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Swedish Names for Boys

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Jun 09 2020
Swedish names for boys can be a severe lot to the American ear, with only a few choices such as Stellan outside of Stockholm. The most popular names for boys in Sweden are a pan-European lot, dominated by Oscar, Lucas, William, Liam, and Oliver, all also popular in the UK, the US, Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, and other countries throughout Europe and the English-speaking world. A few more exotic choices from the top of the Swedish boys' list are Ludvig, Axel, Nils, and Arvid, though not all of these originate in the Swedish language. Melvin is a popular name for boys in Sweden, as are Gustav, Viggo, Sixten, and Love.

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.
  1. 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.
  2. Olin

    • Origin:

      Swedish, Norwegian, English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Lukas

    • Origin:

      German variation of Lucas

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  4. Bjorn

    • Origin:

      Swedish, Icelandic, German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  5. Valdemar

    • Origin:

      Nordic variation of Vladimir

    • Description:

      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.
  6. Arvid

    • Origin:

      Swedish, Norwegian, Danish

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. 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.

  8. Paulo

    • Origin:

      Portuguese, Swedish, and Hawaiian variation of Paul

    • Description:

      Paulo suffers in comparison to the richer and more authentic-sounding Paolo.
  9. Evert

    • Origin:

      English, variation of Everett, from German Eberhard

    • Meaning:

      "brave boar"

    • Description:

      Though you might have been a fan of tennis star Chris Evert, stick with EVERETT, which everyone will think you're saying anyway.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.

  12. Pelle

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Peter, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "rock, stone"

    • Description:

      Pelle is one of several possible Peter-related Scandinavian choices. In Swedish or Norwegian, the name Pelle rhymes roughly with Ella.
  13. Ernst

    • Origin:

      German variation of Ernest

    • Description:

      Concise and clipped European version of the earnest Ernest.
  14. Adolphus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "noble wolf"

    • Description:

      This softer version of Adolf is sadly still off-limits due to the connotations with Hitler.
  15. Filip

    • Origin:

      Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Dutch, Czech, Slovak, Bulgarian, Polish, Croatian, Serbian, Slovene, Macedonian, Romanian, and Finnish variation of Philip, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"

    • Description:

      Streamlined spelling found all across Europe. The Spanish Filipo has extra zip.
  16. Måns

    • Description:

      Måns is a masculine Scandinavian name, primarily used in Sweden, representing a contracted form of Magnus. The name Magnus derives from Latin meaning 'great' or 'powerful.' Måns gained wider recognition through notable bearers like Swedish musician Måns Zelmerlöw. The distinctive 'å' character marks it as unmistakably Nordic. While common in Sweden, it remains relatively unknown internationally, making it an intriguing option for those with Scandinavian heritage or appreciation for Swedish culture. Short and straightforward, Måns combines brevity with historical depth. The name's strong single syllable gives it a bold, distinctive quality despite its simplicity. Its ancient roots connected to greatness contrast appealingly with its modern, minimalist form.
  17. Stig

    • Origin:

      Swedish

    • Meaning:

      "wanderer"

    • Description:

      Like Stian, a more manageable short form of the unwieldy Srigandr, but with a less euphonic sound. Stig Larsson is a successful Swedish novelist, not to be confused with the even more successful late Swedish novelist Stieg Larsson (born Karl Stig-Erland LArsson), author of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo</>..
  18. 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.
  19. Rickert

    • Description:

      Rickert is a masculine name of Germanic origin, functioning as a variant of Richard or as a surname that has transitioned to first-name usage. The name combines the Germanic elements "ric" meaning "power, rule, or leader" and "hard" meaning "brave or strong." This variation emerged primarily in German, Dutch, and Scandinavian regions. While never achieving widespread popularity as a first name, Rickert maintains a steady presence in communities with strong Germanic heritage. The name conveys strength and leadership qualities while offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Richard. Potential nicknames include Rick, Ricky, or Rett. Its somewhat serious tone carries historical weight and projects reliability.
  20. 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.