vorname

Vorname, in English usually translated as given name or forename, is the personal name used to identify a person in daily life, distinct from the family name (surname). It is typically chosen by the parents and used together with the surname throughout life.

Origin and usage: The term derives from German vor- “before” and Name; it denotes the name placed before the family name in full names. The concept is parallel to forenames or given names in many languages, which identify the bearer in everyday address rather than family relations.

Usage and legal context: Forenames are usually chosen by parents at birth and registered in civil records. In many jurisdictions naming rules aim to ensure the name is usable, not misleading, and respectful of cultural norms. In Germany, the civil registry oversees given names; multiple forenames may be used, with the commonly used form in everyday life often called the Rufname.

Cross-cultural patterns: In most Western societies the Vorname appears before the surname; elsewhere the order may differ, and multiple given names are common. Some cultures employ patronymics or era-specific naming customs; names may reflect language, religion, ancestry, or personal preference.

Examples and trends: Common German Vorname examples include Anna, Maria, Johannes, and Maximilian; internationally popular names such as Noah and Emma reflect modern globalization. The choice of given names can reveal cultural influences, religious heritage, and shifts in fashion over time.

See also and related terms: Forename, given name, personal name, and surname are related concepts in naming systems.