300+ Viking Names
- Isak
Description:
Isak is a Scandinavian and Eastern European variant of Isaac, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' This spelling is particularly common in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and parts of Eastern Europe. The Biblical Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah, giving the name deep religious significance in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Isak has maintained steady popularity in Scandinavian countries, appreciating its clean, simple sound. In recent years, the name has gained international appeal as parents seek distinctive alternatives to more common biblical names. Notable bearers include Swedish writer Isak Dinesen (pen name of Karen Blixen) and various European athletes and artists.
- Efi
Description:
Efi is a short, crisp masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Greek tradition, it often serves as a diminutive for Efstratios or Efthimios, names meaning 'good army' and 'cheerful' respectively. In Nigerian culture, particularly among the Efik and Ibibio peoples, Efi has indigenous roots. The name's brevity gives it a modern, accessible quality that crosses cultural boundaries easily. With just two syllables, Efi offers simplicity while remaining distinctive. Though not widely used in Western countries, its multicultural appeal and contemporary sound make it an increasingly attractive option for parents seeking something brief yet meaningful. The name carries a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining masculine strength.
- Skarde
Origin:
Danish from Old NorseMeaning:
"notch, hack"Description:
Skarde is ultimately derived from the Old Norse byname Skarði, which referred to someone with a cleft chin.
- Sten
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"a stone"Description:
Once a short form of names containing this syllable, it is now used on its own, though we'd prefer Sven.
- Hildur
Origin:
IcelandicMeaning:
"battle"Description:
Hildur is the Icelandic variant of Hildr, an Old Norse name used for a valkyrie in Norse mythology.
- Hvitserk
Origin:
Old NorseMeaning:
"white shirt"
- Skathi
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"harm, damage"Description:
Skathi is an Anglicized spelling of Skaði, a Scandinavian goddess associated with winter, skiing, bowhunting and mountains. Skathi, also spelled Skadi, is also a moon of Saturn.
- Benedikt
Description:
Benedikt is the Germanic and Eastern European spelling of Benedict, a name with Latin origins meaning 'blessed.' This variant is particularly popular in countries like Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and other Central European nations. The name carries significant historical and religious weight, as it was borne by Saint Benedict of Nursia, who founded the Benedictine monastic order in the 6th century. It also recalls Pope Benedict XVI, who was born Joseph Ratzinger in Bavaria, Germany. Benedikt has a strong, classic feel with the distinctive 'k' ending giving it a slightly more rugged quality than its Latin counterpart. While maintaining its traditional appeal across Central Europe, the name has seen increased international recognition in recent decades. It offers parents a name with deep historical roots and positive spiritual associations.
- Hrafn
Origin:
IcelandicMeaning:
"raven"Description:
An Icelandic name, derived from Old Norse.
- Osvald
Description:
Osvald is a masculine name of Germanic and Scandinavian origin, derived from the elements 'os' meaning 'god' and 'wald' meaning 'power' or 'ruler.' Essentially, the name translates to 'divine power' or 'god's ruler.' Historically prominent in Nordic countries, particularly Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, Osvald represents a distinguished heritage. While less common in modern usage, it maintains appeal for parents seeking strong traditional names with historical significance. The English variant Oswald is more recognized in English-speaking countries. Osvald carries an air of nobility and strength, evoking images of Viking heritage and Scandinavian tradition with its distinctive and powerful sound.
- Torbjörn
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"Thor's bear"Description:
A Swedish old-man name that is currently attracting more attention in its country of origin. It might be a hard sell in the English-speaking world, but a similar name like Torben or Torsten — or even just Tor — could function as a substitute.
- Floki
Origin:
Old NorseMeaning:
"tuft of hair; outspoken man"Description:
Lovers of Loki who don't appreciate the overt mythological reference might like this unusual Icelandic name.
- Hjörtur
Origin:
IcelandicMeaning:
"deer"Description:
A handsome Icelandic nature name also used in very small numbers in Sweden and Denmark.
- Ingolf
Origin:
Old Danish and Old SwedishMeaning:
"Ing's wolf"
- Kári
Origin:
Variation of Kárr, Old NorseMeaning:
"curly hair"Description:
A name with Old Norse roots that at one time existed alongside the name Kárr, although Kári is the dominant form today. In recent years, it's been common in Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
- Svala
Origin:
NordicMeaning:
"swallow (bird)"Description:
A striking Nordic name with ancient roots, Svala (and its less common variant form Svale) derive from the Old Norse name for the swallow. This could be a great choice for nature lovers and fans of Edith Piaf (piaf being a term for a swallow).
- Magni
Origin:
NordicMeaning:
"great"Description:
Magni is a powerful name from Norse mythology: he’s the son of Thor and the giant Járnsaxa. A more modern variant is Magne, which is currently climbing fast in Denmark.
- Dagr
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"daylight"Description:
Ancient Norse variation of Dag.
- Brigida
Description:
Brigida is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from the Celtic name Brighid, meaning "exalted one" or "high one." In Irish mythology, Brighid was a goddess of poetry, healing, and smithcraft. The name gained widespread use through Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland's patron saints. Brigida is the Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian form of the name, while Bridget is more common in English-speaking countries. Though not frequently used in the United States, Brigida remains moderately popular in countries with Latin-based languages. The name carries connotations of strength, wisdom, and spiritual devotion, appealing to parents seeking a name with both historical depth and multicultural appeal.
- Sif
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"bride"Description:
Sif, or sometimes Siv, was the name of Thor's wife and is popular in modern Scandinavia. In Norse mythology, Sif was the goddess of fertility and agriculture.