Swedish Names for Boys
Browse all the Swedish names for boys on Nameberry here. The top names below rank among the current US Top 1000 Baby Names and are ordered by popularity. Unique names rank below the Top 1000 and are listed alphabetically.
- Stellan
Origin:
Swedish, meaning unknown, possibly "calm"Meaning:
"calm"Description:
Stellan is a strong, attractive, Scandinavian possible up-and-comer, known through actor Stellan Skarsgard, and his namesake, the son of Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany. Its trendy 'an' ending and the similarity in sound to the popular Kellen/Kellan make it all the more accessible.
- Lukas
Origin:
German variation of LucasMeaning:
"man from Lucanus"Description:
Highly popular in Germany, Norway, Lithuania, and Austria, Lukas is a spelling variation of the also extremely popular Lucas. The "K" spelling gives it extra kick and a more international, globe-trotter feel.
- Pelle
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Peter, GreekMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
Pelle is one of several possible Peter-related Scandinavian choices. In Swedish or Norwegian, the name Pelle rhymes roughly with Ella.
- Olin
Origin:
Swedish, Norwegian, EnglishMeaning:
"ancestor, to inherit, legacy; from the low-lying land"Description:
Distinctive yet familiar, Olin is both a Scandinavian name and an English surname. Currently a rare choice, yet reminiscent of popular options, like Oliver, Orion, and Colin.
- Bjorn
Origin:
Swedish, Icelandic, GermanMeaning:
"bear"Description:
Bjorn is one of the most recognizable Scandinavian names, thanks in large part to tennis great Björn Borg, winner of five consecutive Wimbledon singles titles and six French opens and something of a rock star figure.
- Kalle
Origin:
Swedish diminutive and Finnish, Danish, and Estonian variant of KarlMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Typically used as a short form in Sweden and as a given name in Finland, Estonia, and Denmark, Kalle is a variation on Karl, in turn, making it to Charlie from Charles. Pronounced KAL-leh in Swedish and as KAHL-leh in Finnish and Estonian, notable bearers include racing driver Kalle Rovanperä, content creator Kalle Flodin, and film maker and activist, Kalle Lasn.
- Valdemar
Origin:
Nordic variation of VladimirDescription:
Ten years ago we would have advised people to steer clear of this name (and maybe choose the similar sounding Walter instead); but with the rise of other Nordic and Eastern European names like Viggo and Casimir, maybe its time to re-thing Valdemar. It's a big name, but with enough penache, it could be pulled off. Valdemar was introduced to Scandinavia in the 12th Century by a Danish king named for his Ukrainian grandfather, and is currently in the Danish Top 20.
- Fredrik
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Frederick, GermanMeaning:
"peaceful ruler"Description:
Popular throughout Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, Fredrik conveys the noble meaning of 'peaceful ruler.' The name has maintained consistent popularity in Nordic countries for centuries, while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking nations. Notable bearers include Swedish politicians, athletes, and artists.
- Lauris
Description:
Lauris is a masculine name with Baltic and Latin roots. In Latvia and Lithuania, it's a traditional male name derived from the Latvian word "lauris" meaning "crowned with laurel" or simply "laurel." The laurel plant has historically symbolized victory, honor, and achievement since ancient Greek and Roman times. In Roman tradition, laurel wreaths crowned victors and poets. The name may also be connected to the Latin name Laurentius (Lawrence), meaning "from Laurentum" or also associated with laurel. Lauris has remained moderately popular in Baltic countries while being relatively uncommon elsewhere. It offers a distinctive yet accessible option with classical roots and strong symbolic associations with triumph and artistic achievement.
- Arvid
Origin:
Swedish, Norwegian, DanishMeaning:
"eagle-tree"Description:
Arvid, a Scandinavian name that's virtually unknown in the US, is one of the top baby names in Sweden. It might make a handsome, unusual choice for a parent in search of an original yet traditional A name.
- Lennart
Description:
Lennart is a masculine Scandinavian name derived from the Germanic elements 'leon' (lion) and 'hard' (brave, strong), meaning "strong as a lion" or "lion-hearted." Popular primarily in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Germany, Lennart functions as the Nordic equivalent of Leonard. The name carries a sense of strength and resilience in Scandinavian culture, where it has maintained steady popularity for generations. While traditional in Northern Europe, Lennart remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality internationally. The name projects both reliability and quiet strength, with famous bearers including Swedish diplomat Lennart Meri and novelist Lennart Hellsing.
- Torkel
Description:
Torkel is a masculine name of Old Norse origin, derived from 'Þórkell' or 'Þórketill,' combining 'Þórr' (Thor, the god of thunder) and 'ketill' (cauldron, vessel). The name essentially means 'Thor's cauldron' or 'Thor's helmet.' With deep roots in Viking culture and Scandinavian heritage, Torkel was common throughout medieval Scandinavia and remains in use in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark today, though it's relatively rare. The name carries strong associations with Norse mythology and the powerful god Thor, conveying strength, protection, and ancient Northern European traditions. Its distinctive sound maintains authenticity while being pronounceable in English. For parents seeking a name with genuine Nordic heritage and mythological connections, Torkel offers a compelling option with historical depth and cultural significance.
- Ambrosius
Description:
Ambrosius is a masculine name of Greek and Latin origin, derived from the Greek word "ambrosios," meaning "immortal" or "divine." It is the original Latin form of the more common Ambrose. The name carries significant historical weight, having been borne by Saint Ambrosius of Milan, an important 4th-century theologian and one of the four original doctors of the Catholic Church. Throughout European history, the name appeared among clergy, nobility, and scholars, maintaining associations with learning and spiritual devotion. While Ambrosius has never been widely popular in modern English-speaking countries, it retains appeal for parents drawn to names with classical roots and substantial historical significance. The name projects dignity and intellectual seriousness, with potential nicknames including Ambrose, Brose, or even Sio.
- Gries
Description:
Gries is an extremely uncommon masculine name with Germanic origins. It primarily exists as a German and Dutch surname derived from Middle High German 'gries' meaning 'sand' or 'gravel,' likely originally referring to someone who lived near a sandy area. As a given name, Gries is exceptionally rare, representing the modern trend of adopting surnames as first names. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and distinctive consonant combination. Its rarity makes it virtually unique as a first name, appealing to parents seeking a truly distinctive option with Germanic roots. Gries might also connect to place names in Northern Italy and Austria, potentially making it meaningful for families with connections to these regions. While challenging to pronounce for those unfamiliar with Germanic names, its brevity helps make it accessible.
- Ernst
Origin:
German variation of ErnestDescription:
Concise and clipped European version of the earnest Ernest.
- Paulo
Origin:
Portuguese, Swedish, and Hawaiian variation of PaulDescription:
Paulo suffers in comparison to the richer and more authentic-sounding Paolo.
- Reinhold
Description:
Reinhold is a masculine name of Germanic origin meaning 'wise ruler' or 'counsel ruler,' derived from the elements 'ragin' (counsel) and 'wald' (rule). This traditional name has deep historical roots in German-speaking countries and Scandinavia, where it has been used since medieval times. While Reinhold enjoyed considerable popularity throughout Europe in earlier centuries, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, its usage has declined in modern times. Today, it's considered a classic but somewhat uncommon name that carries an air of dignity and old-world charm. The name remains more prevalent in Germanic countries and communities with strong German heritage, where traditional naming patterns are still valued.
- Basilius
Description:
Basilius is a masculine name with ancient roots, deriving from the Greek name Basileios, meaning 'royal' or 'kingly.' It's the original form of the more common Basil. The name was borne by several important early Christian saints, including Basil the Great, a 4th-century Church Father and theologian. Basilius has been used across various European cultures, particularly in Eastern Orthodox traditions. While uncommon in English-speaking countries today, it remains in use in parts of Eastern Europe, Greece, and among those with connections to Orthodox Christian heritage. The name carries an air of classical dignity and scholarly tradition, evoking images of ancient wisdom and nobility.
- Ulf
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"wolf"Description:
A common Scandinavian name, but hard to imagine being used elsewhere.
- Beng
Description:
Beng is a masculine name with origins in several Southeast Asian cultures, particularly in the Philippines and parts of Malaysia. In Filipino contexts, it often serves as a nickname for names like Benjamin or Bernard, though it can stand alone as a given name. The name is characterized by its brevity and strong consonant ending, giving it a distinctive, energetic quality. In some cultural contexts, Beng may also carry associations with brightness or quickness. While uncommon in Western countries, the name has traditional usage in its regions of origin. Beng exemplifies the trend of short, impactful names that work well across cultural boundaries while maintaining specific regional connections.
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