Scandinavian Names that Start With S

Sigrid is a distinctly Scandinavian name that is starting to edge out into the wider world, a la cousin Ingrid. Unfortunately, short form Siri is now off the table, but Sigrid is still a possibility.

Signe could make an offbeat, more unusual alternative to Sydney or Sigrid. In Norse mythology, Signe was the twin sister of Sigmund. Can also be spelled Signy.

Common in Scandinavia, this name has rarely come to our shores. The name of the heroine in Ibsen's Peer Gynt, Solveig is currently a widely-used name in Norway. Pronounced authentically, with a silent 'g', it becomes much more appealing.

Early European import, well known in the 1940s via Norwegian skating movie star Sonja Henie, that has sailed back across the Atlantic, despite the rising popularity of other Russian names.

Especially for parents of Scandinavian descent, Sven is an accessible and attractive name with an appealing mix of strength and swagger. It comes from the ancient Swedish tribe, the Sviars, who gave their name to Svealand, which later morphed into Sweden.

Sander is a more conventional form of Zander or Xander, heard frequently on its own in Europe. It is now a Top 20 name in Norway, and is also popular in Denmark, Belgium and the Netherlands. 

This old Norse name is still used in contemporary Scandinavia. An ancient hero's name, Sigurd got a modern boost from a heroic figure in television's The Vikings.

If you're ready to move beyond Anna and Hannah, consider this traditional Scandinavian short form of Susanna, historically very popular in its native lands.

Siri is a charming and lively Scandinavian name that is no longer on the table given the ubiquity of Apple's digital Siri. Too bad, because Siri -- along with variations Syrie and Cyrie -- is unique, enchanting, and adorable. But now taken.

Once popular (and still familiar) in Norway, Stian could make an interesting choice for anyone with northern European roots. It is a modern form of the Norse Stígandr, with its appealing, wanderer meaning.

This sparkling name from Norse Mythology is borne by the blacksmith dwarf, who, along with his brother Brokkr, forged Thor's hammer Mjǫllnir and Odin's golden ring, Draupnir. Also known as Eitri in mythology, his name means "sparkling" or "someone who sprays sparks", likely in reference to his work with metal.

Suren as a feminine name is relatively uncommon, as it is traditionally a masculine name in Armenian and Indian cultures. In Armenian, Suren means "powerful" or "majestic," derived from the Persian name Surena. In Indian contexts, particularly Sanskrit, it can mean "deity" or "warrior." As a feminine name, Suren represents a bold cross-cultural choice that carries strong connotations of strength and dignity. The gender-neutral quality of this name makes it appealing to parents looking for unique names that break traditional gender associations. While rare for girls, it offers a distinctive option with rich cultural significance and a powerful sound that combines softness with strength.

Syrin is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a modern variation of Siren, referencing the enchanting mythological creatures of Greek mythology known for their captivating songs. Alternatively, it could be related to the word "syrinx," which refers to a type of pan pipe instrument in Greek mythology. This connection gives the name musical associations and a lyrical quality.

The Steen, Steena, and Stina nicknames for Christina are much more common in Scandinavia than in the English-speaking world, which prefers the Chris variations.

Sigvard is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, particularly common in Sweden and Norway. It combines the Old Norse elements 'sigr' meaning 'victory' and 'varðr' meaning 'guardian' or 'defender,' thus translating roughly to 'victorious guardian.' The name has deep historical roots, having been borne by several Swedish nobles and royals, including Prince Sigvard Bernadotte (1907-2002), son of King Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden. Despite its noble heritage, Sigvard has never been widely used outside Scandinavia. The name carries strong connotations of protection, triumph, and Nordic heritage. Its distinct sound and spelling make it recognizable yet uncommon, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and cultural significance.