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Scandinavian names

minnarr
By minnarr
Updated Thu May 18 2023
  1. Agata

    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Polish, Slovene, Russian, Croatian, Serbian variation of Agatha

    • Description:

      Agata is an Agatha form widely used throughout Europe. And the hard t may be more appealing to your ear than the th sound.
  2. Anneli

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Annalie or Hannah

    • Meaning:

      "grace"

    • Description:

      Anneli is one of the hundreds of Anne variations with an intriguing spelling. This name has been popular throughout Scandinavia over time and would certainly translate easily to English-speaking countries.
  3. Asmund

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian

    • Meaning:

      "God is protector"

    • Description:

      This common Scandinavian name, also spelled Osmund, is only occasionally heard in this country.
  4. Berit

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Birgit

    • Meaning:

      "exalted one"

    • Description:

      Well used in northern Europe, almost unknown in the US, Berit is could make an off-beat alternative to Betty, Beth, or Merritt for those with Scandinavian ancestry.
  5. Dair

    • Description:

      Dair is a concise feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Gaelic word 'darach' meaning 'oak tree,' suggesting strength and endurance. Alternatively, it could be a variant of Dare or a shortened form of names like Daria. In some contexts, it might also relate to the Middle English word for daring or boldness. As a given name, Dair is quite uncommon, offering significant distinctiveness. Its brief, one-syllable structure gives it a modern, punchy quality while its nature-based origins connect it to traditional naming patterns. The name's simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across cultures while maintaining its unique character.
  6. Daven

    • Description:

      Daven is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be an Anglicized form of the Irish name Damhan (pronounced DAV-awn), meaning 'little stag,' or possibly a variant of Davin, a diminutive of David. In Hebrew, where David originates, the meaning is 'beloved.' The name has also gained some usage as a modern invented name, appreciated for its contemporary sound while maintaining a traditional feel. Daven has risen in popularity since the 1970s but remains relatively uncommon, giving it distinction without being completely unfamiliar. The name carries a strong yet accessible quality, with its two-syllable structure and familiar sounds making it easy to pronounce across cultures. Parents might choose Daven for its subtle connection to traditional names while still offering a fresh alternative to more common choices like David or Devin.

  7. Donalt

    • Description:

      Donalt is a masculine name that represents an uncommon variant spelling of Donald. The traditional Donald derives from the Scottish Gaelic name Dòmhnall, composed of the elements 'dumno' meaning 'world' and 'val' meaning 'rule' or 'mighty.' This alternative spelling with a 't' ending gives the name a slightly more archaic or Celtic feel. Donald has deep roots in Scottish heritage and was borne by numerous Scottish kings. The Donalt variant remains exceptionally rare, appealing to parents who may appreciate the traditional associations of Donald but desire a more distinctive appearance. The name carries connotations of strength and leadership regardless of spelling. Its rarity makes it an unconventional choice that still echoes familiar sounds and historical depth.

  8. Dorete

    • Description:

      Dorete is a feminine name with Scandinavian and Germanic roots. It can be considered a variant of Dorothy, which derives from the Greek name Dorothea, meaning 'gift of God.' In Danish and Norwegian cultures, Dorete has been used as an alternative form of Dorte or Dorthe. The name carries a classic, somewhat vintage appeal while remaining uncommon in English-speaking countries. Its melodic three-syllable structure gives it an elegant, flowing quality. Throughout history, the name has maintained consistent but modest usage in Northern European countries, appreciated for its refined sound and meaningful etymology.
  9. Dorthe

    • Description:

      Dorthe is a feminine name primarily found in Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark and Norway. It's a variation of Dorothy, ultimately derived from the Greek name Dorothea meaning 'gift of God.' Dorthe has a distinctly Nordic charm while maintaining connections to its more widely recognized counterpart. Though less common internationally, it enjoys moderate popularity in its countries of origin. The name carries a sense of traditional femininity with its soft ending, while still sounding strong and direct. Dorthe represents a cultural bridge between ancient Greek origins and Nordic heritage, offering a unique alternative for parents drawn to Scandinavian naming traditions or seeking a less common variant of Dorothy.
  10. Ebba

    • Origin:

      English or German

    • Meaning:

      "fortress of riches, or strength of a boar"

    • Description:

      Ebba, the feminine version of Eberhard and also a form of an old English name, is in the Swedish Top 10 but virtually unknown in the US. However, with the rise of Emma, Ella, Ada, and similar simple-yet-traditional names, Ebba may enjoy more widespread popularity.
  11. Eir

    • Origin:

      Norse

    • Meaning:

      "peacefulness, mercy"

    • Description:

      So airy, it's almost not there.
  12. Elin

    • Origin:

      Swedish variation of Ellen

    • Description:

      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.
  13. Else

    • Description:

      Else is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as both a standalone name and a short form of names containing the element 'Elis' such as Elisabeth or Elise. In German and Scandinavian cultures, Else has been used independently for centuries. The name carries a simple, clean elegance with its compact four-letter formation. In Danish and Norwegian, it's pronounced 'EL-seh,' while German speakers may say 'EL-zuh.' Despite its European popularity, Else remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but became less common after the 1940s. Today, it may appeal to parents seeking a minimalist yet classic name with European flair.

  14. Evert

    • Origin:

      English, variation of Everett, from German Eberhard

    • Meaning:

      "brave boar"

    • Description:

      Though you might have been a fan of tennis star Chris Evert, stick with EVERETT, which everyone will think you're saying anyway.
  15. Frey

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian

    • Meaning:

      "lord, exalted one"

    • Description:

      Frey is the handsome Norse fertility god, a worthy namesake. Frey remains rare in the US even as the similar Freya picks up in popularity.
  16. Gries

    • Description:

      Gries is an extremely uncommon masculine name with Germanic origins. It primarily exists as a German and Dutch surname derived from Middle High German 'gries' meaning 'sand' or 'gravel,' likely originally referring to someone who lived near a sandy area. As a given name, Gries is exceptionally rare, representing the modern trend of adopting surnames as first names. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and distinctive consonant combination. Its rarity makes it virtually unique as a first name, appealing to parents seeking a truly distinctive option with Germanic roots. Gries might also connect to place names in Northern Italy and Austria, potentially making it meaningful for families with connections to these regions. While challenging to pronounce for those unfamiliar with Germanic names, its brevity helps make it accessible.
  17. Haldan

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian

    • Meaning:

      "half Danish"

    • Description:

      If you fit this definition, this might be a clever choice, especially as a middle name.
  18. Hanne

    • Origin:

      Danish, Norwegian, German, Dutch

    • Meaning:

      "grace"

    • Description:

      This spin on the popular Hannah is widely-used in Europe and pronounced similarly to Hannah. It may also be a short form of Johanne, from John/Joan.
  19. Hedda

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian, diminutive of Hedvig

    • Description:

      Hedda is a card-carrying member of the league of older, slightly bohemian urban names like Nedda, Andra, and Petra; also linked to Ibsen heroine Hedda Gabler, as well as being the basis of cruel joke names like Hedda Hare.
  20. Helsa

    • Origin:

      Danish

    • Meaning:

      "god is my oath"

    • Description:

      This Danish diminutive of Elizabeth could be a sweet, less-Frozen alternative to Elsa.