Enno

No single certain meaning; possible roots include “sword” and “eagle”.

Enno is a Low German and Frisian boy’s name whose exact meaning is uncertain. It belongs to a family of shortened names associated with Egin-, Ein- or Arn-. Depending on the derivation, it can be linked with “sword” or “eagle”; neither is a definitive translation of every Enno. A short form can have a life of its own. Enno is established as an independent given name, so it need not stand for a longer name such as Eginhard or Einhard. Its East Frisian connection is clearer than any one explanation of its earliest root. In German, say EN-no, with the short e of “bed” and the emphasis at the beginning. The brief opening and rounded o ending give it a soft, unhurried feel. With only four letters, Enno has little visual ornament: the doubled n gives the written name a neat centre. It may appeal especially to someone who likes a compact name with regional character and no grand, elaborate sound.

Etymology: An independent Low German and Frisian short form, associated with names beginning Egin-, Ein- or Arn-. Its exact derivation is not certain.