Wolfgang

boyOld High GermanChristian

Wolfgang is an boy name of Old High German origin, meaning “Path of the wolf”.

MeaningPath of the wolf
GenderBoy
OriginOld High German
PronunciationVOLF-gahng
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inGermany, Austria, Switzerland

Meaning and origin of Wolfgang

Wolfgang combines the Old High German wolf with gang, 'path, going', so it is usually understood as 'wolf's path' or 'travelling wolf'. It was carried by Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg, a tenth-century bishop who did much to spread it in southern Germany and Austria. The name is inseparable from the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe also carried it.

Is Wolfgang a religious name?

Wolfgang is a Germanic name of pre-Christian style, not biblical, but it gained Christian standing through Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg.

How popular is Wolfgang?

Common among German and Austrian men of older generations and unusual for babies today.

Gifts with the name Wolfgang

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Spellings and variants of Wolfgang

Wolf

Names similar to Wolfgang

WolframKonradFriedrichLudwig

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Wolfgang mean?

Wolfgang means 'Path of the wolf'. It is of Old High German origin.

Does Wolfgang have a religious meaning?

Wolfgang is a Germanic name of pre-Christian style, not biblical, but it gained Christian standing through Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg.

How do you pronounce Wolfgang?

Wolfgang is pronounced VOLF-gahng.

Is Wolfgang a boy or girl name?

Wolfgang is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.