Danish Names
Danish baby names include many names that are the familiar Danish spins on pan-European names: consider Frederik and Kristen. And then there are the Danish names not usually found outside Copenhagen and environs, such as Bendt (the Danish form of Benedict) or Jesper (an intriguing spin on Jasper).
A small country connected to the European mainland and separated by water from the other Scandinavian lands, Denmark has its own distinct culture including names.
If your family has Danish roots or you have other reasons you're seeking a Danish name for your baby, our complete collection of Danish names for girls and boys is here, ordered by popularity on Nameberry.
RELATED:
- Soren
Origin:
Danish, NorwegianMeaning:
"stern"Description:
This gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, is being discovered in a major way by parents in the US. It's most closely identified with the nineteenth century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, but there have been modern fictional Sorens as well, in The Matrix Reloaded and the book series Guardians of Ga'Hoole, Charlie and Lola, and Underworld.
- Hugo
Origin:
Latinized form of HughMeaning:
"mind, intellect"Description:
Hugo, the Latin form of Hugh, has more heft and energy than the original -- and of course we love names that end (or begin, for that matter) with an o. This one is especially appealing because it's backed up by lots of solid history and European style.
- Karen
Origin:
Danish variation of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Karen is a Danish diminutive of Katherine, an English name derived from the Greek Aikaterine. The etymology of Aikaterine is contested, but generally considered to have arisen from the Greek root katharos, meaning "pure." Kaja is a related name, as it is another Danish variation of Katherine.
- Jensen
Origin:
Spelling variation of Jenson and Danish surnameMeaning:
"son of Jens"Description:
A variation of Jenson, which is actually more popular than the original in the United States. This spelling also holds the distinction of being the most common surname in Denmark.
- Juni
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"June"Description:
Juni is the Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of the month name June. While Juni feels cute and fresh, most Americans would assume it was a nickname or a Joni variation. We prefer Juna or the English June.
- Iver
Origin:
Norwegian variant of IvarMeaning:
"yew wood, archer, warrior"Description:
Iver is a popular name in its native Norway, but parents in the U.S. are starting to take note of this rugged yet gentle name. Stemming from the original Norse name Ívarr, it is part of a small group of names with similar roots: Ivar, Ivor, Ivo, Ives, and Evander. It was brought to England by Scandinavian settlers in the Middle Ages, and to the US by in the 19th century.
- Jesper
Description:
Jesper is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, particularly popular in Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands. It developed as a variation of the name Jasper, which derives from Persian meaning "treasurer" or "keeper of the treasure." In Nordic countries, Jesper has maintained steady popularity for generations, appreciated for its strong yet approachable sound. The name combines traditional roots with a modern feel, making it increasingly recognized internationally. While still uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jesper has gained modest recognition through literary characters, sports figures, and cultural exchange. It offers parents a distinctive yet accessible option that works well across multiple languages and cultures.
- Sören
Origin:
Swedish, German, variation of SeverusDescription:
A gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, but with more masculine punch than Loren.
- Adolf
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"noble wolf"Description:
Adolf may have been a Swedish royal name but the terrible dictatorship of Adolf Hitler has ruled out this name Adolf for any sensible parent. In the US last year, there were more than 100 boys' given the Spanish variation Adolfo and a handful given the old school Adolphus, but none named Adolf or Adolph....thank goodness.
- Derrick
Origin:
Spelling variation of Derek, English from German form of Theodoric,"the people's ruler"Meaning:
"the people's ruler"Description:
Derek is one of those names that, in its heyday, spawned lots of variations, all trendy. Last year, about 300 baby boys were named Derrick and about 1350 were named Derek.
- Kristen
Origin:
Danish and Norwegian variation of ChristineMeaning:
"a Christian"Description:
Kristen may be somewhat past its fashion high point, but it remains forever crystalline clear. Possible problem: confusion with the similar Scandinavian names Kristin, Kirsten, Kirstie, et al.
- Lise
Origin:
Diminutive of Elisabeth, HebrewMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Lise is most often found in the U.S. as the second half of the hybrid name Annalise. Canadian journalist Lyse Doucet bears a pretty alternative spelling, pronounced LEESE.
- Niels
Origin:
Danish variation of Nicholas; Dutch diminutive of CorneliusDescription:
Gives middle-aged Neil a new lease on life.
- Mads
Origin:
Danish variation of MatthewMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Mads is a perennial favorite in Germany, the Nordic countries, and the Netherlands, where it is usually to be found in the Top 50. Just remember the D is not pronounced. Famous bearers include Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, the villain of the Bond film "Casino Royale".
- Kaj
Origin:
DanishMeaning:
"earth"Description:
Kaj is a name that looks great on paper, but while it's pronounced with to rhyme with rye, it is sure to be pronounced by most people to rhyme with "raj" or, much worse, "Madge".
- Petrina
Description:
Petrina is a feminine name with classical roots, derived from the Latin name Petrus, meaning "rock" or "stone." It's essentially the feminine form of Peter, carrying connotations of strength and steadfastness. The name appears across several European cultures, including Italian, Croatian, and Greek traditions, with slight pronunciation variations. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Petrina has maintained steady usage, particularly in Southern and Eastern European communities. The name has an elegant, somewhat Old World charm with its melodic three syllables and classical origins. Petrina offers parents a distinctive choice that still feels accessible and pronounceable. It provides a more uncommon alternative to the popular Patricia while sharing similar classical roots and a sophisticated sound that works well across different ages.
- Vibeke
Description:
Vibeke is a feminine Scandinavian name particularly popular in Norway and Denmark. It derives from the Old Norse name Vibeka, which combines 'vi' (sacred) and 'beka' (protection), essentially meaning 'sacred protector' or 'woman of sanctuary.' The name gained prominence in Scandinavia during the medieval period and remains moderately common there today. Outside Nordic countries, Vibeke is considered quite exotic. It's typically pronounced 'VEE-beh-keh' with emphasis on the first syllable. The name carries connotations of strength, spirituality, and guardianship within Scandinavian culture, reflecting ancient Norse values of protection and sacred duty.
- Svend
Description:
Svend is a masculine Scandinavian name, particularly common in Denmark and Norway. It derives from the Old Norse name Sveinn, meaning "young man" or "boy." Historically, it was borne by several Danish kings, including Svend Forkbeard who ruled Denmark in the late 10th century. The name carries strong Nordic heritage and projects qualities of strength and leadership due to its royal associations. While remaining consistently popular in Scandinavia, Svend is relatively uncommon outside those regions, giving it a distinctive character for international use. Its short, strong sound with the distinctive Scandinavian 'v' makes it both distinctive and accessible, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and cultural significance.
- Frantz
Description:
Frantz is a masculine name of French and German origin, representing a variant spelling of Franz, which itself is the German form of Francis. The name ultimately derives from the Latin 'Franciscus,' meaning 'Frenchman' or 'free one.' Frantz gained some recognition through notable bearers like Frantz Fanon, the influential philosopher and writer. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while still being approachable in pronunciation. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it has maintained steady usage in French-speaking regions and parts of Europe. Frantz offers an interesting alternative to more common names like Frank or Francis, providing distinctive character while still honoring traditional naming patterns. Its strong consonant ending gives it a bold, decisive sound.
- Clemens
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"merciful and gentle"Description:
This surname related to Clement is strongly associated with Major League pitcher Roger Clemens, winner of more Cy Young awards than any other pitcher in baseball history, and has a softer sound than Clement. Some variations are Clemen, Clementio, Clemention, and Clemons.