Swedish Names for Girls
- Barbro
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of BarbaraDescription:
A more upbeat, modern-sounding version of a granny name.
- 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.
- Birta
Origin:
IcelandicMeaning:
"exalted or rescue"Description:
An Icelandic diminutive of Birgitta turned popular first name there, currently ranking among the Top 30 girl names in Iceland. Parent name Birgitta is either a Nordic variant of Brigitta, from the Irish Brighid "exalted one", or a feminization of the Norse masculine name Birger, meaning "help, rescue".
- Vilma
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Vilhelmina; a Polish place-nameDescription:
Not much to recommend this relative of Wilma; consider Willa or Willow instead.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Gustava
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"staff of the gods"Description:
Imposing, if not intimidating.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Rakel
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of RachelDescription:
Apt to be confused with Raquel.
- 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.
- 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.
Introducing the Nameberry App

- Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
- Names you match on are saved to your shared list
- Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
- Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
- Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.

