Ancient Names From Antiquity

Ragna is a feminine name with deep Norse roots, derived from the Old Norse elements "regin" meaning "advice, counsel, or divine powers" and "ar" meaning "warrior." It can be interpreted as "warrior of the gods" or "divine counselor." Historically significant in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Iceland, Ragna was carried by several notable figures in Norse sagas. The name experienced a modest revival in the early 21st century as interest in Norse mythology and Viking heritage increased. Ragna projects an image of strength, wisdom, and connection to ancient traditions. Its distinctive sound and powerful meaning appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and feminine strength outside mainstream options.

Ragnvald is a masculine Norse name with deep historical roots in Scandinavian culture. Derived from the Old Norse elements 'regin' meaning 'counsel' or 'the gods' and 'valdr' meaning 'ruler,' Ragnvald essentially translates to 'ruler advised by the gods' or 'divine ruler.' This powerful name was borne by several Norwegian kings and earls during the Viking Age, including Ragnvald Eysteinsson, a 9th-century Norwegian earl. Though uncommon outside of Norway and Sweden today, Ragnvald represents a connection to Norse heritage and carries connotations of leadership, strength, and divine wisdom. The name has retained its traditional usage in Scandinavia while remaining relatively rare globally, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with authentic Norse origins and historical significance.

Regin is a masculine name with Norse mythological roots. In ancient Nordic legends, Regin was a dwarf smith and foster father to the hero Sigurd. The name carries connotations of craftsmanship, wisdom, and guidance. While relatively uncommon in modern usage, Regin appeals to parents interested in names from Norse mythology or those seeking something distinctive with historical depth. It has a strong, concise sound that works well in contemporary contexts despite its ancient origins. The name may also appear in variations across Scandinavian languages, maintaining its connection to Nordic heritage and mythology.

Widely used across Europe as a common baptismal name symbolizing spiritual rebirth, Renata, in this country it has an operatic image via Italian-born divas Renata Tebadi and Renata Scotti.

Name of the 7th century BC Greek lyric poet born on the island of Lesbos, whose name has been synonymous with lesbian love. Though this name is rarely used today, it certainly could be and, some might say, SHOULD be revived.

Name for a seventh child, back when people had them.

Seraphina is one of the most-searched name on Nameberry, destined for even greater popularity. The highest-ranking angels, the six-winged seraphim, inspired the lovely name Seraphina.

Though it has literary credentials--making an appearance in Jane Austen's Mansfield Park and as the mean-spirited teacher Severus Snape in the Harry Potter books, most modern parents would find it too--well--severe.

Idiosyncratic Icelandic singer Bjork chose this name from Norse mythology for her son. It's also an Indian place name.

Associated with the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates (often spelled Sokratis) is quite common in traditional Greek families, but for others, we think Plato (the name of his pupil) might be easier to handle for those wanting a philosopher-inspired choice.

Theron is best known these days as the surname of actress Charlize, but it does have a long history as a first name, ranking in the Top 500 in the early part of the 20th century and only dropping out of the Top 1000 in the early 1990s. Theon is a similar name made familiar by the popular series Game of Thrones: Might it and Theron rise in tandem?

The name of an important ancient Roman emperor, Tiberius might sound a bit heavy for a modern boy to carry, but with the rise of Atticus, Tiberius and brothers begin to feel more baby-friendly, much in the same way as Old Testament names like Elijah and Isaiah have been rejuvenated.