Helmut

Helmut is a masculine given name of German origin. It is formed from the elements helm, meaning “helmet” or protection, and mut, meaning “courage” or “spirit.” Combined, the name is commonly understood as conveying protective strength, with Helmuth as an older variant.

In German-speaking regions the name has been widely used since the early modern period and remained common through the 20th century. It is less common today, but still found in Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland. The name has diminutives and related forms, including Helmi as an affectionate nickname and the longer variant Helmuth.

Notable people named Helmut include Helmut Kohl (1930–2017), German chancellor during reunification; Helmut Schmidt (1918–2015), chancellor and statesman; Helmut Newton (1920–2004), photographer known for fashion and portrait work; Helmut Lang (born 1964), Austrian fashion designer; and Helmut Berger (1944–2023), Austrian actor.

As a given name, Helmut appears in historical and cultural contexts across German-speaking regions, and is often associated with a generation in the 20th century. The name today remains a recognizable but less common choice in many modern naming trends.