Gerlinde is a German and Dutch feminine given name. It is derived from the Old German elements ger meaning "spear" and lind meaning "soft, flexible, tender", thus carrying the poetic meaning of "tender spear". This combination of martial strength (spear) and gentleness (soft) makes it a typical example of a Germanic dithematic name, blending two contrasting virtues aimed at bestowing a powerful yet kind nature upon the bearer. Though not among the most common names today, Gerlinde has been used consistently in German-speaking countries. Notable for its feminine suffix "-linde" (related to the linden tree), the name has also found its way into astronomy: the asteroid 663 Gerlinde, discovered in 1908, is named after the name. This connection highlights the practice of giving feminine names to minor planets, a tradition that brings names like Gerlinde into a more universal context. A related variant is Gerlind, an earlier Germanic form that lacks the softening diminutive suffix. The overlapping elements ger and lind are common in other Germanic names such as Gertrude (ger + þrūþ "strength") and Lindsey (derived from lind). Meaning: "Spear" + "Soft, flexible, tender" Origin: Old Germanic Type: Feminine given name Usage regions: German, Dutch