Old Norse

Alda's brother name Aldo has been a mainstay of the U.S. popularity chart for decades now, and the related Alden is soaring up as well. This version has never really caught on. (Maybe it's the association with Alan Alda: great actor, unlikely namesake for a little girl.) However, there is possible hope now that Alba and Alma are on the rise. Aida and Arden are more familiar alternatives.

This minimalist name is frequently heard in Norway, but has little chance of acceptance in the US.

This Welsh nature name that can be pronounced exactly like the male Ira. Or, to avoid confusion, you could just name her Snow.

Eirik is a masculine name of Old Norse origin and is a traditional Scandinavian variant of Erik or Eric. The name derives from the elements 'ei' (ever, always) and 'ríkr' (ruler, king, mighty), thus meaning 'eternal ruler' or 'ever powerful.' Particularly common in Norway, this spelling preserves the authentic Nordic heritage of the name. Eirik was borne by several Norwegian kings and figures in Norse sagas, including Eirik Bloodaxe. While less common internationally than Erik, this spelling offers cultural authenticity appealing to those with Scandinavian heritage or those seeking a strong name with historical depth and a slightly distinctive spelling.

Elida is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. In Greek tradition, it's connected to Elis, an ancient Greek district and city, offering historical depth. The name also appears in Norse mythology as a variant of Hlíð, meaning 'slope' or 'hillside.' In Spanish-speaking communities, Elida has gained modest popularity, possibly as a variation of Elidia or Adelida. The name possesses a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft consonants. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Elida has maintained consistent, if minimal, usage throughout the 20th century. The name strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness—recognizable in structure but uncommon enough to stand out. Its cross-cultural presence makes it versatile for families with diverse heritage connections.

Freya has long been popular in the U.K. but has only taken off in the US in the last decade, along with the entire category of mythological names. Derived from the Old Norse name Freyja, meaning "Lady, noble woman", Freya is the name of the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.

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.

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.

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.

Windswept and dramatic, but perhaps asking for trouble. Quite popular in Denmark and Sweden, where it derives from Stromr, which is a fairly common surname. Storm Thorgerson is a famous bearer of the name - he designed iconic album covers for Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, the Cranberries, Anthrax, and Pink Floyd.