358 Timeless Norse Baby Names With Cultural Significance

Express your love for all things Nordic with a Norse name for your little angel.

Written by Kavita Kankani, MBA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 7 years

Kavita has a diverse background in finance, human resources, and teaching. She did her MBA in Finance and HR at Solapur University, and bachelor in Education at Pune University. After working for three years in the banking industry, Kavita took up teaching before moving to writing.

Read full bio of Kavita Kankani

Edited by Akshay Nair, MA Specialty: Love, Marriage, RelationshipsExperience: 4.5 years

Akshay is an associate editor and former journalist with more than four years of experience. A post graduate in Mass Communication and Journalism, he has strong professional and academic background in the field of content writing and editing.

Read full bio of Akshay Nair

Fact-checked by N Pravenchandra Singh, MA Specialty: Literature and RelationshipsExperience: 2 years

Praven is an English literature expert. He did his bachelors in English from Delhi University and masters in English from Manipur University. Besides, he holds a certificate in multimedia design and content creation from NIELIT Imphal and presented papers at various national and international conferences.

Read full bio of N Pravenchandra Singh

Last Updated on Jul 24, 2024

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Welcome to the captivating world of Norse baby names, where history and symbolism intertwine to offer a delightful array of choices. These names have traveled far beyond mythologies and ancient tales, resonating with parents who seek distinctive and meaningful names for their little bundles of joy. Norse names are no longer restricted to Scandinavia. They spread all over the world, either through migration or invasion.

Whether you prefer rough and tough names like Solveig and Dag, which reflect the spirit of gods, warfare, and heroes, or gentle and elegant options like Liv and Elin, inspired by nature and spirituality, Norse names provide a wide variety for every child. These names are deeply rooted in cultural significance, representing the values and beliefs of ancient Norse communities, giving your child's identity an extra layer of depth.

In the traditional Norse custom, surnames were a way to honor one's ancestry, with children often carrying their father's surname, followed by '-dottir' for daughters and '-son' for sons. This practice not only ties children to their family lineage but also echoes the sense of unity and kinship that defined Norse society.

The influence of television shows like 'Vikings,' featuring striking characters such as Ragnar Lothbrok, Rollo, Lagertha, and Bjorn, has further kindled the fascination for Norse baby names among parents. These shows' epic tales of valor, resilience, and exploration have left a lasting impression on viewers, inspiring them to delve into the captivating world of Norse names.

Whether you feel a strong connection to Nordic heritage or are simply drawn to the profound meanings of these names, we have compiled the finest Norse baby names for you. Explore the world of Norse baby names and embark on a journey that goes beyond time and location. In this timeless collection of names, you'll find the perfect mix of history, meaning, and uniqueness for your little one. Your child's name will become a cherished story passed down to future generations.

Name	Gender	Meaning
Beckett	Boy	Beehive; Stream
Eric	Boy	Eternal ruler
Odin	Boy	Ecstacy; Fury
Kason	Boy	An enclosure for calves; Calf town; Fruit; Village; Mist
Mac	Boy	Son of; Great; Horse; Border; Guard; Screen; Curtain
Howard	Boy	High defender; Chief guardian; Heart-brave
Siya	Girl	A woman who always wins
Sia	Girl	Understanding; Cognziant; To perceive; Summer; Resurrection
Elvis	Boy	All-wise; Sage; Friend; Wine; Elf
Oskar	Boy	God's spear; Deer's friend

Oden	Boy	Dearest human being
Kasyn	Boy	Calf enclosure; A town of calves
Lathan	Boy	Barn; From the farmstead
Broderick	Boy	Son of Rhydderch; Descendant of Bruadar; Brother
Holt	Boy	Forest; A small wood or grove of trees; Forested land
Roscoe	Boy	A roebuck of the forests
Lamont	Boy	Man of law; Lawyer; Upstream
Kirk	Boy	Of the Lord; Church
Runa	Girl	Rune; Secret lore
Olen	Boy	Private spectator; Secret observer

Roran	Boy	Strong; Courageous; Leader
Kalli	Girl	Most beautiful; Army; Man
Olan	Boy	Long-lasting; Not easily destroyed
Kelby	Boy	Dweller at a farm near a spring or well
Ole	Boy	Framework that supports climbing plants
Arkyn	Boy	Eternal king's son.
Kalman	Boy	Remainder; Dove; Beautiful name
Ricki	Girl	One who is a peaceful and complete ruler of men
Hari	Boy	Brown; Yellow; Tawny; Hindu god Vishnu; Lion; Horse; Monkey; To shine; Ruler of the home; High
Latham	Boy	Barn

Osmond	Boy	A protected human being
Tuck	Boy	An experienced and passionate individual
Manning	Boy	A brave or valiant man; descendant of Mainnín (Monk)
Osborne	Boy	The warrior of God's army, the spiritual bear
Alvis	Boy	Wise
Fenris	Boy	Name of a mythical monster
Fin	Boy	Peace; Sámi people from Finland
Tor	Boy	The god of thunder
Lagertha	Girl	Warrior queen
Skadi	Girl	A name of the winter goddess; A frost giant

Olanda	Boy	One with accumulated wealth of money and jewels
Jersey	Boy	Grassy island; Geirr's island
Beyla	Girl	Cow; Little bean; Little swelling; Bee
Aesir	Boy	Of the Gods
Gerrie	Girl	The one who rules with a mighty spear
Tora	Girl	Tigress; Thunder
Agata	Girl	Good; Agate
Zyren	Unisex	Unique; Powerful; Mysterious
Nivek	Boy	Victorious; Strong; Independent
Ailsa	Girl	Hailing from Ailsa Craig; Elf victory

Booth	Boy	Shelter; Hut; Dwelling
Floki	Boy	A heroic viking.
Haskell	Boy	God strengthens; God's helmet
Kell	Boy	Bright-headed; War; Church; Strife; Slender; From the spring
Torri	Girl	A form of tori
Olaf	Boy	Ancestor; Grand father
Tron	Boy	One who is growing, ascending, and increasing
Bolin	Boy	Related to a farm; Bold; Elder brother rain; In the bag
Casson	Boy	Hiding place; Calf enclosure; Son of a box maker
Gamble	Boy	An elderly person

Jara	Girl	Seagulls; Rockrose; To set free; Helmeted warrior; Mother; Spring
Eivor	Unisex	Warrior, brave, strong
Hee	Girl	Shining; Clear; Hill; Mound; On the heath
Kjell	Boy	Kettle; Cauldron; Helmet
Magni	Boy	Mighty, powerful, strength
Osborn	Boy	The warrior of God
Kasen	Girl	Calf; An enclosure of calves; Flower fan
Thorson	Unisex	Son of Thor
Valdemar	Unisex	Ruler of power and protection
Vick	Unisex	Victorious, strong, noble

Armod	Boy	Name of Geirleif's blood brother
Carr	Boy	Marsh; Thicket; Copse; Short of height
Atla	Unisex	Water; Fountain
Ellika	Girl	Ever ruler; Torch; Moon
Gyda	Girl	Beautiful; Beloved
Hela	Girl	Goddess of the underworld
Eisa	Girl	Glowing embers; Yahweh is salvation; God is salvation
Freyr	Boy	Norse God of weather
Jule	Girl	Downy-bearded; Devoted to Jove; Goth or Geat
Kidd	Boy	Young deer or goat; Kid

Senua	Unisex	Mysterious or enigmatic
Knute	Boy	Knot
Swae	Unisex	Brilliant and bright
Trana	Girl	A bird or a sorceress
Nekisha	Girl	A dearly loved person; Loved by all
Trig	Boy	A trustworthy or a safe person, a true person
Kelda	Girl	Spring; Fountain
Finna	Girl	Sámi people from Finland; Wanderer
Rhona	Girl	Rough island; Ruler's advisor; Holy spear
Hildy	Girl	Battle; Ready for battle; Battle woman

Rika	Girl	A woman who is going to stay strong forever
Mey	Girl	Girl; Gorgeous; Pretty; Stunning; Chinese plum; Roman goddess of spring
Ricci	Girl	A woman who is ever-strong
Torunn	Girl	The love of thunder God; Mother of bishop
Odina	Girl	Nap; Impassiveness
Lene	Girl	A distinguished person
Sieglinde	Girl	Victory; Soft; Flexible
Aegelmaer	Girl	A little spruce tree; Daughter of grass snake
Aegir	Boy	A water giant; A sea monster
Aeldiet	Boy	One who is of fire

1 2 3 4 »

Beyond being mere labels, these Norse baby names carry their own tale. These names bestow identity and carry a legacy of strength and wisdom. Whether you love Nordic heritage or appreciate these names, it may help connect you to its roots. Embrace this saga of names, and may your child's name be a timeless tale of valor, wisdom, and love, leaving a mark on the world.

Infographic: Mighty Norse Baby Names

From wisdom to mercy, lordship to youthfulness, Norse baby names symbolize virtues and qualities deeply rooted in Norse culture and mythology. We present a few carefully selected Norse baby names deeply connected to the Norse way of life. Check out this infographic to find the perfect name for your little one and embrace the Norse heritage.

Some thing wrong with infographic shortcode. please verify shortcode syntax

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Norse baby names be used for both boys and girls?

Gender-neutral Norse baby names like Aelfhun (A mystical favor from God), Raven (A black bird), Sky (The sky or clouds), and Tappen (The top of a hanging rock) can be used for both boys and girls.

2. Can I use a Norse baby name if I am not of Norse descent?

People often choose names from diverse cultures to embrace and honor their heritage, celebrate the richness of different traditions, or because they resonate with the values and meanings of the names. Thus, if the unique-sounding Norse names appeal to you, you may choose a name while respecting and considering the traditional customs.

3. What are specific customs or rituals associated with Norse baby naming?

In Norse tradition, a baby naming ceremony is held nine nights following the child's birth, signifying their viability. On the tenth day, the ceremony takes place, where the child receives a name. This act symbolized their legal belonging to the family and inheritance rights, emphasizing the importance of their identity and lineage within the Norse community.

4. How important is the meaning of a name in Norse culture?

In Norse culture, names carry important significance as they are believed to influence the bearer's personality. Additionally, Norse names are considered to have protective qualities, especially the Viking age-inspired names that carry divine meanings of bravery, strength, and victory. Thus, choosing names that hold profound connotations in Norse culture is essential.

5. What are some gender-specific naming conventions in Norse culture?

In Norse culture, there were gender-specific naming conventions. Male names often used theophoric first element, referencing Gods or divine elements, such as Thor or Freyr. On the other hand, female names frequently had the second element of their names associated with pre-Christian religious practices (1).

6. How do Norse names work?

In Norse naming traditions, a patronymic system is commonly used throughout Scandinavia. This involves forming a family name by taking the father's first name and adding a gender-specific suffix. This naming practice emphasizes the significance of familial connections and allows for identifying a person's lineage through their father's name.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Philip A. Shaw; 2011; The Role of Gender in Some Viking-Age Innovations in Personal Naming;
https://www.jstor.org/stable/45019154

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.