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.

Ole Rank in US Top 1000

# 993 in the US

Popularity of the name Ole

• 1634 Nameberry 2025
• 100 Germany 2023

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