Scandinavian Names that Start With B

  1. Bo
    • Origin:

      Norse nickname
    • Meaning:

      "to live"
    • Description:

      A popular name in Denmark, in this country Bo has some cowboy swagger and a lot of substance in its minimal two letters. In Mandarin Chinese, Bo means "wave".
  2. Bridgette
    • Description:

      Bridgette is a feminine name representing a French variation of Bridget, ultimately derived from the Celtic name Brighid meaning "exalted one." In Irish mythology, Brighid was a powerful goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom. This spelling with the double-t gives the name a touch of French elegance while maintaining its Celtic roots. Bridgette gained popularity in the mid-20th century, partly inspired by French actress Brigitte Bardot, though this variation uses a more phonetic English spelling. The name balances traditional heritage with accessibility, offering a slightly more elaborate alternative to the simpler Bridget. While never reaching the heights of ultra-popular girls' names, Bridgette has maintained steady usage, appreciated for its classic feel and feminine charm.

  3. Broderick
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "brother"
    • Description:

      Despite its brotherly meaning, sounds rather formal and cold.
  4. Brunhilda
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "armed for battle"
    • Description:

      Variant of Brunhild, still clad in heavy armor. Though the heroine Brunhilda of Quentin Tarantino's recent film Django Unchained may have given this version of the name new appeal.
  5. Birgitta
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Bridget, Gaelic
    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"
    • Description:

      Classic Scandinavian form of Bridget. Saint Birgitta of Sweden is the patron saint of Europe.
  6. Britta
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian, variation of Birgit or Britt
    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"
    • Description:

      If you want a pan-Scandinavian name with energy and style that could have been a winner, if not for the sound-alike water filtration company Brita.
  7. Birgit
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Brighid
    • Meaning:

      "strength"
    • Description:

      Birgit is pronounced with a hard 'g' and is one of the many international versions of the Irish Bridget. Birgit Nilsson was a celebrated Swedish operatic soprano.
  8. Bergen
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian
    • Meaning:

      "lives on a hill"
    • Description:

      Norwegian city name heard much more often as a last name than a first.
  9. Berit
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Birgit
    • Meaning:

      "exalted one"
    • Description:

      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.
  10. Brunhild
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "armed for battle"
    • Description:

      One of the Valkyries, still clad in heavy armor.
  11. Broder
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian
    • Meaning:

      "brother"
    • Description:

      One of the more unfamiliar Nordic choices, a perfect set-up for the nickname Brody.
  12. Bartram
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian
    • Meaning:

      "glorious raven"
    • Description:

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

      Scandinavian
    • Meaning:

      "son of Bjorn"
    • Description:

      Leave it at Bjorn.
  14. Bernt
    • Description:

      Bernt is a masculine name of Scandinavian and Germanic origin, functioning as a variation of Bernard or Bernhard, which derives from elements meaning "bear" and "brave" or "hardy." Particularly common in Norway, Sweden, and Germany, Bernt has historical roots dating back centuries in Northern Europe. The name carries strong connotations of strength and resilience reflected in its etymology. While rarely used in English-speaking countries, Bernt remains a traditional choice in Scandinavian regions. Its concise, strong sound makes it distinctive in international contexts. The name combines ancient Germanic heritage with a straightforward, masculine character that feels both traditional and somewhat unique outside its countries of origin.

  15. Barbro
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Barbara
    • Description:

      A more upbeat, modern-sounding version of a granny name.