Scandinavian Names that Start With N
- Nessa
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"headlands, promontory"Description:
Like its cousin Tessa, Nessa -- a shortening of Vanessa or Agnes or Anastasia among other possibilities -- is an attractive nickname that can stand on its own.
- Nyle
Description:
Nyle is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant spelling of Nile, referring to the famous Egyptian river, which carries connotations of life-giving properties and ancient civilizations. Alternatively, it could be an Anglicized form of the Irish name Niall, meaning 'champion' or 'cloud.' Nyle has maintained consistent but low usage in English-speaking countries throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name gained some recognition through personalities like deaf activist and model Nyle DiMarco. With its streamlined, modern feel and rich potential meanings, Nyle appeals to parents seeking a concise, distinctive name that balances uniqueness with accessibility. Its single-syllable structure gives it a strong, straightforward quality.
- Niles
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"son of Neil"Description:
Perfect name for TV Frasier's effete brother. In the 2020 film Palm Springs, Andy Samberg plays a character with the updated spelling Nyles.
- Nicolai
Origin:
Scandinavian and Slavic form of NicholasMeaning:
"people of victory"Description:
Related to the Russian name Nikolai, this is a fresh and worldly form of a popular favorite.
- Njal
Description:
Njal is a masculine name of Norse origin, particularly associated with Iceland and Norway. The name comes from Old Norse 'Njáll,' and gained historical significance through the medieval Icelandic saga 'Njáls saga,' where the protagonist Njal Thorgeirsson is portrayed as a wise and respected lawyer. The name is pronounced 'nyahl' in its original form, with a soft 'j' sound. Historically, Njal represented wisdom, justice, and thoughtful counsel. Though rare outside of Scandinavian countries, it carries strong cultural connections to Norse heritage and Viking history. For those with Scandinavian ancestry or interest in Norse culture, Njal offers a distinctive yet authentic option with historical depth and meaningful literary connections.
- Njord
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"north"Description:
Pronounced to rhyme with fjord, the Norse god of the sea's name, this would make an unorthodox choice for sea-lovers and fishermen.
- Nanna
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"daring"Description:
Nanna is a name from Norse mythology that is among the Top 30 names in contemporary Denmark. Popular in Norway in the 19th century, Nanna may also be considered a short form of a range of names, from Anna to Johanna to Marianne. As widespread as it is in Scandinavia, though, it's hard to imagine Nanna making a mark as a girl's name in modern day America, given its use as a name for grandmothers.
- Nilsson
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"son of Nils"Description:
The son at the end of many Scandinavian names makes them more consistent with modern American name tastes. While Nilsson may be the proper Scandinavian form of the name, many English speakers will try to spell it Nilson or Nelson.