Finnish Names
- Lumi
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"snow"Description:
Lumi may be a rare girls' name in the USA and England, but it comes in the Top 50 in Finland, where it means snow. Given the popularity of Winter, Holly, Ivy and many other wintery-christmassy names, we think that short and spunky Lumi definitely has potential for greater usage outside its home country as one of the more unusual names for Christmas babies.
- Rasmus
Origin:
Finnish and Scandinavian variation of ErasmusMeaning:
"beloved, desired"Description:
A form of ancient name newly popular in Eastern Europe, Rasmus is rugged and distinctive - and on trend in Estonia and Finland. Virtually unknown in the U.S. but with its philosophical roots and uplifting meaning, Rasmus seems prime for use. The Rasmus is a Finnish rock band.
- Eero
Origin:
Finnish variation of EricMeaning:
"eternal ruler"Description:
Creative gem perfect for an architect's son, in tribute to modern Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen.
- Juni
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"June"Description:
Juni is the Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of the month name June. While Juni feels cute and fresh, most Americans would assume it was a nickname or a Joni variation. We prefer Juna or the English June.
- Saija
Origin:
Finnish diminutive of SarahMeaning:
"princess"Description:
This pretty Finnish name is a diminutive of a diminutive, going from Sarah to Sari to Saija.
- Suvi
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"summer"Description:
To the non-Scandinavian ear, a cute and unusual nickname name, used by Finnish supermodel Suvi Koponen. It has a zippy, yet sunny feel to it, and could make an interesting alternative to Susie.
- Mini
Description:
Mini is a feminine name that functions as both a standalone name and a diminutive nickname for longer names like Minerva, Minnie, Jasmine, or Dominique. Derived from various linguistic roots depending on the culture, it often connotes smallness or daintiness from the English word 'miniature.' The name has a playful, affectionate quality that maintains its charm from childhood through adulthood. While not among the most common given names in any country, Mini has international recognition and cross-cultural appeal. It gained some additional recognition through association with the Mini Cooper car brand and various fictional characters. The name's brevity and friendly sound make it accessible across language barriers.
- Aalto
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"wave"Description:
The last name of Finnish moderne designer/architect makes an original, creative choice with an unexpected water-related meaning.
- Sade
Origin:
Finnish, Nigerian and Yoruba, diminutive of FolashadeMeaning:
"rain; honor bestows a crown"Description:
The one-named singer clarified the confusing pronunciation on this one (in her case, it's shah-DAY), but a number of parents have looked for more phonetic spellings. The Finnish version means "rain."
- Valo
Origin:
Finnish; MalagasyMeaning:
"light"Description:
Really offbeat, upbeat multi-cultural name with light sound and meaning. Valo might make a more unique spin on Milo.
- Malin
Origin:
Scandinavian diminutive of MagdaleneMeaning:
"high tower or woman of Magdela"Description:
A multi-cultural name that's in the Norwegian Top 50 and well-used throughout the Scandinavian cultures. Malin has the advantage of being at once simple and unusual.
- Onni
Origin:
FinnishMeaning:
"happiness, luck"Description:
Onni is the Number 1 boy's name in Finland yet largely unknown in the English-speaking world. Its uplifting meaning makes it a plausible possibility if you want to honor your Nordic heritage.
- Aro
Origin:
Finnish diminutive of AaronDescription:
Aro is a cute name from Scandinavia which, given the popularity of similar names like Milo, Arlo etc might be ripe for more usage outside of the Nordic countries.
- Esa
Description:
Esa is a masculine name with multicultural origins. In Finnish, it's a traditional name meaning 'God is my salvation' or 'God helps,' equivalent to the biblical name Isaiah. In Arabic cultures, Esa (عيسى) is the name for Jesus, making it a name of profound religious significance. The name's brevity gives it a modern appeal despite its ancient origins. Esa has remained consistently used in Finland and various Muslim communities, though it's relatively uncommon in Western countries. Its cross-cultural presence, meaningful spiritual connections, and simple pronunciation make it attractive to parents seeking a name with depth that works well internationally.
- Timo
Origin:
Norwegian, Finnish, German, and Dutch variation of TimothyMeaning:
"honoring God"Description:
Popular in its own right in Germany and definitely makes a more intriguing and grownup short form of the classic Timothy than Timmy or even Tim.
- Ailana
Origin:
KazakhMeaning:
"moonlight"Description:
A pretty Kazakh name derived from Turkish ayla, meaning "moonlight". The Hawaiian name 'Ailana (with the 'okina mark) means "loving".
- Taavi
Description:
Taavi is a Finnish and Estonian form of David, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'beloved.' Compact yet substantial, Taavi carries the strength and significance of its biblical predecessor while offering a distinctively Nordic flavor. In Finland, where it originated, Taavi has maintained consistent popularity as a traditional yet not overly common choice. The name has a pleasing symmetry with its alternating vowels and consonants, making it both simple to pronounce and memorable. Taavi represents a perfect option for parents seeking a name with ancient roots and religious significance but with a fresh, international feel relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.
- Valo
Origin:
Finnish; MalagasyMeaning:
"light; eight"Description:
Valo, an unusual entry in the o-ending category, can work for girls in the US. On Nameberry, it's especially popular among visitors from Bangladesh.
- Lilya
Description:
Lilya is a charming feminine name with Slavic and Russian origins, functioning as a diminutive of Liliya, the Russian form of Lily. The name ultimately connects to the lily flower, a symbol of purity, innocence, and beauty across many cultures. Lilya has been used traditionally in Eastern European countries including Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. The name carries a delicate, feminine quality while maintaining a distinctive international character. Though less common in Western countries, it has gained some recognition through cultural exchange and immigration. Lilya offers parents a name that feels both familiar yet unique, with its connection to the popular 'Lily' family while maintaining its own cultural identity.
- Selka
Origin:
Variation of Selkie, Selda, Zelda, Zelig, or Silke, Scottish, Polish, German, YiddishMeaning:
"seal folk; gray fighting maid; blessed, happy; heavenly"Description:
Selka is an uncommon feminine name with a whole variety of possible origins. Its crisp, modern sound and rare-yet-familiar feel, make it an alluring choice.