Swedish Names for Boys

  1. Melker
    • Origin:

      Modern Swedish variation of Melchior
    • Meaning:

      "city of the king; king of light"
    • Description:

      Melker, a modern phonetic spelling of ancient Three Wise Men name Melchior, is in the Swedish Top 100 though not used in the US, where it would be heard as "milker." Nickname Mel is not exactly a fashionable choice at the moment either.
  2. Klemens
    • Origin:

      German and Swedish variation of Clement
    • Description:

      Soft, gentle, and non-Germanic, but the final s almost makes it sound plural.
  3. Alrik
    • Description:

      Alrik is a masculine name with strong Norse and Germanic roots, meaning 'ruler of all' or 'complete ruler'—derived from elements meaning 'all' and 'ruler' or 'king.' This powerful name appears in Norse mythology and Scandinavian history, representing strength and leadership. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Alrik maintains steady usage in Scandinavian nations, particularly Sweden. The name offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar Norse-derived names like Erik or Alaric. With its compact structure, strong consonants, and meaningful heritage, Alrik appeals to parents seeking a masculine name with historical depth and a commanding presence that remains relatively unique in contemporary settings.
  4. Roffe
    • Description:

      Roffe is a masculine name with Scandinavian origins, particularly Swedish and Norwegian. It likely developed as a variant or diminutive of Rolf, which combines the Germanic elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'wulf' (wolf), creating a powerful meaning of 'famous wolf.' In Swedish, 'Roffe' is commonly used as a familiar form of Rolf. The name has a strong, compact quality with its two syllables and distinctive double 'f.' While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Roffe maintains popularity in parts of Scandinavia. The name carries associations of Nordic heritage and conveys a sense of strength. Its rarity outside Scandinavia makes it an interesting choice for parents seeking a name with authentic Nordic roots.
  5. 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.
  6. Sten
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "a stone"
    • Description:

      Once a short form of names containing this syllable, it is now used on its own, though we'd prefer Sven.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. Krist
    • Description:

      Krist is a masculine name with Scandinavian and Eastern European origins, functioning as a shortened form of Kristian or Kristoffer (variants of Christian and Christopher). The name directly references Christ in many languages, deriving from the Greek 'Khristos' meaning 'anointed one.' In countries like Latvia, Estonia, and parts of Scandinavia, Krist appears as both a given name and surname. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers a strong, concise alternative to longer Christian-derived names. The name's brevity gives it a modern, streamlined quality despite its ancient religious origins. Krist presents a cross-cultural option that's both distinctive and connected to widespread naming traditions across Europe.
  10. Humfrid
    • Description:

      Humfrid is a masculine name with ancient Germanic origins, representing a historical form of Humphrey. The name combines elements meaning 'giant' or 'bear' and 'peace,' creating a powerful meaning of 'peaceful warrior' or 'peaceful strength.' This older spelling variant preserves more of the name's medieval character than the more common Humphrey. Humfrid carries an air of nobility and antiquity, evoking images of medieval Europe and Anglo-Saxon heritage. While decidedly uncommon in modern times, it offers a distinctive alternative for parents drawn to historical names with substantial meaning. The name's rich etymology and strong consonant sounds give it a distinguished, scholarly quality while honoring naming traditions that have largely fallen out of contemporary use.

  11. Simson
    • Description:

      Simson is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Simpson, which originated as a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Simon.' Simon itself comes from the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'he has heard.' This alternative spelling maintains the same pronunciation while simplifying the written form. Simson appears occasionally as a given name, though much less frequently than the surname usage or the given name Simon. The name carries a traditional, somewhat serious quality and may appeal to parents seeking to honor an ancestor named Simon while giving their child a distinctive variation. While never achieving widespread popularity as a first name, Simson has historical precedent across several centuries in English-speaking regions, particularly in families with Scottish or English heritage.

  12. Basle
    • Description:

      Basle is a masculine name that likely derives from the city of Basel (also spelled Basle in English) in Switzerland. The city name itself comes from the Late Latin 'Basilia' derived from the Greek 'basileus' meaning 'king' or 'leader.' As a personal name, Basle is extremely rare, not appearing in most standard naming records or popularity charts. It has a sophisticated European quality while remaining short and straightforward. The name might appeal to parents seeking a subtle geographical reference or a name with connections to Swiss heritage. Basle has a strong, masculine sound despite its single syllable, and its uniqueness ensures that bearers stand out. The name balances cultural significance with simplicity.
  13. Svens
    • Description:

      Svens is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant or possessive form of Sven, a traditional Scandinavian name with Norse origins meaning 'young man' or 'young warrior.' While Sven is well-established in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, the variant Svens is considerably rarer. The original name Sven has a long history dating back to the Viking Age and was borne by several medieval Scandinavian kings. The unusual plural or possessive form Svens might have emerged as a patronymic surname that later transferred to first-name usage. With its distinctive 's' ending, Svens maintains the strong, concise quality of its root name while offering something more distinctive. The name carries associations with Nordic heritage, conjuring images of strength and resilience associated with Scandinavian culture.

  14. 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.
  15. Rolle
    • Description:

      Rolle is a masculine name with Germanic and Scandinavian origins. It likely developed as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'Rod' or 'Roland,' meaning 'famous land' or 'famous throughout the land.' In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, it may function as a nickname for Roland or as a standalone given name. The name also appears as a surname in various European regions. With its short, strong sound and simple pronunciation, Rolle carries a certain charming directness. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers an accessible yet distinctive option for parents drawn to Scandinavian naming traditions. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.
  16. Nansen
    • Origin:

      Swedish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Nancy"
    • Description:

      Feminist twist on Hansen and Jansen.
  17. 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.
  18. Vanentin
    • Description:

      Vanentin is a masculine name that appears to be a variant of Valentine or Valentin. The original name derives from Latin "valens" meaning "strong" or "healthy," and was popularized through Saint Valentine. This particular spelling variation with the 'V' replacing the traditional 'V' creates a distinctive twist on the classic name. While uncommon in most naming databases, Vanentin maintains the romantic associations of Valentine while offering a unique alternative. The name has a melodic quality with its three syllables and gentle ending. For parents drawn to Valentine's romantic history but seeking something more distinctive, Vanentin provides an uncommon variation that still connects to the traditional name's meaning of strength and its associations with love and devotion.
  19. Olov
    • Description:

      Olov is a masculine Scandinavian name, primarily used in Sweden and Norway as a variant of Olaf or Olof. It derives from the Old Norse name Áleifr, composed of elements meaning 'ancestor' and 'heir' or 'descendant.' This traditional Nordic name carries significant historical weight in Scandinavian countries, where it has been borne by kings and saints. Olov has a distinctive yet accessible sound, characterized by its brevity and strong consonant ending. While common in Scandinavia, it remains relatively rare in other regions, making it an interesting option for parents seeking a name with authentic Norse heritage. The name combines ancient roots with a clean, modern phonetic quality.

  20. Greger
    • Description:

      Greger is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, functioning as the Swedish and Norwegian form of Gregory. Derived from the Greek 'gregorios' meaning 'watchful' or 'alert,' the name carries a sense of vigilance and attentiveness. Particularly common in Sweden, Norway, and other Nordic countries, Greger has a strong cultural connection to Scandinavia while maintaining its international recognition through its relationship to Gregory. The name has historical significance through various notable figures including saints, popes, and regional leaders bearing variations of the name. Greger combines traditional roots with a distinctive Nordic character, making it appealing for families with Scandinavian heritage or those seeking a strong yet uncommon masculine name with established historical significance.