Both the German and the Czech name have their origin in Proto-Indo-European ad-ra, meaning "flowing water".

[1] The Wondreb originates in the territory of Stará Voda in the Upper Palatine Forest at an elevation of 732 m (2,402 ft) and until its confluence with the brook Griesbach, it is known as Nikolausbach/Mikulášský potok.

The river further flows through the territories of Mähring, Tirschenreuth, Leonberg, Mitterteich and Waldsassen in Germany, before it forms the Czech-German border for the next 0.7 km (0.4 mi).

A significant body of water built on the Wondreb is Jesenice Reservoir, located in the territory of Cheb.

The main purposes are to ensure minimum flow for industrial enterprises and flood protection.