Scandinavian Names that Start With R

Fairly popular a hundred years ago but out of the US charts since 1978, the quirky yet edgy Roscoe feels very much in step with the trending o-ending boy names popular now, such as Milo, Hugo, and Otto. A Top 1000 choice in the UK (albeit near the latter end), it could make a cool alternative to Ross, Russell, Robert, and Ronan.

A strong, if slightly dated sounding choice, Ronald made the US Top 10 in the late 1930s through into the mid-1940s, before it became heavily associated with President Reagan, as well as with the McDonald franchise mascot. More recently, it has appeared in the Harry Potter series, borne by Ronald "Ron" Weasley, while others may immediately think of its rhyme, Donald. All of these factors may work against Ronald making a big resurgence, but popular nickname Ronnie might make others reconsider.

An fearsome old Norse name with a long history in Scandinavia. It's gotten a boost in the States from popularity of the History Channel drama "Vikings," in which the protagonist is named Ragnar. Ragnar Lodbrok (meaning "shaggy pants") was a legendary warrior whose story was told in the Viking sagas. Ragnar also recalls name of the Norse Judgment Day, Ragnarök.

As an Arabic name, Rania is a variation of Raniya, ultimately derived from the Arabic word ranā meaning "to gaze" or "side look". Other descendants of this root include Ranya and Rana itself. Familiar in the UK, Spain, the Netherlands and France, Rania is currently borne by Rania Al Abdullah, Queen of Jordan.

Pippi Longstocking author Astrid Lindgren invented the name Ronja for her book Ronja, the Robber's Daughter. She was inspired by the lake Juronjaure, located in Norrbotten, Sweden.

A favorite in Near Eastern cultures, with a charming meaning.

While this may look like an animal related word name to those unfamiliar with it, Roar is a Norwegian name derived from the Old Norse element hróðr meaning "fame". combined with either herr meaning "warrior" or "geirr meaning "spear". It can also be spelled as Hroar.

A modern form of the Old Norse Ragnvaldr and a relation of Reginald, Renaud, Ronald, and Reynold, Ragnvald is a rugged and strong name used predominantly in Norway and Sweden. Notable bearers include Scandinavian nobleman, Ragnvald Ulfsson the Old, footballer Ragnvald Soma, and illustrator and editor Ragnvald Blix.

Pretty but slight.

Rickarda is a feminine name that represents the female form of Richard, which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'powerful' and 'brave' or 'hardy.' This strong name carries connotations of leadership and courage. While less common than its male counterpart, Rickarda has appeared occasionally throughout European history, particularly in Germanic and Scandinavian regions. The name offers potential nicknames such as Ricki, Ricky, or Rica. Though relatively rare in contemporary usage, Rickarda may appeal to parents seeking a feminine name with historical depth that still conveys strength and resilience. Its distinctiveness makes it stand out while maintaining connections to the more familiar Richard.

Apt to be confused with Raquel.

Original and straightforward, but with little appeal.

Pronounced ROOT in its native land, but in a rut here.