Swedish Names for Girls

  1. Britta
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian, variation of Birgit or Britt
    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"
    • Description:

      If you want a pan-Scandinavian name with energy and style that could have been a winner, if not for the sound-alike water filtration company Brita.
  2. Britt
    • Origin:

      Swedish, contracted form of Birgit
    • Meaning:

      "high goddess"
    • Description:

      Brisk but rather brittle. Britt Eklund was a Bond Girl in the 1974 The Man with the Golden Gun. Britt is a contracted form of Birgit, but be aware that it does come with the strong possibility of being confused with Bret/Brett—or as a shortening of Brittany.
  3. Brigitta
    • Description:

      Brigitta is a feminine name with rich historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess.' It's the Central European form of Bridget, particularly popular in Hungarian, German, and Scandinavian cultures. The name is associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints known for her generosity and compassion. Brigitta gained international recognition through characters in literature and film, including Maria's friend in 'The Sound of Music.' While maintaining its classic origins, Brigitta offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Bridget or Brigitte, combining ancient Celtic heritage with continental European elegance.

  4. Moa
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "mother"
    • Description:

      Moa was among the Top 100 Swedish baby names throughout the 2000s and 2010s, though it has since declined in use. Pronounced as MOO-ah in Sweden, it is virtually unknown in the US.
  5. Vilma
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Vilhelmina; a Polish place-name
    • Description:

      Not much to recommend this relative of Wilma; consider Willa or Willow instead.
  6. Yolande
    • Description:

      Yolande is a feminine name of medieval French origin derived from the Germanic elements 'yol' meaning 'viking' or 'valiant' and 'lande' meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gained popularity throughout medieval Europe. The name has royal connections, having been borne by several medieval queens and noblewomen, including Yolande of Aragon in the 15th century. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Yolande has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its elegant, vintage sound and distinctive character. Alternative forms include Yolanda, Iolanthe, and Violante, which evolved in different European languages.
  7. Tindra
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "to twinkle or sparkle"
    • Description:

      Tindra is a new name in Sweden, used only since the 1980s, that has become enormously popular: It's in the Top 100 there. And while unknown in the US, Tindra certainly has possibilities as a substitute for the flagging Kendra.
  8. Gittan
    • Description:

      Gittan is a feminine Swedish name that functions primarily as a diminutive form of Birgitta or Margareta. The name has a warm, friendly quality typical of Swedish nicknaming patterns, which often add '-an' to create affectionate shortened forms. While predominantly used as a nickname in Sweden throughout the 20th century, some women have adopted it as their official given name. Gittan carries a distinctly Scandinavian character that would be quite uncommon outside the Nordic countries. The name has a pleasant rhythm and accessible pronunciation despite its foreign origin. For those with Swedish heritage, Gittan offers a connection to cultural naming traditions while providing a distinctive alternative to more common Scandinavian names like Ingrid or Astrid.
  9. Lovisa
    • Description:

      Lovisa is a Scandinavian feminine name, particularly popular in Sweden, derived from Louise, which ultimately comes from the Germanic name Ludwig, meaning 'famous warrior' or 'renowned fighter.' Despite its martial origins, Lovisa has a gentle, melodic quality that feels both elegant and approachable. The name has deep historical roots in Nordic countries dating back centuries, where it has been borne by several notable figures including Swedish royalty. While not widely used outside Scandinavia, Lovisa offers an appealing option for parents seeking a name with European flair and subtle connection to the more common Louise or Louisa.
  10. Birta
    • Origin:

      Icelandic
    • Meaning:

      "exalted or rescue"
    • Description:

      An Icelandic diminutive of Birgitta turned popular first name there, currently ranking among the Top 30 girl names in Iceland. Parent name Birgitta is either a Nordic variant of Brigitta, from the Irish Brighid "exalted one", or a feminization of the Norse masculine name Birger, meaning "help, rescue".
  11. Marna
    • Description:

      Marna is a concise feminine name with multiple possible origins. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, it may be a variant of Marina or a diminutive of names containing "mar" (sea). It could also derive from the Hebrew name Marnah, meaning "joy" or "rejoicing." In some contexts, it might be connected to the German river Marne or represent a shortened form of Mariana. The name appears in Norse mythology as well, adding to its heritage. Marna has a strong yet feminine quality with its straightforward pronunciation and flowing sound. Though relatively uncommon in most countries, it enjoys some usage in Scandinavian regions and occasionally in English-speaking countries. Its brevity and classic sound give it an understated elegance while remaining distinctive.

  12. Charlotta
    • Origin:

      Swedish variation of Charlotte, French
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      This form of Charlotte, long obscure, is sure to grow in popularity along with the explosion of Charlotte. It's pretty and feminine and a nice spin on the more familiar version. In Germany, short form Lotta is popular.
  13. Miah
    • Origin:

      Swedish variant of Mia
    • Description:

      Made most familiar by Miah Persson, a famous Swedish opera singer.
  14. Vilhelmina
    • Description:

      Vilhelmina is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing the female form of Wilhelm (William). The name combines the Germanic elements 'wil' meaning 'will' or 'desire' and 'helm' meaning 'helmet' or 'protection,' creating a meaning along the lines of 'determined protector.' This elaborate feminine variant has been particularly used in Scandinavian countries, especially Sweden, where it gained prominence through Queen Vilhelmina of the Netherlands. The name also appears in a slightly different form as Wilhelmina in Dutch and German traditions. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Vilhelmina appeals to parents drawn to its distinctive sound, royal connections, and historic European flair. The name offers several natural nicknames, including Vilma, Mina, or Helmi.
  15. Frederika
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Frederick, German
    • Meaning:

      "peaceful ruler"
    • Description:

      Frederika is one of many feminine variations of the many variations of Frederick, which include Frederica, Friederike, and Frederieke. The name carries an air of nobility and elegance, having been used in royal families throughout European history.
  16. Berget
    • Description:

      Berget is a feminine name with Scandinavian origins, primarily found in Norwegian and Swedish communities. It represents a variant of Birgit or Birgitta, which derive from the Old Irish name Brighid, meaning "exalted one" or "high goddess." In Norse contexts, the name connects to Saint Bridget (Birgitta) of Sweden, a 14th-century mystic and founder of the Bridgettine Order. Berget features the characteristic Scandinavian softening of the 'i' to 'e' in pronunciation. While uncommon outside Nordic countries, the name carries a strong cultural heritage and connection to Scandinavian identity. Its traditional sound offers an authentic alternative to more widely-used Nordic names. Berget combines historical depth with a distinctive quality that might appeal to those seeking names with genuine cultural roots.
  17. Gundruna
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "divine wisdom"
    • Description:

      Baby-naming rule #487: it's probably best to avoid names whose only possible nickname is Gun.
  18. Bird
    • Origin:

      Nature name
    • Description:

      We once dismissed Bird as "too flighty", but with the rise of avian names from Lark to Robin to, well, Birdie, we don't see why Bird can't be a fine choice, especially as a middle name.
  19. Antonetta
    • Description:

      Antonetta is a feminine name of Italian origin, serving as an elaborate feminine form of Anthony (Antonio in Italian). Derived from the Roman family name Antonius, it carries the meaning 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy.' This melodious four-syllable name embodies classical Italian charm and elegance. The diminutive suffix '-etta' adds a touch of delicacy and femininity to the strong root name. While popular in Italian communities and families with Italian heritage, Antonetta remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand. The name offers several potential nicknames including Toni, Netta, or Etta. Antonetta conveys a sense of timeless sophistication while honoring Italian cultural traditions, appealing to parents who appreciate names with depth, historical significance, and musical quality.

  20. Mareeba
    • Description:

      Mareeba is a feminine name of Australian Aboriginal origin. It comes from the name of a town in Queensland, Australia, which is believed to derive from an Aboriginal word meaning 'meeting of the waters' or 'place of harmony.' The name carries the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Australian landscape. Mareeba remains quite rare as a given name globally, making it a distinctive choice. Its melodic quality, with flowing vowels and soft consonants, gives it a gentle yet distinctive sound. Parents might choose Mareeba for its unique Australian connection, its meaningful etymology suggesting harmony and natural beauty, or simply for its lyrical sound quality.