By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 8 pages
of 8
Scandinavian
"stream, river"
Name with genuine roots that nevertheless feels synthetic.
German, Scandinavian diminutive of Charlotte
"free man"
Lotte is a short form of Charlotte and a name used in its own right in Scandinavia as well as Dutch- and German-speaking countries. It’s unlikely to catch on in the US, where even Lottie hasn’t…
Norwegian, Danish, Czech, variation of Cecilia, Latin
"blind"
Variant of Cecilia used in several European countries, which could also make for a pretty variant spelling of the medieval English version, Cecily.
English diminutive of Kristen or Kristina, Scandinavian from Greek
"a Christian"
Kris was once the ultimate cool cheerleader name, but now she's more likely to be a matriarch ala Kris Jenner. Only five baby girls were named Kris in the US last year, though there are still several…
Swedish, Finnish, Inuktitut
"lily"
If you're ready to move beyond Anna and Hannah, consider this traditional Scandinavian short form of Susanna, historically very popular in its native lands. Sanna is also a modern Inuktitut form of…
"new victory"
Signe could make an offbeat, more unusual alternative to Sydney or Sigrid. In Norse mythology, Signe was the twin sister of Sigmund. Can also be spelled Signy.
"will, determination"
Ulla, the beautiful Swedish secretary in The Producers (played by Uma Thurman in the movie) who purrs, "Ven you got it, flaunt it," has changed the image of this name forever. Ulla may stand on its…
Scandinavian variation of Birgit
"exalted one"
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.
Variation of Xenia, Sena, or Thana, English, Scandinavian, Turkish
"hospitable, welcoming; praise"
A name that looks simple on the surface but has a variety of complex roots, Senia is often used as an alternative form of Xenia, a Greek name meaning "hospitable, welcoming" or "guest". This spelling…
Norse, diminutive of Sigrid
"fair victory"
Siri is a charming and lively Scandinavian name that is no longer on the table given the ubiquity of Apple's digital Siri. Too bad, because Siri -- along with variations Syrie and Cyrie -- is unique,…
Chinese, Scandinavian, Hawaiian
"beautiful; beloved, bitter, drop of the sea; pebbly"
Sweet and pleasant, Maili is one of those names which looks simple but does in fact have a wide range of origins, ranging from Scandinavian to Chinese. From its Chinese roots, Maili may be used as an…
Scandinavian variation of Isaac
When the Danish author Karen Blixen chose Isak Dinesen as her male pseudonym, she set a precedent that could well be followed today.
"sword goddess"
Pronunciation problems overwhelm this name.
Scandinavian short form of Christina
"annointed, Christian"
The Steen, Steena, and Stina nicknames for Christina are much more common in Scandinavia than in the English-speaking world, which prefers the Chris variations.
African, Ugandan
"peace"
A warm and musical name with a lovely meaning. There is a popular song called Dembe by famous Ugandan artist named Bobbi Wine, who also ran for President.
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,…
Feminine form of Ulrich or Wulfric, Swedish, German
"rich and noble heritage; wolf ruler"
Ulrica has an Old World sound, but is perhaps enough like Erika and Annika that it could work today. Also spelled Ulrika, it was borne by a 18th century Swedish queen and Olympic ice hockey player,…
Scandinavian, feminine variation of Vanya
Russian Uncle Vanya becomes niece Vanja in Sweden: an intriguing switch.
"wanderer"
An unusual name associated with the gorgeous Swedish-Norwegian model, actress, and TV host, Vendela is possibly a feminine form of Wendell.
Swedish, Nordic
"alive, life; place of refuge"
This is one of the most vibrant and feminine of the names meaning life , and it's sure to gain more attention as the whole sisterhood of Viv- names rise. Celebrated Swedish actress Viveca Lindfors,…
