Ruprecht

Ruprecht is a German form of the ancient Germanic name composed of the elements hrod, meaning fame or glory, and beraht, meaning bright or shining, giving the overall sense of bright fame. It is the archaic German equivalent of Robert and shares its roots with Rupert, which became the more widely used modern form. The name was borne by several notable figures in the Holy Roman Empire, including Ruprecht of the Palatinate, who ruled as King of Germany in the early fifteenth century. In German folklore, Ruprecht is also associated with Knecht Ruprecht, a companion figure to Saint Nicholas in Christmas tradition.