Höde

Höde is a toponym that refers to several small villages and hamlets in Germany. The name is typically applied to rural settlements and is found in multiple federal states where local history and land use are closely tied to agriculture and forestry.

The toponym likely derives from Old High German hoda or hode, meaning heath or open land, reflecting historical land cover at the site of the settlements.

Höde localities are usually situated on the edge of heathland, woodland, or agricultural land. Administratively they are commonly units within a larger municipality (Ortsteil) and have limited independent governance; local facilities are shared with the parent community.

Most Höde settlements date to the medieval period, arising from farming communities or as offerings to local chapels or lords. During the 19th and 20th centuries, several were incorporated into larger municipalities during territorial reforms.

Population varies from a few dozen to a few hundred residents. The economy is traditionally agricultural; today many residents commute to nearby towns. Cultural life often centers on a village church, a volunteer fire brigade, and seasonal festivals.

Because the name is common, Höde can refer to more than one place; readers are advised to seek the specific locality if needed. For disambiguation, consult regional gazetteers.