Scandinavian Names

Once popular (and still familiar) in Norway, Stian could make an interesting choice for anyone with northern European roots. It is a modern form of the Norse Stígandr, with its appealing, wanderer meaning.

Joakim is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, representing a Scandinavian and Eastern European form of Joachim. Derived from the Hebrew name Yehoyakim, meaning 'established by God' or 'God will raise,' Joakim carries strong religious and historical significance. Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and parts of Eastern Europe, the name has maintained steady usage throughout centuries. Joakim became internationally recognized partly through notable bearers including basketball player Joakim Noah and various European athletes and artists. The name blends biblical heritage with a contemporary Scandinavian feel, offering a distinctive yet accessible choice. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Joakim provides an international alternative with both cultural depth and modern appeal.

Virtually never heard in this country, with a quirky quality.

A very Christmas-y Christmas baby name, that may avoid the Santa image by instead adopting the alternative spelling Klaus.

The raven was a holy bird in Norse mythology, giving this choice some resonance beyond other Bart variations.

Original and straightforward, but with little appeal.

Shades of Thurston Howell, the effete millionaire castaway on Gilligan's Island.

Karin was a fairly popular spelling variation of Karen in the US but fell off the Top 1000 in the late 80s, as Karen's popularity wained. Today, the Karen meme interferes with the otherwise appealing sound of this name.

Kiersten is the version of Kirsten you use if you really really really don't want anyone to mispronounce it as ker-sten or kris-ten. But they probably still will.

A strong, powerful choice, ancestor of the modern Superboy Names. Knut is the name of the patron saint of Denmark; Knute Rockne was a legendary Notre Dame football coach. Knute is the middle name of Jessica Simpson's son Ace, in honor of his paternal great-grandfather.

Well used in northern Europe, almost unknown in the US, Berit is could make an off-beat alternative to Betty, Beth, or Merritt for those with Scandinavian ancestry.

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.

Also spelled Torill, Torril and Torrill, this refined variation is derived from the Old Norse name Þórhildr and its more modern Norwegian form, Torhild. Stylish in Norway in the 50s and 60s, this name could now make a strong, distinctive, and appealing choice to those outside its native country, especially to those interested in Norse Mythology.

Hedvig is a feminine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hadu' meaning 'battle, combat' and 'wig' meaning 'war.' Despite these fierce origins, the name has developed a refined, intellectual reputation over centuries of use. Particularly common in Scandinavian countries and parts of Eastern Europe, Hedvig has royal connections through several notable queens and princesses. In Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, the name has maintained steady usage through generations, though it's typically considered a traditional rather than trendy choice. Hedvig combines historical depth with a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common Scandinavian names. Outside Nordic countries, the name remains uncommon but recognizable, often associated with strength, wisdom, and cultural heritage.

Outmoded comic book choice.

While this may look like an animal related word name to those unfamiliar with it, Roar is a Norwegian name derived from the Old Norse element hróðr meaning "fame". combined with either herr meaning "warrior" or "geirr meaning "spear". It can also be spelled as Hroar.

Verner is a masculine name with Germanic and Scandinavian origins, derived from the elements 'war' and 'army,' meaning 'defending warrior' or 'protecting army.' This ancient name was brought to England by the Normans and has variants including Warner and Werner. Verner carries an air of old-world dignity and strength, with historical connections to medieval Europe. Though never extremely common in English-speaking countries, it maintained steady usage throughout the 20th century before declining in popularity. The name has a distinguished, scholarly sound while still embodying traditional masculine qualities. Verner may appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and Nordic connections. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden and Denmark, the name has enjoyed more consistent usage.

Syrin is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a modern variation of Siren, referencing the enchanting mythological creatures of Greek mythology known for their captivating songs. Alternatively, it could be related to the word "syrinx," which refers to a type of pan pipe instrument in Greek mythology. This connection gives the name musical associations and a lyrical quality.

Pronounced ROOT in its native land, but in a rut here.