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Names I love

  1. James

    • Origin:

      English variation of Jacob, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "supplanter"

    • Description:

      James is one of the classic Anglo-Saxon names, a stalwart through the ages that is more popular—and yes, stylish—than ever today. It recently came out Number 1 in a poll of America's favorite boys' baby names, and is the most common male name, counting people of all ages, in the US.
  2. Jann

    • Description:

      Jann is a masculine name with multiple origins, functioning as a variant of Jan (the Dutch, Polish, and Scandinavian form of John) or as a shortened form of Jannik. Ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious," Jann maintains the same essential meaning while offering a more streamlined spelling. The doubled 'n' gives the name a distinctive look compared to the more common Jan. Popular in parts of Northern Europe, particularly Germany, Denmark, and Switzerland, Jann remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name's brevity and strong consonant ending give it a clean, modern feel despite its ancient origins, making it appealing to parents seeking a short, international name with traditional roots.

  3. Janne

    • Origin:

      Danish and Norwegian diminutive of Johanna

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      This common name for both boys and girls in Scandinavia would definitely work better as a feminine name in the U.S.
  4. Jesper

    • Description:

      Jesper is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, particularly popular in Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands. It developed as a variation of the name Jasper, which derives from Persian meaning "treasurer" or "keeper of the treasure." In Nordic countries, Jesper has maintained steady popularity for generations, appreciated for its strong yet approachable sound. The name combines traditional roots with a modern feel, making it increasingly recognized internationally. While still uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jesper has gained modest recognition through literary characters, sports figures, and cultural exchange. It offers parents a distinctive yet accessible option that works well across multiple languages and cultures.

  5. Jonas

    • Origin:

      Greek variation of Jonah

    • Meaning:

      "dove"

    • Description:

      Jonas has a slightly more grandfatherly image than the English version of his name, but that only adds to its retro appeal. And though it may lag behind Jonah in this country, Jonas is riding a huge wave of popularity in Europe, where it ranks highly in Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Norway.
  6. JONNE
    • Julius

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "youthful, downy-bearded"

      • Description:

        Immortal through its association with the ancient Caesar (it was his clan name), Julius may still lag behind Julian, but is definitely starting to make a comeback, and in fact feels more cutting edge, in line with the current trend for Latin -us endings.
    • Juno

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "queen of the heavens; young"

      • Description:

        Juno is an ancient name that feels as fresh as if it had been minted, well, not yesterday, but in 2007. Since the release of the popular indie film Juno, this lively but strong Roman goddess name has held new potential as a baby name. Currently in the UK Top 500 and used in The Netherlands too, Juno is on the rise in the US - and is 15 times more popular than it was before the release of the film.
    • Justus

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "just"

      • Description:

        More unusual than Justin, less word-like than Justice, this New Testament name could make an intriguing choice. After being off the popularity lists from 1904 to 1993, it is now being used in steady numbers.
    • Jytte

      • Description:

        Jytte is a feminine Danish name with Norse roots, functioning as a Danish form of Judith. The original Hebrew name Judith means 'woman from Judea' or 'praised,' while Jytte has evolved its own distinct Scandinavian identity. This name gained significant popularity in Denmark throughout the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s. While less commonly given to newborns today, it remains a recognized name that carries a sense of Danish heritage and tradition. Jytte features a characteristic Scandinavian brevity and directness in pronunciation. Outside of Denmark and Scandinavian communities, the name is quite rare, offering a unique cultural connection for those who bear it.
    • Kasper

      • Origin:

        Polish variation of Casper, form of Jasper, Persian

      • Meaning:

        "bringer of treasure"

      • Description:

        Jasper and its many international variations, from Kasper to Casper to Gaspard, is finding new popularity.
    • Lasse

      • Origin:

        Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of Laurence, Latin

      • Meaning:

        "from Laurentum; bay laurel"

      • Description:

        Well used throughout The Netherlands, Germany, Norway, and Denmark, Lasse is a variation of Laurence, typically used as a nickname for the related Lars. While English speakers may be tempted to say "lass" or "lassie", the correct pronunciation would LA-suh in Denmark, LAHS-seh in Norway and Finland, and LA-seh in Sweden and Germany.
    • Laurel

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "laurel tree"

      • Description:

        Laurel takes Laura back to its meaning in nature, resulting in a gentle, botanical option. Even more directly than Laura, Laurel relates back to the laurel wreath signifying success and peace in ancient Greece and Rome.
    • Lena

      • Origin:

        English, Scottish, Dutch, German, and Scandinavian, diminutive of various names ending in -lena

      • Description:

        This pet form of Helena and other ena-ending names, long used as an independent name, is attracting notice again as an option both multicultural and simple. Lena was a Top 100 name from 1880 to 1920.
    • Liv

      • Origin:

        Diminutive of Olivia, English, Norse

      • Meaning:

        "olive tree; life, protection"

      • Description:

        Liv combines the succinct charm of a nickname—people might assume it's short for Olivia—with the solidity of being a classic stand-alone Scandinavian name with a life-force meaning. It was brought into the public eye (in the English speaking world that is) due to the fame of actress and Aerosmith daughter Liv Tyler.
    • Lucie

      • Origin:

        French, English

      • Meaning:

        "light"

      • Description:

        The French spelling of Lucy feels particularly light and shimmery.
    • Lykke

      • Origin:

        Swedish and Danish

      • Meaning:

        "happiness, good fortune"

      • Description:

        Sweet Lykke, virtually unknown in English-speaking countries, is one of the top girl names in Sweden.
    • Mads

      • Origin:

        Danish variation of Matthew

      • Meaning:

        "gift of God"

      • Description:

        Mads is a perennial favorite in Germany, the Nordic countries, and the Netherlands, where it is usually to be found in the Top 50. Just remember the D is not pronounced. Famous bearers include Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, the villain of the Bond film "Casino Royale".
    • Magnus

      • Origin:

        Scandinavian from Latin

      • Meaning:

        "greatest"

      • Description:

        Magnus is a Latin name, literally meaning "greatest," that has a Scandinavian feel. It dates back to Charlemagne being called Carolus Magnus, or Charles the Great. Norwegian king Magnus I, named after Charlemagne, introduced it to his culture, and thus Magnus was the name of six early kings of Norway and four of Sweden. It is still a highly popular name in Denmark and Norway.
    • MALTHE