Favorite Scandinavian Boys Names

The last name of Finnish moderne designer/architect makes an original, creative choice with an unexpected water-related meaning.

Most American parents would choose to use the more commonly seen variant, Axel, but .this form is preferred in Denmark and Norway, and also ranks in the French Top 400.

Friendly, unusual, but a decidedly Old Country version of Andrew and one of the classic Scandinavian names. It made a brief appearance in the US Top 1000 in 2006 and then reentered in 2010. Its rising popularity could be attributed to the interest in Anderson, which has been gaining steadily over the last fifteen years.

Trivia tidbits: The patronymic Andersson is the second most popular surname in Sweden, and in Denmark, Donald Duck is called Anders.

A classic in its native Scandinavia, Axel has a cool rock 'n' roll flavor in the US, thanks to Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose (born William). With its distinctive letter 'x', it has an effortlessly cool vibe about it, and is currently growing in popularity.

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.

Christiansen is primarily a Scandinavian surname derived from 'Christian's son,' following the Nordic patronymic naming tradition. While traditionally a family name especially common in Denmark and Norway, it occasionally appears as a masculine given name, particularly in families honoring Scandinavian heritage. As a first name, Christiansen embodies both religious significance through its connection to 'Christian' and cultural ties to Nordic ancestry. Its usage as a given name remains relatively rare, making it distinctive for those who bear it. The name carries connotations of tradition, family legacy, and possibly religious devotion, reflecting its origins as a name indicating lineage from a forefather named Christian.

Enok is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, representing the Nordic version of the biblical Enoch. In the Old Testament, Enoch was a revered figure known for his righteousness and close relationship with God. The name carries the profound meaning of "dedicated" or "consecrated." Particularly popular in Norway, Sweden, and other Nordic countries, Enok has maintained a steady if modest presence throughout generations. Its simple yet distinctive sound combines traditional gravitas with accessibility. While less common internationally, the name has seen some renewed interest as parents increasingly look to Scandinavian naming traditions for inspiration. Enok offers a balance of biblical heritage and Nordic cultural connection.

While substituting a C for a K is a modern trend, Erik is in fact the traditional spelling of the name, derived from the Old Norse Eiríkr and introduced to the English speaking world in the Anglo-Saxon period. Now, Erik is popular in Scandinavia and throughout much of Central and Eastern Europe, where it ranks in the Top 100 in Germany, Slovenia, Hungary, and more.

Two prominent literary namesakes make Gregor a somewhat risky choice. On the highbrow side, there's Gregor Samsa, the Kafka character who woke up one day to find himself turned into a cockroach. And then there's Gregor Clegane, one of the most feared and purely evil characters in the world of Game of Thrones.

Henerik is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Henrik or Heinrich, names of Germanic origin meaning 'ruler of the home' or 'home ruler.' This specific spelling variation might reflect regional differences in pronunciation or represent a creative adaptation of the traditional forms. The name has deep historical roots throughout Europe, with numerous kings, princes, and nobles bearing variants of this name across Scandinavian, Germanic, and Eastern European countries. While this particular spelling is uncommon, the traditional forms have maintained steady popularity, especially in Nordic and Germanic countries. Henerik carries the same dignified, strong qualities as its more common variants while offering a distinctive spelling that sets it apart.

Hugo, the Latin form of Hugh, has more heft and energy than the original -- and of course we love names that end (or begin, for that matter) with an o. This one is especially appealing because it's backed up by lots of solid history and European style.

Ibsen is a literary hero name possibility, after the great Norwegian dramatist, Henrik I. The name Ib is a short form of Jacob, so you might consider Ibsen as an honorific for or a twin of a Jacob.

The surname name Jenson is in the British Top 100 thanks to champion race car driver Jenson Button. Jenson might be an honorific for an ancestral John, the English form of Jens or Johannes, or even Jen.

Kaj is a name that looks great on paper, but while it's pronounced with to rhyme with rye, it is sure to be pronounced by most people to rhyme with "raj" or, much worse, "Madge".

This Scandinavian spin on Christopher gives that enduring classic a lighter, more individual twist, though many may see it as simply a kree8iv spelling.

Leif is one of the most recognizable Scandinavian names, thanks to Icelandic explorer Leif Erikson, and is still one of the best, with a pleasant aural association with the word leaf.

Highly popular in Germany, Norway, Lithuania, and Austria, Lukas is a spelling variation of the also extremely popular Lucas. The "K" spelling gives it extra kick and a more international, globe-trotter feel.

Gives middle-aged Neil a new lease on life.

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.

Stellan is a strong, attractive, Scandinavian possible up-and-comer, known through actor Stellan Skarsgard, and his namesake, the son of Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany. Its trendy 'an' ending and the similarity in sound to the popular Kellen/Kellan make it all the more accessible.