Ole

Norse
"ancestor's relic"

Ole Origin and Meaning

The name Ole is a boy's name of Norwegian origin.

Ole is a masculine name with strong Scandinavian roots, functioning as the Danish and Norwegian form of Olaf. Derived from the Old Norse name Óláfr, comprised of 'anu' meaning 'ancestor' and 'leifr' meaning 'heir' or 'descendant.' Traditionally pronounced 'OH-leh' in Scandinavian countries, the name has gained different pronunciations in other regions. Ole has maintained steady popularity in Norway, Denmark, and parts of northern Germany, while in the United States it has historically been associated with Scandinavian-American communities, particularly in the Upper Midwest. The name carries connotations of heritage and tradition while remaining simple and accessible. Ole's compact form gives it a friendly, approachable quality while still honoring Nordic naming traditions and cultural connections.

# 993 in the US

Ole Rank in US Top 1000

Popularity of the name Ole

20 Names Similar to Ole

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Famous People Named Ole

  • Ole Einar Bjørndalen
    Norwegian Olympic biathlete
  • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
    Norwegian footballer
  • Ole Anderson
    American wrestler
  • Ole Barman
    Norwegian novelist
  • Ole Barndorff
    Nielsen, Danish mathematician
  • Ole Bornedal
    Danish film director
  • Ole Kirk Christiansen
    Danish creator of Lego
  • Ole Ernst
    Danish actor
  • Ole Espersen
    Danish former minister of justice
  • Ole Evinrude
    Norwegian,American outboard motor manufacturer
  • Ole Lund Kirkegaard
    Danish children's author
  • Ole Monty
    Danish actor
  • Ole Nydahl
    Danish Buddhist lama
  • Ole Olsen
    Danish film director
  • Ole Olsen
    Danish motorcycle racer
  • Ole Qvist
    Danish footballer
  • Ole Ritter
    Danish racing cyclist
  • Ole Rømer
    Danish astronomer
  • Ole Stavad
    Danish MP
  • Ole Svendsen
    Danish Olympic boxer

The name Ole in Pop Culture

  • Ole
    stereotypical Scandinavian in "Sven & Ole" or "Lena & Ole" jokes