Birgitte

Anglicized variation of Gaelic Brighid

"strength or exalted one"

Birgitte Origin and Meaning

The name Birgitte is a girl's name of Norwegian origin.

Birgitte is a feminine name of Scandinavian origin, primarily used in Denmark and Norway as a variant of Bridget. The name derives from the Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess,' associated with the ancient Celtic goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom. Birgitte gained international recognition through notable bearers like Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester, and Danish actress Birgitte Hjort Sørensen. The Scandinavian pronunciation typically emphasizes the second syllable with a soft 'g' sound. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Birgitte offers a sophisticated European alternative to the more familiar Bridget or Brigitte. The name carries an air of elegance and Nordic heritage, appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural depth and a distinctive international flair.

Famous People Named Birgitte

• Birgitte Eva Henriksen Duchess of Gloucester, wife of Britain's Prince Richard
• Birgitte Hjort Sørensen Danish actress
• Birgitte Thott Danish scholar and feminist
• Birgitte Federspiel Danish actress
• Birgitte Cathrine Boye Danish hymnist
• Birgitte Christine Kaas Norwegian poet
• Birgitte Price Danish actress

The name Birgitte in Pop Culture

• Birgitte Silverbow from the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan