Why is Berlin Called Berlin? – Origin & Meaning

Etymology & History

Berlin's name most likely derives from an old Slavic word — either 'berl' (swamp) or a root related to the Old Polabian word for 'dry land'. The city was founded in the 13th century at the confluence of the Spree and Havel rivers, in territory formerly inhabited by Slavic peoples before Germanic settlement expanded eastward. The bear in Berlin's coat of arms, though popular in heraldry, is a later addition and not the name's actual origin.

Meaning

"possibly 'swamp' or 'dry land'"

Location

Country	Germany
Region	16
Population	3,426,354
Language of origin	Slavic
Type of name	Geographic feature

Etymology & History

Berlin is a pplc located in 16, Germany. With a population of approximately 3,426,354, it is one of many communities whose name tells a story about the region's past.

Understanding why places are named as they are gives us a window into history — the languages spoken, the people honoured, the landscapes encountered and the cultures that shaped the world we live in today. The field of toponymy (the study of place names) reveals that almost every name has a meaning, even when that meaning has been obscured by centuries of linguistic change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Berlin called Berlin?

Berlin's name most likely derives from an old Slavic word — either 'berl' (swamp) or a root related to the Old Polabian word for 'dry land'. The city was founded in the 13th century at the confluence of the Spree and Havel rivers, in territory formerly inhabited by Slavic peoples before Germanic settlement expanded eastward. The bear in Berlin's coat of arms, though popular in heraldry, is a later addition and not the name's actual origin.

What is the linguistic origin of the name Berlin?

The name Berlin has its roots in Slavic.

How old is the name Berlin?

The age of a place name is often difficult to determine precisely. Many names predate written records entirely — they were passed down orally for centuries before being first recorded. In the case of Berlin, the name likely dates from the period of first significant settlement in the area, which may be medieval, colonial or even ancient depending on the region's history.

The Origin of the Name "Berlin"

Etymology & History