Dieter

Dieter is a masculine given name of German origin. It is most common in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and has spread to other regions through migration. In many cases it serves as a diminutive form of longer names such as Dieterich, Dietrich, or Theodoric, though it has long been used as an independent given name as well.

Its roots lie in Germanic elements diot- or theod- meaning “people” or “nation” and ric or ri(h) meaning “ruler” or “power.” Related names include Dietrich, Theodoric, and Theodor. The form Dieter is widely recognized as a traditional German given name dating to medieval times.

Notable people named Dieter include designer Dieter Rams (born 1932), musician and producer Dieter Bohlen (born 1954), comedian and actor Dieter Hallervorden (born 1935), comedian and writer Dieter Nuhr (born 1964), businessman Dieter Schwarz (born 1939), film director Dieter Wedel (1939–2022), and film festival director Dieter Kosslick (born 1948).