Scandinavian & Beautiful

This gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, is being discovered in a major way by parents in the US. It's most closely identified with the nineteenth century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, but there have been modern fictional Sorens as well, in The Matrix Reloaded and the book series Guardians of Ga'Hoole, Charlie and Lola, and Underworld.

The new Maia, the next Kayla, Kaia has been on the charts since the year 2000. You might see it as a female form of the also-rising Kai, which means sea in Hawaiian and is sometimes used for girls as well, or as a Kardashianization of the ancient goddess name Caia.

This ancient name, also spelled Caspar, is finally shedding its ghostly image and moving into the 21st century. Popular in the Netherlands and Scandinavia, where it's sometimes shortened to Cas, Casper could ride the style coattails of cousin Jasper.

Sunniva was an Irish-born saint who fled to Norway, where she hid in an island cave with her followers and eventually died. After miracles were reported on the island, the cave was excavated and Sunniva's intact body was found. Sunniva is the patron saint of Western Norway. Her name would make a fascinating and unusual choice for a modern baby girl, and if her story is a bit grim, you can take refuge in the upbeat nickname Sunny or Sunni.

Linnea is an attractive Scandinavian name that derives from the renowned 18th century Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, who developed the Linnean system of classifying plants and animals.

Juni is the Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of the month name June. While Juni feels cute and fresh, most Americans would assume it was a nickname or a Joni variation. We prefer Juna or the English June.

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.

Creative gem perfect for an architect's son, in tribute to modern Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen.

Esa is a masculine name with multicultural origins. In Finnish, it's a traditional name meaning 'God is my salvation' or 'God helps,' equivalent to the biblical name Isaiah. In Arabic cultures, Esa (عيسى) is the name for Jesus, making it a name of profound religious significance. The name's brevity gives it a modern appeal despite its ancient origins. Esa has remained consistently used in Finland and various Muslim communities, though it's relatively uncommon in Western countries. Its cross-cultural presence, meaningful spiritual connections, and simple pronunciation make it attractive to parents seeking a name with depth that works well internationally.

The Elin variation makes an old favorite sleeker and more modern. Elin came to prominence via the ex-Mrs.Tiger Woods and is now perhaps best known via novelist Elin Hildebrand.. It entered the US Top 1000 in 2010, though it's now dropped off again.

Cute and quirky Lily alternative.

An attractive Scandinavian take on Helga, or a potential Helen nickname.

Works better as a full name than Arnie does as a nickname.

Lovisa is a Scandinavian feminine name, particularly popular in Sweden, derived from Louise, which ultimately comes from the Germanic name Ludwig, meaning 'famous warrior' or 'renowned fighter.' Despite its martial origins, Lovisa has a gentle, melodic quality that feels both elegant and approachable. The name has deep historical roots in Nordic countries dating back centuries, where it has been borne by several notable figures including Swedish royalty. While not widely used outside Scandinavia, Lovisa offers an appealing option for parents seeking a name with European flair and subtle connection to the more common Louise or Louisa.

One of the most popular names in Scandinavia, Freja--or Freyja--was a major deity of Norse paganism. Beautiful, blonde and blue-eyed, she was the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. In the US, the name is most likely spelled Freya.

A name from medieval romance with an endearingly clunky sound, à la Sherlock. The most famous modern wearer was twentieth-century psychologist/sexologist Havelock (born Henry) Ellis.

Joakim is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, representing a Scandinavian and Eastern European form of Joachim. Derived from the Hebrew name Yehoyakim, meaning 'established by God' or 'God will raise,' Joakim carries strong religious and historical significance. Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and parts of Eastern Europe, the name has maintained steady usage throughout centuries. Joakim became internationally recognized partly through notable bearers including basketball player Joakim Noah and various European athletes and artists. The name blends biblical heritage with a contemporary Scandinavian feel, offering a distinctive yet accessible choice. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Joakim provides an international alternative with both cultural depth and modern appeal.

Few Scandinavian names make the journey to America...and this one shows you why. Still, names such as Freya and Odin are making an unlikely comeback, so we wouldn't count any of the Scandinavian baby names out forever.

Pelle is one of several possible Peter-related Scandinavian choices. In Swedish or Norwegian, the name Pelle rhymes roughly with Ella.

A Danish name relating back to the Greek Apollo.