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 Katherine, JapaneseMeaning:
"pure; lotus flower"Description:
Karen, a once sweet Danish import, was so popular during the baby boom (Karen was Number 3 in 1960) that it's become a mem in recent years, representing a hostile white woman—one who usually wants to speak with the manager.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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".
- 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.
- Sören
Origin:
Swedish, German, variation of SeverusDescription:
A gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, but with more masculine punch than Loren.
- 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.
- 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.
- Hamlet
Origin:
Anglicized form of Danish, AmlethDescription:
The "To Be or Not to Be" jokes, via Shakespeare's tortured prince, will get old by Month Two.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bente
Origin:
Danish feminine form of BenedictMeaning:
"blessed"Description:
Bente, pronounced ben-tah, is a popular girls' name in both The Netherlands and Denmark though largely unknown in the English-speaking world. It suffers by being a near-homonym of the English word bent, not the best dictionary equivalent for a first name. Still, if you're looking for a girls' name that equates to Ben or Benjamin or Benedict, this may be one of your best bets.
- Henning
Description:
Henning is a masculine name with Scandinavian and Germanic origins, particularly popular in Denmark, Norway, and northern Germany. It likely developed as a diminutive of Heinrich (Henry), derived from Germanic elements meaning 'home ruler.' With a history dating back to medieval times, Henning has maintained steady usage in Nordic countries while remaining uncommon in English-speaking regions. The name has a strong, crisp sound with its double 'n' and straightforward pronunciation. Notable bearers include various Scandinavian athletes, authors, and historical figures. Henning conveys a sense of reliability and Nordic heritage, appealing to parents looking for a name with cultural roots and a distinctive yet accessible quality.
- Jone
Description:
Jone is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. It can be viewed as a variant spelling of Joan, which derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious.' In Basque culture, Jone is a distinct female name pronounced 'HO-neh' and is associated with the moon. The name also appears occasionally as a variation of Joni or as a simplified form of Joanne. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jone has seen modest usage historically. Its simplicity gives it a clean, modern appeal despite its ancient roots. The name's cross-cultural presence means it can function well internationally, being easily pronounced in various languages. Jone offers a streamlined alternative to more common variants like Joan or Joanna while maintaining their graceful qualities and historical significance.
- Silje
Origin:
DanishMeaning:
"variation of Celia"Description:
This Danish variation of Celia / Cecilia is quite popular in Denmark in recent years.
- 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.
- Kristian
Origin:
Danish, Albanian, Breton, Bulgarian, Danish, Estonian, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish variation of ChristianDescription:
Variation of Christian.
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