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Danish Names for Boys

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Sep 24 2019
  1. Soren

    • Origin:

      Danish, Norwegian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. Hugo

    • Origin:

      Latinized form of Hugh

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Jensen

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Jenson and Danish surname

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  4. Iver

    • Origin:

      Norwegian variant of Ivar

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  5. Adolf

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Sören

    • Origin:

      Swedish, German, variation of Severus

    • Description:

      A gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, but with more masculine punch than Loren.
  7. Mads

    • Origin:

      Danish variation of Matthew

    • Meaning:

      "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".
  8. 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.

  9. 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.
  10. Niels

    • Origin:

      Danish variation of Nicholas; Dutch diminutive of Cornelius

    • Description:

      Gives middle-aged Neil a new lease on life.
  11. Kaj

    • Origin:

      Danish

    • Meaning:

      "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".
  12. Ib

    • Origin:

      Danish, diminutive of Jacob

    • Description:

      Ib, though it sounds insubstantial here, is actually a pretty common name in Denmark.
  13. 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.

  14. Ibsen

    • Origin:

      Danish

    • Meaning:

      "son of Ib"

    • Description:

      Ibsen is a literary hero name possibility, after the great Norwegian dramatist, Henrik I. The name Ib is a short form of Jacob, so you might consider Ibsen as an honorific for or a twin of a Jacob.
  15. Hamlet

    • Origin:

      Anglicized form of Danish, Amleth

    • Description:

      The "To Be or Not to Be" jokes, via Shakespeare's tortured prince, will get old by Month Two.
  16. Bendt

    • Description:

      Bendt is a masculine name with Scandinavian origins, particularly common in Denmark. It represents a Nordic variant of Benedict, which derives from Latin 'benedictus' meaning 'blessed.' The name has been used in Denmark since medieval times and continues to maintain modest popularity in Scandinavian countries. The distinctive spelling with the 'dt' ending gives it an authentic Nordic character that sets it apart from more common variants like Bent or Bengt. While rare outside of Scandinavian communities, Bendt offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with European heritage and meaningful religious undertones. Its brevity makes it practical while the unusual consonant combination gives it a memorable quality.
  17. Diederik

    • Description:

      Diederik is a masculine Dutch name derived from the Germanic elements 'theud' meaning 'people' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power.' Essentially, it translates to 'ruler of the people' or 'powerful among the people.' This name has historical significance in the Netherlands and other Germanic regions, with variations including Dirk (a common Dutch short form), Dietrich (German), and Derek (English). Diederik has been borne by several notable Dutch figures throughout history, including politicians and artists. While not extremely common in modern times, it maintains a steady presence in Dutch-speaking areas, appreciated for its strong meaning and cultural heritage. Parents choosing this name often value its traditional roots and powerful connotation.
  18. 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.
  19. Derk

    • Description:

      Derk is a masculine name of Dutch and Germanic origins, functioning as a variation of Derek or Dirk. These names ultimately derive from the Germanic name Theodoric, meaning "ruler of the people" or "people's ruler." Popular in the Netherlands and parts of northern Europe, Derk has a strong, concise sound that follows Dutch naming traditions of short, impactful names. While less common than Derek or Dirk in English-speaking countries, Derk maintains steady usage in Dutch-speaking regions. The name carries connotations of leadership and strength while offering a slightly distinctive spelling for parents seeking traditional names with character. Its simplicity and cross-cultural recognition make it accessible internationally while still preserving its Dutch heritage.

  20. Henerik

    • Description:

      Henerik is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Henrik or Heinrich, names of Germanic origin meaning 'ruler of the home' or 'home ruler.' This specific spelling variation might reflect regional differences in pronunciation or represent a creative adaptation of the traditional forms. The name has deep historical roots throughout Europe, with numerous kings, princes, and nobles bearing variants of this name across Scandinavian, Germanic, and Eastern European countries. While this particular spelling is uncommon, the traditional forms have maintained steady popularity, especially in Nordic and Germanic countries. Henerik carries the same dignified, strong qualities as its more common variants while offering a distinctive spelling that sets it apart.