Meaning and origin of Greta

Greta is a short form of Margareta, the German, Swedish and Italian form of Margaret, which comes from the Greek margarites, 'pearl'. It became an independent name in Scandinavia and Germany and was made famous internationally by the Swedish actress Greta Garbo. In recent years it is associated with the climate activist Greta Thunberg and with the film director Greta Gerwig.

Is Greta a religious name?

Greta is mainly a general name; through Margaret it is linked to saints such as Margaret of Antioch and Margaret of Scotland.

How popular is Greta?

Popular in Italy and parts of Europe; rising in the US and UK.

Gifts with the name Greta

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Spellings and variants of Greta

MargaretaGreteGretchenMargaret

Names similar to Greta

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Greta mean?

Greta means 'Pearl'. It is of Greek, via German and Scandinavian short forms origin.

Does Greta have a religious meaning?

Greta is mainly a general name; through Margaret it is linked to saints such as Margaret of Antioch and Margaret of Scotland.

How do you pronounce Greta?

Greta is pronounced GRET-uh.

Is Greta a boy or girl name?

Greta is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.