Swedish Names for Girls
- Moa
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"mother"Description:
Moa is among the Top 100 Swedish baby names but virtually unknown in the US. Might Moa be a substitute for Mia or Maya? An intriguing idea. There is a Swedish author named Moa Martinson.
- Tindra
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"to twinkle or sparkle"Description:
Tindra is a new name in Sweden, used only since the 1980s, that has become enormously popular: It's in the Top 60 there. And while unknown in the US, Tindra certainly has possibilities as a substitute for the flagging Kendra.
- Sassa
Description:
Sassa is a short, feminine name with multiple potential origins. In Swedish, it functions as a diminutive of Sara or Saskia, conveying playfulness and affection. The name may also have Italian or Germanic roots, where it can relate to meanings of 'defender' or 'helper.' With its simple two-syllable pronunciation (SAH-sah) and repeated consonant pattern, Sassa has a distinctly cheerful, rhythmic quality. While uncommon in most English-speaking countries, the name offers international appeal and the contemporary trend toward shorter names. Sassa balances uniqueness with simplicity, making it easy to pronounce and spell while still standing out as distinctive and memorable.
- Berit
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of BirgitMeaning:
"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.
- Charlotta
Origin:
Swedish variation of Charlotte, FrenchMeaning:
"free man"Description:
This form of Charlotte, long obscure, is sure to grow in popularity along with the explosion of Charlotte. It's pretty and feminine and a nice spin on the more familiar version. In Germany, short form Lotta is popular.
- Yolande
Description:
Yolande is a feminine name of medieval French origin derived from the Germanic elements 'yol' meaning 'viking' or 'valiant' and 'lande' meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gained popularity throughout medieval Europe. The name has royal connections, having been borne by several medieval queens and noblewomen, including Yolande of Aragon in the 15th century. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Yolande has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its elegant, vintage sound and distinctive character. Alternative forms include Yolanda, Iolanthe, and Violante, which evolved in different European languages.
- Brigitta
Description:
Brigitta is a feminine name with rich historical roots, derived from the ancient Celtic name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'high goddess.' It's the Central European form of Bridget, particularly popular in Hungarian, German, and Scandinavian cultures. The name is associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints known for her generosity and compassion. Brigitta gained international recognition through characters in literature and film, including Maria's friend in 'The Sound of Music.' While maintaining its classic origins, Brigitta offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Bridget or Brigitte, combining ancient Celtic heritage with continental European elegance.
- Marna
Description:
Marna is a concise feminine name with multiple possible origins. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, it may be a variant of Marina or a diminutive of names containing "mar" (sea). It could also derive from the Hebrew name Marnah, meaning "joy" or "rejoicing." In some contexts, it might be connected to the German river Marne or represent a shortened form of Mariana. The name appears in Norse mythology as well, adding to its heritage. Marna has a strong yet feminine quality with its straightforward pronunciation and flowing sound. Though relatively uncommon in most countries, it enjoys some usage in Scandinavian regions and occasionally in English-speaking countries. Its brevity and classic sound give it an understated elegance while remaining distinctive.
- Anneka
Description:
Anneka is a feminine name with Scandinavian and Dutch origins, primarily functioning as a variant of Anna or Annika. In Dutch, it's a diminutive form of Anna, while in Swedish and Finnish contexts, it's closely related to Annika. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace.' Anneka gained international recognition in the UK and beyond through Swedish television presenter Anneka Rice, who hosted popular challenge programs in the 1980s and 1990s. The name combines traditional roots with a fresh, slightly exotic sound, making it appealing to parents seeking something familiar yet distinctive. While never extremely common, Anneka has maintained steady usage, particularly in Northern European countries and among English speakers looking for alternatives to more common Ann-derived names.
- Bird
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
We once dismissed Bird as "too flighty", but with the rise of avian names from Lark to Robin to, well, Birdie, we don't see why Bird can't be a fine choice, especially as a middle name.
- Vilma
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Vilhelmina; a Polish place-nameDescription:
Not much to recommend this relative of Wilma; consider Willa or Willow instead.
- Miah
Origin:
Swedish variant of MiaDescription:
Made most familiar by Miah Persson, a famous Swedish opera singer.
- Karila
Description:
Karila is a feminine name with potential Finnish or indigenous roots. In Finnish, it may relate to 'kari' meaning 'reef' or 'shoal,' combined with a feminine suffix. The name might also have connections to various global indigenous naming traditions. Karila has a melodic quality with its balanced alternation of consonants and vowels and its gentle ending. It remains quite uncommon in international usage statistics, making it a distinctive choice. The name has a natural, organic feel while still sounding contemporary. Karila's international versatility comes from its straightforward pronunciation and spelling in multiple languages. For parents seeking something uncommon yet accessible, Karila offers uniqueness without complexity.
- Gunilla
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"battle maiden"Description:
This popular old Swedish name is not one that would appeal to many modern American parents, though shortening it to Nilla helps.
- Brita
Description:
Brita is a feminine name with Scandinavian and German origins. It developed as a variant of Bridget (or Brigid), which ultimately derives from the Celtic name meaning 'strength' or 'exalted one.' Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, and Germany, Brita has a clean, crisp sound that resonates well in Nordic countries. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, it offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Britta or Brigitte. The name carries connotations of strength and resilience, influenced by its etymological roots. In some regions, it may also be associated with the water filter brand, though this commercial connection is separate from its traditional heritage.
- Frederika
Origin:
Feminine variation of Frederick, GermanMeaning:
"peaceful ruler"Description:
Frederika is one of many feminine variations of the many variations of Frederick, which include Frederica, Friederike, and Frederieke. The name carries an air of nobility and elegance, having been used in royal families throughout European history.
- Wera
Description:
Wera is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic languages, particularly Polish, it's a variant of Vera, meaning 'faith.' The name also appears in Germanic contexts as a variation of Vera or potentially related to names containing the element 'wer' meaning 'true' or 'faithful.' In some Baltic cultures, Wera has independent usage as well. Throughout the 20th century, Wera remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but had more presence in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and Germany. The name carries a strong, concise quality with just two syllables, making it cross cultural boundaries easily. Today, Wera remains an understated choice that offers simplicity and a subtle international flair while maintaining its connection to the virtue of faith.
- Gundruna
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"divine wisdom"Description:
Baby-naming rule #487: it's probably best to avoid names whose only possible nickname is Gun.
- Mareeba
Description:
Mareeba is a feminine name of Australian Aboriginal origin. It comes from the name of a town in Queensland, Australia, which is believed to derive from an Aboriginal word meaning 'meeting of the waters' or 'place of harmony.' The name carries the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Australian landscape. Mareeba remains quite rare as a given name globally, making it a distinctive choice. Its melodic quality, with flowing vowels and soft consonants, gives it a gentle yet distinctive sound. Parents might choose Mareeba for its unique Australian connection, its meaningful etymology suggesting harmony and natural beauty, or simply for its lyrical sound quality.
- Rakel
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of RachelDescription:
Apt to be confused with Raquel.