Swedish Names for Girls

  1. 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.
  2. Barbro
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Barbara
    • Description:

      A more upbeat, modern-sounding version of a granny name.
  3. 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.

  4. Gittan
    • Description:

      Gittan is a feminine Swedish name that functions primarily as a diminutive form of Birgitta or Margareta. The name has a warm, friendly quality typical of Swedish nicknaming patterns, which often add '-an' to create affectionate shortened forms. While predominantly used as a nickname in Sweden throughout the 20th century, some women have adopted it as their official given name. Gittan carries a distinctly Scandinavian character that would be quite uncommon outside the Nordic countries. The name has a pleasant rhythm and accessible pronunciation despite its foreign origin. For those with Swedish heritage, Gittan offers a connection to cultural naming traditions while providing a distinctive alternative to more common Scandinavian names like Ingrid or Astrid.
  5. Frideborg
    • Description:

      Frideborg is a rare feminine name with Germanic origins, combining the elements 'frid' meaning 'peace' and 'borg' meaning 'fortress' or 'protection,' thus creating the beautiful meaning 'peaceful fortress' or 'protective peace.' This name has historical roots in Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, though it remains quite uncommon even there. Frideborg has a strong, distinctive sound that evokes images of Nordic heritage and ancient strength. The name peaked in usage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Scandinavia but has become increasingly rare in modern times. For contemporary parents, Frideborg offers a unique option with authentic historical roots and a meaningful etymology that speaks to protection and tranquility.
  6. Gunilla
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Kornelis
    • Description:

      Kornelis is traditionally a masculine Dutch name but has seen occasional use as a feminine name in some regions. It derives from the Latin name Cornelius, originally a Roman clan name possibly meaning 'horn' or relating to the cornelia, a type of cherry tree. As a feminine name, Kornelis represents a bold, unconventional choice that carries historical weight despite its gender-crossing usage. The name has strong Dutch and Frisian roots, particularly common in the Netherlands and northern Germanic regions. While relatively uncommon internationally, it offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with European heritage. The combination of the strong 'K' sound with the flowing ending creates a balanced name with both strength and elegance, though its masculine associations in Dutch culture should be considered.
  8. Susann
    • Description:

      Susann is a feminine name that represents a variation of Susan, which derives from the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' This particular spelling with the double 'n' ending gives the classic name a slightly distinctive Germanic or Scandinavian flair. Susann reached its peak popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s but has become less common in recent decades. The name carries the same pleasant associations as Susan—intelligence, reliability, and warmth—while the unique spelling provides a subtle differentiation. Susann balances familiarity with individuality, making it recognizable yet somewhat uncommon. The name has literary connections through American author Jacqueline Susann, adding a creative dimension to its character.
  9. Gundruna
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "divine wisdom"
    • Description:

      Baby-naming rule #487: it's probably best to avoid names whose only possible nickname is Gun.
  10. Carolinda
    • Description:

      Carolinda is a melodious feminine name that appears to blend the classic name Caroline with the pretty ending of names like Linda or Melinda. Though not common in any country, it has a romantic, elaborate quality that evokes fairy tales and storybooks. The name carries a natural musicality with its flowing syllables. Carolinda likely shares etymological roots with Caroline, deriving from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man.' The '-linda' suffix comes from Germanic origins meaning 'gentle' or 'soft.' This elaborate combination creates a name that sounds both familiar and unique, potentially appealing to parents who appreciate traditional names but want something more distinctive for their daughter. Its rarity ensures a child named Carolinda would stand out while still having a name that feels intuitive to pronounce.

  11. 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.

  12. Jolande
    • Description:

      Jolande is a feminine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant of Yolanda. Derived from the medieval name Violante, which relates to the Latin word for violet flower, the name carries associations with beauty and delicacy. Jolande has been used throughout Europe, particularly in French, Dutch, and German-speaking regions. The name enjoyed moderate popularity during the early to mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades, giving it a vintage charm. Jolande possesses an elegant, sophisticated quality with its soft pronunciation and flowing syllables, making it appealing to parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name with European flair.
  13. Gustava
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "staff of the gods"
    • Description:

      Imposing, if not intimidating.
  14. Charlotta
    • Origin:

      Swedish variation of Charlotte, French
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  15. Kersten
    • Description:

      Kersten is a feminine name with Germanic roots, though it can occasionally be used for boys as well. It originated as a variation of Christina/Kristina, which derives from the Greek word 'christos' meaning 'anointed one.' Kersten evolved through Danish, German, and Dutch language influences, where it developed as a distinct northern European variant. The name gained moderate popularity in Germany and Scandinavian countries during the mid-20th century. In the United States, it remains uncommon but recognizable, offering an alternative to more common Christian-derived names. Kersten combines classic origins with a contemporary sound, featuring a soft yet strong pronunciation. The spelling variant Kirsten is more widely used internationally, though Kersten maintains its appeal for parents seeking names with European heritage and subtle religious connections.

  16. Antonetta
    • Description:

      Antonetta is a feminine name of Italian origin, serving as an elaborate feminine form of Anthony (Antonio in Italian). Derived from the Roman family name Antonius, it carries the meaning 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy.' This melodious four-syllable name embodies classical Italian charm and elegance. The diminutive suffix '-etta' adds a touch of delicacy and femininity to the strong root name. While popular in Italian communities and families with Italian heritage, Antonetta remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand. The name offers several potential nicknames including Toni, Netta, or Etta. Antonetta conveys a sense of timeless sophistication while honoring Italian cultural traditions, appealing to parents who appreciate names with depth, historical significance, and musical quality.