Scandinavian Names
- Njord
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"north"Description:
Pronounced to rhyme with fjord, the Norse god of the sea's name, this would make an unorthodox choice for sea-lovers and fishermen.
- Jeppe
Origin:
Scandinavian diminutive of JakobMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
Nickname-name that's all the rage in Scandinavia.
- Bjornson
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"son of Bjorn"Description:
Leave it at Bjorn.
- Vanja
Origin:
Scandinavian, feminine variation of VanyaDescription:
Russian Uncle Vanya becomes niece Vanja in Sweden: an intriguing switch.
- Jockum
Description:
Jockum is a distinctive masculine name with Scandinavian roots, primarily found in Sweden and Finland. It evolved as a variant of Joakim or Joachim, which derives from the Hebrew name Yehoyakim, meaning "established by God" or "God will raise up." While relatively uncommon globally, Jockum maintains a steady presence in Nordic countries where it's appreciated for its strong, distinctive sound and cultural heritage. The name carries a sense of tradition and uniqueness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth yet uncommon usage. In Sweden, it occasionally appears in the public eye through notable bearers in the arts and professional fields.
- Ulf
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"wolf"Description:
A common Scandinavian name, but hard to imagine being used elsewhere.
- Ingmar
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"son of Ing"Description:
Ingmar is known here almost solely through Swedish director Ingmar Bergman. Ing was the powerful Norse god of fertility and peace, who lent his name to several mortal variations, more notably to English-speakers the female Ingrid.
- Maurits
Description:
Maurits is a masculine name of Dutch origin, representing the Dutch form of Maurice. It derives from the ancient Roman name Mauritius, which comes from Maurus, meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish' in Latin. Historically, the name gained significance in the Netherlands through Maurice of Nassau (Maurits van Nassau), a key military leader during the Dutch Revolt against Spain in the 16th-17th centuries. While primarily found in the Netherlands and occasionally in Flemish-speaking parts of Belgium, Maurits remains a name with strong Dutch cultural associations. Though less common than international variants like Maurice, Morris, or Moritz, the name continues to be used in Dutch families, often to honor family traditions or historical connections.
- Vali
Origin:
Norse mythology nameDescription:
Although a bold male figure in Scandinavian legend, this is more appropriate for a girl.
- Heidrun
Origin:
Norse mythological nameDescription:
Heidrun, which is occasionally used in modern Europe, was the name of a mythological goat who nibbled from the tree of life, transforming her milk into mead. You might think of Heidrun as a cross between Heidi and Gudrun, but there's a good reason this one's never caught on in the US: It's still stuck on that mythical Norse hillside.
- Mikele
Description:
Mikele is a feminine name that represents a variation of Michele or Michela, which are Italian feminine forms of Michael. The name has Hebrew roots meaning 'Who is like God?' With a soft, melodic sound, Mikele offers a slightly uncommon twist on the more traditional Michelle or Michaela. While not among the most popular names in English-speaking countries, it carries a gentle elegance that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet recognizable. Mikele blends well internationally, with similar variations existing across several European cultures. The name's connection to the powerful archangel Michael gives it a sense of strength beneath its delicate exterior.
- Daven
Description:
Daven as a feminine name represents an interesting gender crossover, as it's more commonly recognized as a masculine name of Celtic and Hebrew origins. For girls, it offers a modern, strong alternative to more traditional feminine names. The name possibly derives from the Hebrew 'David' meaning 'beloved' or from Irish roots where it relates to 'deer' or 'poet.' As a feminine choice, Daven carries an appealing androgynous quality that aligns with contemporary naming trends. While still quite rare for girls, it exemplifies the growing movement toward gender-neutral naming. Its short, crisp sound makes it practical yet distinctive, with a contemporary edge that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon but not difficult to pronounce or spell.
- Kennett
Description:
Kennett is a masculine name with English origins, derived from the place name Kennett, which refers to a river in England. The river name is believed to come from the Celtic term meaning 'boundary water.' As a surname-turned-first-name, Kennett has an aristocratic, refined quality. While less common than the variant Kenneth, Kennett maintains the same strong, classic appeal with a slightly more distinctive edge. The name has never been among the most popular choices but appeals to parents seeking a traditional yet uncommon name with historical roots. Kennett projects reliability and steadfastness while offering the friendly nickname options of Ken or Kenny.
- Jokum
Description:
Jokum is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, primarily found in Denmark and Norway. It derives from the biblical name Joachim, which comes from Hebrew roots meaning 'established by God' or 'may God raise up.' This northern European variant developed through centuries of linguistic evolution in Scandinavian languages. Historically present in Nordic countries since medieval times, Jokum remains uncommon even in its countries of origin. The name carries a strong Viking heritage and Nordic cultural connection, making it appealing for those with Scandinavian ancestry. With its distinctive sound and spelling, Jokum stands out while still being recognizable as a traditional name. Its rarity in English-speaking countries gives it a distinctive quality for parents seeking something uncommon with historical roots.
- Kirstie
Origin:
Anglicization of Ciorstag, the Gaelic nickname for Christine, or short form of KirstenDescription:
Actress Kirstie Alley popularized this short form that's been off the popularity register for a decade.
- Brunhild
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"armed for battle"Description:
One of the Valkyries, still clad in heavy armor.
- Daan
Origin:
Scandinavian & Dutch variation of DanielMeaning:
"God is my judge"Description:
Dan with a little something extra.
- Kennet
Description:
Kennet is a masculine name with Scandinavian and Scottish origins, representing a variant spelling of Kenneth. Derived from the Gaelic name Coinneach meaning 'handsome' or 'fair,' it also connects to the Scottish clan name. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, Kennet has been used as a distinct variation. The name carries historical significance through Kenneth MacAlpin, the first king who united the Scots and Picts in the 9th century. While less common than Kenneth in English-speaking countries, Kennet offers a slightly different sound and appearance while maintaining the strong, classic appeal of its more familiar counterpart. The name suggests qualities of leadership and attractiveness while providing a subtle twist on a traditional name.
- Nilsson
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"son of Nils"Description:
The son at the end of many Scandinavian names makes them more consistent with modern American name tastes. While Nilsson may be the proper Scandinavian form of the name, many English speakers will try to spell it Nilson or Nelson.
- Galt
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"high ground"Description:
A literary surname that's short, to the point, and very rare. It combines several origins: Scandinavian meaning "high ground", Scottish meaning "stranger", and English meaning "wild boar" (hello, secret animal name!).