Female names of Scandinavian origin. The most interesting nicknames of antiquity and names among the Scandinavians

A correctly chosen name has a strong positive impact on a person’s character, aura and destiny. Actively helps to develop, forms positive qualities of character and condition, strengthens health, removes various negative programs unconscious. But how to choose the perfect name?

Despite the fact that in culture there are poetic interpretations of what women's names mean, in reality the influence of the name on each girl is individual.

Sometimes parents try to choose a name before birth, preventing the child from developing. Attempts to use astrology are no longer applicable; astrology and numerology for choosing a name have squandered all serious knowledge about the influence of a name on fate over the centuries.

Christmastide calendars, holy people, without consulting a seeing, perspicacious specialist, do not provide any real assistance in assessing the influence of names on the fate of a child.

Popular lists, happy, beautiful, melodious female names are essentially generalizations, and completely turn a blind eye to the individuality, energy, and soul of the child.

Beautiful and modern Scandinavian names should first of all suit the child, and not the relative external criteria of beauty and fashion. Who don't care about your child's life.

Various characteristics according to statistics - positive features the name, the negative features of the name, the choice of a profession based on the name, the influence of the name on business, the influence of the name on health, the psychology of the name can only be considered in the context of a deep analysis of the character, energy structure, life goals and gender of a particular child.

Name Compatibility Topic(and not the characters of people) is an absurdity that turns the interaction inside out different people internal mechanisms of influence of a name on the state of its bearer. And it cancels the entire psyche, unconscious, energy and behavior of people. Reduces the entire multidimensionality of human interaction to one false characteristic.

Meaning of the name does not give full impact, it is only a small part of the impact. For example, Ragna (wise) does not mean that the girl will be happy in family life, and bearers of other names are unhappy. The name can weaken her health, block her heart center and she will not be able to give and receive love. On the contrary, another girl will be helped to solve problems related to love or family, which will make life and achieving goals much easier. The third girl may not have any effect at all, whether there is a name or not. Etc. Moreover, all these children can be born on the same day. And have the same astrological, numerological and other characteristics. And the same name. But fates are different.

The most popular Scandinavian names for girls are also misleading. 95% of girls are called names that do not make their fate easier. You can only focus on the child’s innate character, spiritual vision and the wisdom of a specialist. And experience, experience and once again the experience of understanding what is happening.

The secret of a woman's name, as a program of the unconscious, a sound wave, vibration is revealed in a special bouquet primarily in a person, and not in the semantic meaning and characteristics of a name. And if this name destroys a child, then no matter how beautiful, melodious with the patronymic, astrologically accurate, blissful it is, it will still be harmful, destroy character, complicate life and burden fate.

Below is a list of Scandinavian names. Try to choose several that you think are most suitable for your child. Then, if you are interested in the effectiveness of the name’s influence on fate, .

List of female Scandinavian names in alphabetical order:

Adamina - earth, red
Adeline - noble
Agnetha - chaste, holy
Alina - noble
Anitra - beneficial, beneficial
Anneliese - gracious, helpful, confirmed by God
Annie - gracious, helpful
Ase - divine
Asta - divine beauty
Astrid - divine beauty
Aud - spiritually rich

Barbro - foreign, alien
Birgit - sublime
Birgitta - sublime
Birte - sublime
Bodil - battle-revenge
Borgilda - a useful battle maiden
Brita - sublime
Brünnhilde - female warrior in armor

Valborg - rescuing those killed in battle
Vendla - wanderer
Vigdis - goddess of war
Victoria - victory
Wilhelm - protected by a helmet
Vilma - protected by a helmet
Vivi is alive
Vivienne - alive

Gerd - strong
Gerda is strong
Gudrun - divine runes
Gunhild - military battle
Gunhilda - military battle
Gunnel - military battle
Gunvor - vigilant warrior

Dagnei - new day
Dagny - new day
Dorothea - a gift from God
Dorte is a gift from God
Dorta is a gift from God

Ida - hardworking
Ylva - she-wolf
Inga is the only one
Ingeborg - protected by Ing
Ingegerd - fenced by Ing
Ingrid is beautiful

Jorun - horse lover
Jorunn - horse lover

Katrin - pure
Carolina - courageous
Katarina - pure
Katrin - pure
Kaya - mistress
Clara - pure, bright
Christine - follower of Christ
Christina - follower of Christ

Letizia is happy
Lisbeth - confirmed by God
Liv - life
Liva - life

Magdalena - Magdalena
Maya - nursing mother
Margareta is a pearl
Margrit is a pearl
Marte - mistress, mistress
Matilda - strong in battle
Matilda - strong in battle
Mektilda - strong in battle

Ragna - wise
Ragnhild - Battle of the Defenders
Raquel - sheep
Rune - secret knowledge

Sanna - lily
Sarah - princess, noble lady
Sigrid - a wonderful victory
Sigrun - the secret of victory
Simone - attentive
Siri is a wonderful victory
Sonya - wise
Stina - follower of Christ
Suzanne - lily
Svanhilda - battle of swans

Tekla - God's glory
Tora is a warrior
Tyra - warrior of Thor
Torborg - protected by Thor
Tord - female Thor
Thordis - female Thor
Thorhild - Thor's battle
Tove - thunder
Trine - pure
Thurid - the beauty of Thor
Tyra - warrior of Thor

Ulla - prosperity and power
Ulrika - prosperity and power

Frida - peaceful

Hedwig - battle of rivals
Helen - torch
Henrika - housekeeper
Hilda - battle
Hilde - battle
Hulda - hidden, keeping a secret

Aideen - slim
Elin - torch
Elizabeth - Confirmed by God
Erica - ruler
Esther is a star
Evelina - little Eva
Evelyn - little Eva

Destiny is character. Character is adjusted, including through thoughts. The most the main idea This name. The name introduces changes in character. Then the character changes fate and future. Since all people are different, any generalizations that ignore a person’s individuality are incorrect.

How to choose the absolutely correct, strong and appropriate name for a child in 2019?

If you want to give your child strong name, which would improve the child’s weak qualities, support him throughout life, and protect him from birth problems. In general, you want the chosen name to help the child be better, more successful, more efficient and have fewer problematic situations in life.

Find out right now how a name will affect the destiny, strength of character and life of a child.
I'll do it for you free analysis 1st name - write to whatsapp +7926 697 00 47
Or come to my center in Moscow, at the Red Gate.

Neurosemiotics of the name
Yours, Leonard Boyard
Switch to the value of life

Scandinavian female names and their meanings

Modern names different countries differ in origin, culture and historical heritage, the influence of various religions. In countries such as Denmark and Norway, Sweden and Iceland, as well as Finland, children are usually called by modern names, however larger number These names take their origins from ancient Scandinavia. Some of which go back to legends and myths, some are a reflection of Germanic and biblical names. The rich history is reflected in the variety of female and male Scandinavian names.

Features of Scandinavian group names

The names of the Scandinavian group, like those of other peoples, reflected the characteristics of a person’s character and described his remarkable aspects. But an interesting fact is that the name was not given to a person for life, but could change during his life, even more than once. The reason for changing the name could be the commission of an act that left an imprint on the attitude towards its bearer, or the emergence of new qualities as a result of growing up.

History has left its mark on Scandinavian women's names, which reflect the warlike events of the rich past. It is noteworthy that the interpretation and meaning of female and male names are almost the same. The character traits of the conqueror were passed down from generation to generation, and strength and courage, bravery and courage, revered at all times, were embodied in the names of girls. For example, Vigdis is the “goddess of war”, Gudhild is the “good battle”, Svanhild is the “battle of the swans”, Brynhild is the “warlike woman”.

It is also noteworthy that two-part Scandinavian female names are used, and their meaning is intended to define objects and abstract concepts, to reflect distinctive features appearance and character traits: “peace-loving ruler” - Fredrika, “battle of defenders” - Ragnhild.

How was a name given in a Scandinavian family in ancient times?

The peoples of Scandinavia had their own traditions in naming, which everyone followed without exception.

Only the father gave the name to the girl and boy. This was equated to the baby gaining the right to life, because the head of the family could recognize or reject its new member. When naming a child, tribute was paid to the glorious ancestors, who were supposed to be reborn in a new body when choosing the name of the descendant. Scandinavian female names were given to girls in honor of deceased relatives. These names were intended to strengthen the strength of the clan, which came from all the ancestors who bore this name.

Ancient Scandinavian names and modern ones. What is the difference?

The culture of glorious wars and battles left its mark on the names of girls in Scandinavia. In ancient times there were no particular differences between male and female names. Girls were named in honor of military events and battles, patrons of war and battles, peace and victories. In the old days, the names of heroes sung in legends and epic works were popular. It was customary to call girls by the names of goddesses and heroines of legends.

In the modern world, choice is made according to a different principle. They now prefer beautiful Scandinavian female names, which are the embodiment of femininity, tenderness, are distinguished by the beauty of their sound and grace, and glorify best qualities and the virtues of representatives of the fair half of humanity. For example: Ingrid – “beautiful” and Inga – “the only one”, Christina – “follower of Christ” and Letitia – “happy”, Sonja – “wise” and Henrika – “housekeeper”, Aideen – “slender” and Katarina – “pure” .

Mythological roots of Scandinavian names

The mythology of the Angles and Normans, Danes and Saxons, formed before the adoption of Christianity, from the 5th century. BC, is reflected in the names of the Scandinavian countries. German-Scandinavian mythology was basically a worship of the forces of nature, so a number of names corresponded to the names of animals that were especially revered by the Vikings.

Female names in Scandinavian mythology are represented by such options as “Bear” - Ulf or “god of fertility” - Freir. The names of sacred ravens were also popular, which were especially revered by the Vikings and personified military success: “thought, soul” - Huginn and “memory” - Muginn. The forces of nature are reflected in the names: “rock” - Stein, “protected by Thor” - Torborg, “soul” - Hugi.

Simple and complex names among Scandinavians

Scandinavian names are divided into two main groups: one- and two-part. If the first group includes descriptions of character traits or belonging to a certain tribe and clan: “spiritualized” - Aud, “strong” - Gerda, “foreigner” - Barbro, then two-part Scandinavian female names and their meaning have their own characteristics.

Two-syllable and two-part names reflect the components of the names of the two parents or the qualities that they want to endow the baby with: “stone, protect” - Steinbjorg, “battle of the elves” - Alfhild, “divine runes” - Gudrun.

Having absorbed the culture of neighboring peoples who professed the Lutheran and Catholic faith, they began to give the child two names at baptism, which are designed to protect him throughout his life. In everyday life, only one name is used, and they try to keep the second in the shadows. And in difficult life situations related to health, it is customary to refer to the second name and actively use it instead of the first, believing that protective forces capable of changing fate for the better.

Nicknames that became names

Initially, most ancient Scandinavian names, including women’s ones, were mixed with a wide variety of nicknames, and it was difficult to distinguish between them. Some names contained both a nickname and a proper name. For example, the name Alv incorporates the nickname “elf”. Nicknames perfectly reflected the individual characteristics of a person: Raquel - “sheep”, Tord Horse Head‒ woman Thor.

The nicknames of famous witches and sorcerers also reflect Scandinavian female names: Kolfinna - “dark, black Finn”, Kolgrima - “black mask”. Over time, the boundaries between name and nickname blur and become indistinguishable.

Viking Legacy

The brave conquerors of antiquity - the Vikings - passed through the centuries and gradually turned into modern Scandinavians, and their culture is reflected in glorious names. Warring tribes treated the choice of name responsibly. It was believed that a name could shake the universe and influence the entire fate of its bearer. By naming a child, they believed that they were placing him under the protection of the gods and the forces of nature. Some of the names reflecting the rites of priests and sorcerers are gone forever, but those praising the achievements of a warrior or hunter continue to exist to this day. And among these: Valborg - “saving those killed in battle”, Bodil - “battle-vengeance”, Borgilda - “a fighting, useful maiden”.

How did Christianity influence the name?

With the adoption of Christianity, new names began to appear, but their spread was perceived ambiguously among the Scandinavian peoples.

Data for children christian names at baptism they remained secret. They used a second name, which was traditional and understandable for the Scandinavian people. There was a particular rejection of new names in the families of the military elite, where it was customary to call only illegitimate children with Christian names. But gradually new ones joined the Scandinavian women's names. They are actively used by modern parents who choose them for their daughters: Christina and Stina - “follower of Christ”, Elizabeth - “confirmed by God”, Evelina - “little Eve”, Anneliese - “gracious, useful, confirmed by God”.

Adamina - red, earth.
Adeline, Adeline - noble, noble.
Agneta is a saint, chaste.
Alina is decent.
Anitra, Annie – helpful, grace.
Asta, Astrid, Ase - divine beauty.
Aud – spiritualized.

Barbro is a stranger, a foreigner.
Birgit, Birgitta, Birte – sublime.
Brita is sublime.
Brünnhilde is a warrior woman dressed in armor.
Wendla is a traveler.
Vigdis is the goddess of battles and war.
Victoria – a sensation, a victory.
Wilma, Wilhelma – militant, protected by a helmet.
Vivien, Vivi – mobile, lively.
Gerda, Gerd – powerful, strong.
Gunnel, Gunhilda, Gunhild - military battle.
Gunvor is a vigilant warrior woman.
Dagny, Dagney - the birth of a new day.
Dorta, Dorthe, Dorotea - God's gift.
Ida is diligent and hardworking.
Ylva is a wolf woman.
Inga is unique, one, only.
Ingeborga, Ingegerd – protected by Ing.
Ingrid is beautiful, incomparable.
Jorun, Jorunn – lover of horses.
Catherine, Katarina – innocent, pure.
Carolina is strong and courageous.
Kaya is a mistress, mistress.
Clara is immaculate, pure, dazzling.
Kristin, Christina, Stina is a follower of the teachings of Christ.
Letitia is glowing with happiness.
Lisbeth – confirmed by God.
Liv, Liva – life-giver.
Maya is the mother-nurse.
Margareta, Margrit is a pearl of great price.
Marte is a housewife.
Matilda, Matilda, Mektilda - strong in battle.
Ragnhild - the battle of warrior-defenders.
Rune – initiated into secret knowledge.
Sana, Suzanne – lily flower.
Sarah is a noble lady, a charming princess.
Sigrid, Sigrun, Siri - a wonderful victory.
Simone is understanding.
Sonya, Ragna - experienced, wise.
Svanhilda - battle of swans.
Tekla - Divine glorification.
Tora, Tyra - warrior Tora.
Torborg - taken under the protection of Thor.
Thord, Thordis - beloved Thor.
Thorhild - Thor's battle.
Tove – thunderous.
Trine – immaculate, pure.
Thurid is the beauty of God Thor.
Ulla, Ulrika - power and prosperity.
Frida is peace-loving.
Hedwig - battle of rivals.
Helen, Elin – flame, torch.
Henrika is a housekeeper.
Hilda, Hilde - battle.
Hulda – guarding a secret, hidden.
Aideen is graceful and slender.
Elizabeth is confirmed by God.
Erica is the ruler.
Esther is a shining star.
Evelina, Evelyn is the ancestor, little Eva.

Viking names. Old Norse names

The era of the Normans can be called the middle of the 9th - beginning of the 11th century, which was characterized by expansion and invasion of various countries for the purpose of easy money. The main type of fishing of the ancient Scandinavians was continuous raids on a number of European countries and ancient Russian lands. Despite this, they were good shipbuilders, successful traders and experienced sailors. The culture of these peoples had a significant influence on the further development of a number of countries modern Europe And Ancient Rus'. Many Old Norse names are as popular today as they were centuries ago.

A little about the life history of the ancient Normans

The vast majority of Vikings were free pagan peasants of Norwegian, Danish and Swedish origin. The geographical location of Scandinavia with harsh climatic conditions did not allow development agriculture sufficiently. Therefore, the main type of livelihood of these peoples was hunting and fishing. It was the sea that was the source of food for the Vikings. By the beginning of the 8th century, sea voyages had become a way of life for the ancient Scandinavians. Shipbuilding and navigation gradually developed, thanks to which the Vikings made long journeys. sea travel. By that time, trade began to actively develop in Europe. At the same time, merchants from different countries began to import their goods from distant places, including by sea.

The ships, bursting at the seams with various goods and riches, did not go unnoticed by the Varangians, and they very quickly began to rob various merchants at sea. By the beginning of the 9th century, the Varangians began to raid a number of countries Western Europe. The history of the Vikings as sea conquerors dates back to the 790s AD. e., when Norman ships first approached the English coast. This was one of the first major invasions for the purpose of robbery and robbery. Subsequently, raids became a way of life for the Vikings. Moreover, they settled many islands in the northern seas, which served as bases for rest and sharing the loot. Armed attacks by the Vikings were carried out from sailing longships, which made up the majority of the Norman fleet. Several thousand robbers could take part in attacks at the same time.

What were the ancient Scandinavians like?

The history of the Vikings is shrouded in many myths and legends, thanks to which a strong opinion has been formed about them. For example, in the minds of contemporaries, all Normans are huge people with white long hair, besides, they are wild and bloodthirsty. In fact, it was rare that a Viking’s height exceeded 170 cm, and as for hair, we can say that there were indeed quite a lot of fair-haired Varangians, but among them there were a considerable number of dark-haired people, and even red-haired ones. Few people know, but the Varangians were hospitable people because they believed that a guest in the house is God in the house.

In addition, many foreigners joined their tribes, so subsequently there were many people from different countries among them.

The Normans were excellent gunsmiths, and used various technologies to make military weapons. It is safe to say that the Viking sword was no worse than a Damascus steel blade in terms of strength and sharpness. The history of many peoples is in one way or another intertwined with the Scandinavian pagans, since the Normans subsequently began to settle throughout the world. Their roots can also be found in the territory modern Russia, And North America and even Africa.

The Scandinavian warriors had one feature, which was the complete destruction of everything that was not related to their religion. They destroyed churches and temples of “dissidents” to the ground, while not feeling pity for either the holy fathers or the parishioners. This largely explains the reason why the ancient inhabitants experienced animal horror at the sight of the Varangians, whom they called merciless and cruel killers.

Norman culture

As we have already said, the Vikings were excellent shipbuilders and sailors, skilled gunsmiths, warriors and hunters. Development of various areas economic activity these peoples kept pace with the times. However, due to their belonging to the pagans, their writing was extremely poorly developed, so everything that happened was passed on by word of mouth. This is how the famous Scandinavian sagas appeared, from which you can learn a lot about the history of the ancient Normans.

Only by the beginning of the 11th century did the Vikings begin to develop writing and the first historical records, which were recorded using the well-known runic script. Runes were used as written symbols, and were also actively used in applied magic. They were carved on stones and carved on tablets, and were also used to make protective amulets and divinations. Runic writing is often found in the history of Romano-Germanic and Slavic peoples. With their help, they subsequently began to record the names of the Vikings, the origin and meaning of which we will consider further.

Origin of Scandinavian names

Scandinavian names have their origins and rich history. Let's start with the fact that they were given by the father of the family to a newborn child. He also had the right to accept this baby or refuse him altogether. The children born were given names that had a direct connection with the ancestors of the family. It was common among the Normans to mix common nouns with nicknames. For example, the meaning of the name Ingrid is “beautiful,” which indicates the presence of the god of fertility. Sigrid is a name that confirms a person’s talent and giftedness. People with this name have an unconventional type of thinking and are non-trivial.

The Viking names given to the father at birth were not consistent. They could be replaced during life by another, when a person’s character and a number of distinctive features had already been formed. Viking names, the list of which is quite large, can be divided into one-part and two-part.

One-components can indicate human qualities or his character (Vagni ─ calm, Dyarvi ─ brave, Magni ─ strong, Sverre ─ heavy, Tryggvi ─ loyal). Other Viking names speak about the external characteristics of a person (Bruni ─ strong, Raud ─ red, Lodinn ─ covered with hair). There are also many names that denote animals (Bersi ─ little bear, Bjorn ─ bear, Orm ─ snake, Ulv ─ wolf), inanimate objects or phenomena (Brand ─ sword, Koll ─ coal, Skjeld ─ shield, Frost ─ frost, Una ─ wave).

Two-part Scandinavian names have a complex structure. They can contain the names of gods, contain a mythological meaning or characterize a warrior (Audun ─ a rich wave, Asgeir ─ the spear of the Aesir, Grinolf ─ a green wolf, Sigurd ─ protected by victory, Steinulf ─ a stone wolf, Thorbrand ─ the sword of Thor).

Names of Old Norse gods

Let's look at the names of some Viking gods, since they are directly related to the formation of the names of the ancient Scandinavians and their culture. Supreme God of all the pagan Vikings there was One ─ Wotan, the owner of the Asdgardian palace of Valhalla and everything that happens on earth and the universe. He patronized artisans and farmers, warriors and sailors, and also revealed the secrets of runic art and knowledge of the world.

Among the highest aesir gods, Tiu-Tyr, the god of justice and law, who patronized justice, was also highly revered by the Vikings. God Thor the Thunderer was the all-powerful protector of all people and many gods for the Vikings. Tor-Tunar is the son of Odin and the Earth Goddess Erda. Thor owned Mjolnir, a magical hammer that could hit absolutely anything and return after being thrown to its owner's hand. The Vikings worshiped Thor with special zeal, and his divine presence could often be found in their names.

The wife of the Thunderer Thor was the golden-haired goddess Sif. Their three children, the goddess Trud and her brothers Modi and Magni, were also revered by the Vikings. The goddess Frigg (Fria) patronized the hearth and order in the house. Also among the gods, the ancient Scandinavians revered Freya ─ the goddess of eros, physical well-being and magic; Frey, who patronized material well-being, peace and prosperity; Njord, the father of Freya and Frey, who controlled the elements of the sea and the wind. It also influenced the well-being and prosperity of all people.

Religious roots of the origin of Old Norse names

Often the meaning of the name has affiliation with various deities and religious origin. As a rule, these are names consisting of two or more parts, one of which is in one way or another connected with pagan gods. For example, let's take Ingvar ─ a name that literally means “warrior of the god Yngvi,” where Yngvi is one of Frey’s divine names.

Viking female religious names are as follows : Asne ─ God's news; Astrid ─ God's power; Asveig ─ God's road; Gudrun ─ divine mystery; Thorgerd ─ divine protection (protection of the god Thor); Thorhild ─ divine battle (Torah).

Religious Viking male names are listed below. The name Aswald literally means "divine power." Names in which the main name is the name of the god Thor: Thorstein, Torbjorn, Torvar, Tormod, Thorgisl, Torbrand, Torfred, Thorarinn mean “stone”, “bear”, “army”, “courage”, “hostage”, “sword”, “world”, “hearth” respectively. The names Freygeir and Freyvar are the “spear” and “army” of the goddess Freya.

About some famous Vikings

The Old Scandinavian Viking king Harald Fairhair (as the monarch was nicknamed according to the custom of the Varangians) managed to unite the small Norman tribes into a single state. In the Battle of Stavangereg in 885 he was seriously wounded, but after recovery he retained power over the Varangians for many years.

The famous Vikings, whose names were Olaf and Haakon, were kings of the Norman lands - the beginning of Christianity in the Norwegian state is associated with them. Haakon the Good is considered the first Norwegian king, under whom the Vikings began to forget their pagan roots and became Christians. Although it is believed that it was Olaf I Trygvesson (reigned 995-1000) and St. Olaf (1015-1028), in whose honor many churches of the Norwegian state were built, who established the Christian faith.

How the Christian faith influenced the change in Scandinavian names

After Christianity appeared in a number of Scandinavian countries, the names of the Vikings remained for a long time. However, thanks to a decree that was issued by the church clergy, the Scandinavians had to name their children according to the Christian calendar, which included the names of saints. Thus, the descendants of the Varangians began to be called by ancient Greek, Jewish and ancient Roman names, which were characteristic of Christians and over time acquired euphony, becoming completely “native” to the Scandinavian peoples.

As for surnames, they are derived from given names, but with the addition of particles. Therefore, Scandinavians bear such original surnames as Larsen, Amudsen, Hansen, Johansen, Nielsen, Christiansen, Carlsen and a number of others.

Male Old Norse names

We have already said that the ancient Viking names received at birth were subsequently changed to others that corresponded to the human essence. Since the children did not show themselves in any way at birth, they could be named as follows:

Beinir or Bergir - names that meant “helper in everything”; Yoddur, Skuli ─ “protector of the clan”; Leiv ─ “heir”; Oblaud ─ “daredevil”; Ofeig ─ “long-liver, not doomed to death, living happily”; Thrain ─ “persistent”; Tryggvi ─ “faithful, devoted.”

Of course, the parents could assume that the born son would be a brave warrior and protector, but the person could choose another path, becoming, for example, a merchant or a hunter, then he received a different name:

Frodi ─ “peaceful or kind”; Helgi, which literally meant "holy, unsinful"; Kolbjörn ─ “black, charcoal bear”; Alv ─ “elf”; Vestein ─ “holy stone”; Webbrand ─ “holy weapon”; Vardi ─ “friend”; Guest ─ “welcome guest” and others.

Warriors and defenders were given formidable and sonorous names, since the Vikings believed that if warriors died on the battlefield, they would definitely end up in Asgard and be the faithful servants of Odin:

Brand ─ “sharp sword”; Vegeir ─ “spear of saints”; Webbrand ─ “holy sword”; Gunnar ─ “battle sword”; Dyarvi ─ “brave”; Rorik ─ “mighty glory”; Sigvald ─ “victorious power”; Hjarti ─ “lord of the sword”; Einar ─ “warrior of happiness.”

Female names of the ancient Scandinavians

Viking female names were also chosen by the father at the birth of his daughters. Girls were supposed to benefit the family. The feminine principle was revered by the ancient Scandinavians. Newborn girls could be named as follows:

Erna ─ “craftswoman, skillful”; Bjerg ─ “guardian, protector”; Una ─ “satisfied”; Bot ─ “assistant”; Guda ─ “good, kind”; Gerd is a “home protector.” However, a too militant father could give his daughter the name Hild, which meant “battle.”

Of course, none of the parents of Viking girls dreamed that the grown-up beauty would become a warrior and carry out raids for the purpose of robbery. Therefore, women's names carried a completely different meaning. They could denote parental hope for a happy life for their child, or they could simply be chosen to be beautiful and euphonious:

Frida - “beautiful, beloved”; Yolver ─ “happy”; Osk ─ “desired”; Eidr ─ “glorious”; Dalla, Birta ─ “bright”; Ljot ─ “light”.

Often Viking women's names could be directly related to the animals that they believed were their patrons:

Ryupa ─ “mountain partridge”; Bera, Birna ─ “bear”; Hrefna ─ “crow”; Meve ─ “seagull”.

Quite often, newborn girls were given names that are associated with the god Frey:

The name Inga, which has come down to our times, means “winter,” which is popular among many Slavic peoples; Freydis ─ “disa of Freya”; Ingileiv meant "heiress"; Ingimudri - literally "hand of the goddess Freya"; Ingver - “knower of the gods” and others.
The names of women were also popular: Aud, which meant “rich, wealthy”, Gudgerd ─ “well protected”, Rannveig ─ “swift, fast, running”, Rind ─ “protector of the weak, the hearth”, Solveig ─ “sun ray”, Svanveig ─ “swan road”, Una ─ “sea wave”, Helga meant “holy”. The name Helga later took on the form "Olga" among the Slavs.

Correspondence of some Viking male names to modern ones

Manahegni, Manaedur ─ Alexander. The name comes from two words: “manna” ─ person and “edur” ─ “protection, to protect.”
Skuli, Hegni ─ Alexey, which means “protector”.
Resqui ─ Valery, “cheerful.”
Konunglegur ─ “royal”, corresponds to the meaning of the name “Basily”.
Tiedwald consists of the words “to own” and “people” ─ Vladimir.
Siungur, Vakkin ─ Gregory.
Ragnademulus ─ “god” and “judged” ─ Daniel.
Bondur ─ “farmer” ─ Egor.
Hakon ─ “high birth” ─ Sergei.
Soknheid corresponds to the name Yaroslav.

In conclusion, we note that the Vikings attached great importance to the naming of children, especially for newborn boys. As a rule, each clan had a number of names, which they called their children in the same way as their ancestors. The boy received the name of a deceased senior member of the clan or an older brother who died in battle, as well as his father. The Varangians believed that with the birth of boys dead soldiers were reborn in them. If there were several male children in the family, then the eldest of them certainly became the heir, and he also received the name of the most famous and brave deceased relative in the male line.

Among the ancient Vikings, the father decided everything in families. Therefore, an illegitimate child could receive the name of a famous ancestor in his father’s family, even if there were half-brothers ─ legitimate children of the head of the family. During the times of the pagan faith, the head of the family had practically no division into legitimate and illegitimate children. But with the advent of Christianity in the Scandinavian countries, only those born in an official marriage approved by the church were considered natural children.

Scandinavian names

Scandinavian names used in Denmark, Sweden, Iceland and Norway, as well as in Finland (due to the large number of Scandinavian Swedes living in the country). The vast majority of Scandinavian names are of Germanic or biblical origin, as are other Western names (including Russian), but there are also many native Northern European names. Most names come from ancient Germanic roots dedicated to animal totems: for example, “olv” (“ulv”) means “wolf,” “bjorn” (“bjorn”) means “bear,” etc.

Among the ancient Scandinavians, like many peoples in the first stages of development, the difference between a nickname and a full name was practically not felt. Thus, creating a name for the newborn was a fairly simple procedure. The name could change over the course of life: instead of the old one given at birth, a new one was given, as a rule, corresponding to certain characteristics and qualities of a person, and in this case the border between the name and the nickname becomes practically indistinguishable.

Until about the beginning of the 20th century, most Scandinavians did not have a surname. Until now, for example, in Iceland the surname is rare. The Scandinavians used patronymics, for example Andre Johansson means "Andre, son of Johan". Women could also add the mother's name - Halla Gudrunsdottir, "Halla, daughter of Gudrun."

Among the representatives of the ruling dynasty, the names of the heirs were chosen especially carefully. Future rulers were never given Christian names; often the children of kings were named in honor of their pagan ancestors. The most popular names for future kings there were Magnus, Olav (Olaf), Harald, Eystein and Sigurd. In the XI-XII centuries. At least 6 kings named Magnus, four Olavs and three Sigurds visited the Norwegian throne.

Scandinavian names and their meanings

Scandinavia is a land of mysteries, magic and enchantment. Starting from the 12th century BC, the territories of Northern Europe began to be inhabited by human hunters, who, along with some animals, moved here after the Ice Age. Today, the history of Scandinavia is directly connected with the tales of the Vikings - a warrior people capable of trade. Starting from the 8th century AD, they took a direct part in the development of new lands, where they formed colonies. They believed in the gods, the strength of the warrior and revered animals. It is generally accepted that the Scandinavian peoples are Danes, Swedes, and Norwegians. Some historians also consider Finland and Iceland to be Scandinavia.

The language of the Scandinavians was uniform until a certain period of stratification and conquest of its territories. This, of course, influenced Scandinavian names, their formation and meaning. In turn, there were dialects, but Old Norse was considered the common language. Subsequently, the alphabet, initially numbering 24 runes, was simplified in some territories, reduced to 16. Nevertheless, just like the Slavs, the Scandinavians had a name directly related to the status, characteristics, and family craft of a person.

Mostly Scandinavian male names were no different from women's. The basis of any name can be distinguished by the following characteristics:

1. The name is derived from the name of the deity. Most often it is the god of fertility, military abilities, thunder (Frey, Tyr, Thor). For example, Bergborr or Freybjorn - Thor's assistant and Frey's bear. In this case, Scandinavian female names were distinguished by the postfix dis (say, Geirdis or Gunndis - from the names of the goddess of the spear and the goddess of battles).

2. The name is derived from the name of the animal. They took as a basis revered animals that were considered sacred. The most common is the bear (Bjon). This beast was revered as the strongest and most dangerous, symbolizing courage and strength. He was also one of the essences of the main Scandinavian god Odin. In the original female version, this name sounded like Bera or Birna. Also popular were Scandinavian names that included the names of wolf, raven, eagle and wild boar. The last name Jöfurr (boar) was given to people of the upper class, putting into it the concept of a ruler or leader. The eagle (derivatives ari, örn) acted as a protector and a good warrior. Raven (hrafn) - Rafnhildr (raven of battle) is the soul, memory and luck.

3. A name associated with military operations and the protection of the people. Given the variety of military paraphernalia, Scandinavian names associated with military affairs are the most common basis. The main concepts here were such as battle or fight (gunnr, hildr, leikr), which were connected with certain directions(sea, land, professional); war (víg), was combined mainly with such concepts as desired, great, glorious; military paraphernalia: helmet, spear and sword (gríma, geirr, brandr) were combined with concepts of valor, bravery, and the level of a warrior’s abilities.

4. Scandinavian names are ethnonyms (determining belonging to a particular people). These included the Finns (Finnr), Danes (Danr), Goths (Gautr) and Flemings (Flaemingr).

The names of the ancient Scandinavians are found in different peoples and today. And they all contain certain concepts and have meanings confirmed by the rich Scandinavian history.

The most interesting nicknames of antiquity and names among the Scandinavians

Nicknames in Icelandic sagas

The champions of the strange nicknames of their rulers are, of course, the ancient Scandinavians. The harsh Vikings gave each other nicknames that “stuck” for life and served as a kind of mark by which a person was recognized. Interestingly, this tradition also applied to rulers.

Take, for example, Ragnar Lothbrok, known to many from the television series “Vikings”. "Lothbrok" translates to "hairy trousers", which alludes to the item of clothing that Ragnar always wore before battle "for good luck". These pants were made of coarse wool, so they looked very shaggy. True, there is an opinion that “Lothbrok” is more correctly translated as “hairy ass”, but it is unlikely that even among the brave Vikings there would have been a madman who would have risked calling the ferocious king that way.

Sons of Ragnar had no less interesting nicknames: Sigurd the Snake-in-the-Eye (so nicknamed for his piercing “snake” look), Bjorn Ironside (received the nickname for his insensitivity to pain and the high-quality chain mail he wore) and Ivar the Boneless (notable for his incredible flexibility and dexterity ).

Norwegian king Elvir Detolyub received his nickname not for his perverted addictions, as one might think, but for an incredible act of humanism by Viking standards: he forbade his warriors... to impale children on spears for entertainment!

Harald I, King of Denmark and Norway, was nicknamed "Bluetooth" by his subjects. He received such a strange nickname because he loved to eat blueberries. However, a more plausible version sounds that Harald was nicknamed not Blatand (“Blue-toothed”), but Bletand (“Dark-haired”). WITH Harald Bluetooth very connected interesting fact: Bluetooth technology, created by a Danish-Norwegian group of developers, is named after him.

Rollon Pedestrian- the Viking Hrolf, who managed to conquer part of France and become the founder of the dynasty of the Dukes of Normandy. He received the nickname “Pedestrian” because he was so tall and heavy that not a single horse could withstand him as a rider for long. So Rollon had to walk.

King of Norway Eric I Bloodaxe earned such a terrifying prefix to his name for the fact that he consistently slaughtered his relatives, who could become his rivals in the fight for the throne. It is interesting that Erik still could not get to one of his brothers, Hakon, who overthrew him. Obviously, in comparison with Eric, even the stern Hakon looked like a real charmer and, in contrast, received the nickname “Kind”.

Few people know the following interesting fact: English king William I was most often called during his lifetime William the Bastard(behind the scenes, of course) than the Conqueror (as they say in school textbooks). The fact is that he was the illegitimate son of the Norman Duke Robert. By the way, Wilhelm’s father also bore a very eloquent nickname - the Devil. There were rumors about Robert the Devil that even before his birth his soul was promised to Satan.

Byzantine Emperor Constantine V bore the very dissonant nickname “Kopronim” (“Called the Dirty One”) because, as a baby, during his baptism he shit directly into the font.

Emperor of Byzantium, Vasily II, in 1014 defeated the Bulgarian army at the Battle of Strymon. 15 thousand Bulgarians were captured, whose eyes were gouged out by order of the Byzantine ruler. For every hundred blinded, only one “lucky” guide was left (he only had one eye gouged out). For his sadistic cruelty towards prisoners, Vasily II received the nickname “Bulgarian Slayer”.

The Grand Duke of Vladimir Vsevolod earned the nickname "Big Nest" for being the father of 12 children: 8 sons and 4 daughters.

King of England John (John) Plantagenet due to his short-sighted policy, he lost all his possessions in France and his authority among the English knighthood. For this he was given a mocking nickname - “Landless”. Also, due to the constant defeats of the king, they teased “Softsword” – "Soft Sword" It’s interesting that impotent people were called that way in medieval England. However, in the case of John the Landless, such an interpretation of the nickname is unfounded - the king had 2 legitimate sons and 9 bastards, as well as 6 daughters - 3 legitimate and 3 illegitimate. Gossips It was rumored that making children was the only thing the monarch was good at. John's authority was so low that not a single English ruler anymore called his heirs by this name.

King of Bohemia and Hungary Ladislav received the nickname "Pogrobok" because he was born 4 months after sudden death his father from dysentery.

In the XVII–beginning 18th century ruler of Japan was Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, popularly nicknamed the “Dog Shogun.” Tsunayoshi forbade the killing of stray dogs and ordered them to be fed at public expense. It is interesting that the dog’s diet under this shogun was much richer than the peasant’s diet. By decree of the ruler, street dogs were to be addressed exclusively as “noble master,” and violators were beaten with sticks. True, after the death of the shogun, his “dog lobby” ceased to operate.

French king Louis Philippe d'Orléans received the nickname “Pear” because over the years his figure began to resemble this particular fruit. In addition, at French word“lapoire” (“pear”) also has a second meaning – “moron.” In general, it is not difficult to guess how much the French loved this king of theirs.

What do we know about the names that the Vikings gave to their children?

Names of defenders among the Scandinavians

Often, parents gave a name to their newborn that would embody the qualities that they would like to see when the child grows up and matures. For example, male names for boys who were supposed to become protectors of the family, clan and community:

Beinir - Beinir (helper),
Skúli - Skuli (defender),
Högni - Högni (defender),
Birgir - Birgir (assistant),
Jöðurr - Yodur (protector),
Uni - Uni (friend, satisfied).
Eiðr - Eid (oath),
Leifr - Leif (heir),
Tryggvi - Tryggvi (faithful, reliable),
Óblauðr - Oblaud (brave and brave),
Ófeigr - Ofeig (not doomed to death, one might say happy),
Trausti - Trausti (one who is trustworthy, reliable),
Þráinn - Train (persistent),

Female names for girls, which also personified future protectors and helpers of the family and the entire clan:

Bót - Bot (help, help),
Erna - Erna (skillful),
Björg - Bjorg (salvation, protection),
Una - Una (friend, satisfied).

Of course, popular names for boys were names that meant physical and spiritual strength, courage, fortitude, endurance, that is, the qualities of a real man, a real warrior. And the owner of such a name must confirm it and have the same quality that his name meant.

Male names:

Gnúpr - Gnup (steep mountain),
Halli - Halli (stone, pebble),
Kleppr - Klepp (mountain, rock),
Steinn - Stein (stone),
Múli - Muli (cape),
Knjúkr - Knyuk (peak),
Tindr - Tind (peak),
Knútr - Whip (knot).

Female name: Hallótta - Hallotta (rocky). After all, girls could also be not only skilled housewives, but also excellent warriors.

When selecting and coming up with a name for the baby, parents were guided by various principles and desires of future characteristic features your child, his destiny. For example, wishing a child love and good luck, a high position in society, they named their baby or baby accordingly. For example, happy parents could name their daughter like this:

Ljót - Ljot (bright and light),
Birta - Birta (bright),
Dalla - Dalla (brightness),
Fríðr - Frid (beautiful and beloved),
Fríða - Frida (beautiful),
Ósk - Osk (desire, desired),
Ölvör - Elver (lucky),
Heiðr - Heid (glory).

The boys were called:

Dagr - Dag (day),
Teitr - Tate (cheerful),
Dýri - Dyuri (dear and beloved),
Ölvir - Elvir (happy),
Harri - Harri (ruler),
Sindri - Sindri (spark),
Bjartr - Bjart (bright).

Such names were not just that, wishing happiness to their child and giving him an appropriate name, parents seemed to direct the child on the path of happiness and good luck, and the happy life of even one representative of the family clan could promise good luck for the whole clan as a whole.

The times during the Viking Age in the Scandinavian countries were not easy; almost every man became, whether he wanted it or not, a real warrior in order to protect his family, his clan, his clan, his community from encroachments on the native lands of strangers. There were few fertile lands in Norway, but everyone needed it, so conflicts and wars periodically arose between the clans.

Every boy with early years studied the military craft in order to be able to protect himself and his loved ones, his land, therefore the names of boys (and girls too, because some of them could become excellent warriors) were often given names that would characterize him as a glorious warrior.

In addition, by carrying out raids, the Vikings enriched themselves, bringing slaves and gold to the family from the raid. After several raids, you can become a merchant and significantly improve the situation of the whole family, because money was needed at all times, and silver Arab dirham coins were found in Scandinavia quite a bit of. Therefore, the war was not only defensive. In addition, at all times, men have been associated with protection and weapons. The man is a warrior! A warlike character and fighting spirit for a boy, and then for a man, were not negative characteristics at that difficult time.

Names of Viking warriors and warriors

For example, there were such male names on the theme of a strong and courageous, glorious warrior:

Hróðgeirr - Hrodgeir (spear of glory),
Hróðketill - Hroðketill (helmet of glory),
Bogi - Gods (bow),
Hróðmarr - Hróðmar (fame of glory),
Hróðný - Hrodnyu (youth of glory),
Hróðolfr - Hrodolf (wolf of glory, maybe glorious wolf),
Hróðgerðr - Hrodgerd (fence of glory),
Brandr - Brand (sword),
Hróðvaldr - Hroðvald (power of glory),
Geirr - Geir (spear),
Eiríkr - Eirik (very powerful and strong),
Darri - Darri (throwing spear),
Broddi - Broddi (point),
Egill - Egil (blade),
Gellir - Gellir (loud or sword),
Gyrðir - Gyurdir (girt with a sword),
Klœngr - Klœng (claw),
Naddr - Nadd (point or spear),
Oddi - Oddi (point) or Oddr - Odd (also point),
Vígi - Vigi (fighter),
Óspakr - Ospak (not peaceful, warlike),
Vigfúss - Vigfus (warlike, eager to fight and kill),
Ósvífr - Osvivr (merciless),
Styrmir - Styurmir (formidable, even stormy),
Sörli - Sörli (in armor),
Þiðrandi - Tidrandi (watcher, observer),
Styrr - Styur (battle),
Ulf - Ulf or Wulf (wolf)
Uggi - Ugg (scary),
Agnarr - Agnar (diligent or formidable warrior),
Einarr - Einar (a lone warrior who always fights alone).
Öndóttr - Andott (terrible).
Hildr - Hild (female name, means battle). Often Hild was an integral part of various female names.

Names that symbolized protection:

Hjalmr - Hjalm (helmet),
Ketill - Ketil (helmet),
Hjalti - Hjalti (sword hilt),
Skapti - Skafti (weapon hilt),
Skjöldr - Skjold (shield), Ørlygr - Erlyug (shield),
Hlíf - Khliv (female name, meaning shield),
Brynja - Brynja (female name, meaning chain mail).

Sig- and Sigr - meant victory or battle. There were quite a few compound names with this component, both male and female:

Sigarr – Sigar (warrior of victory or battle, battle),
Sigbjörn - Sigbjörn (battle bear),
Sigfúss - Sigfúss (ardent bright battle),
Sigfinnr - Sigfinn (Finn of battle, warlike Finn),
Sigvaldi - Sigvaldi (ruler or ruler of victory),
Siggeirr - Siggeir (spear of victory),
Sigsteinn – Sigstein (victory stone),
Sigtryggr - Sigtrygg (victory is certain),
Sighvatr - Sighvat (victory of the brave),
Sigurðr - Sigurd (guardian of victory, maybe guardian of battle),
Sigmundr - Sigmund (hand of victory),
Signý - Signy (female name, meant new victory),
Sigrfljóð - Sigrfljod (female name, meaning: girl of victory),
Sigþrúðr – Sigtruda (also a female name, meaning: strength of battle),
Sigrún – Sigrun (feminine name, meaning: rune or secret of battle or victory).

Name - amulet

Very often in Scandinavia of the Viking Age, and in Kievan Rus They called children names as amulets in order to protect the child from evil forces. In those early days, names denoting certain animals and birds were quite numerous. Some named their children after the animal so that the child would inherit its properties from it, for example, speed of reaction, dexterity, grace and others. In this case, this animal, the bird, even became a talisman and protector of the child from evil forces and twists of fate for the rest of his life. Pagan beliefs spoke of the close connection between man and all living things, Live nature was in harmony with humans for a very long time, people drew strength from plants and animals. There was such a symbolic connection between a person and the animal whose name he bears.

Male animal amulets names:

Ari – Ari or Örn - Ern (eagle),
Birnir and Björn - Birnir and Björn (bear),
Bjarki - Bjarki (little bear),
Ormr - Orm (serpent),
Gaukr - Gauk (cuckoo),
Brúsi - Brusi (goat),
Hjörtr - Hjort (deer),
Hreinn - Hrein (reindeer),
Haukr - Hauk (hawk),
Hrútr - Hrut (ram),
Mörðr - Mörd (marten),
Hrafn - Hrafn, Hravn (raven),
Ígull - Igul (hedgehog),
Svanr - Svan (swan),
Ulf - Ulf or Wulf (wolf)
Refr - Rav (fox),
Hundi - Hundi (dog),
Starri - Starry (starling),
Valr - Val (falcon),
Uxi - Uxi (ox),
Ýr - Ir (tourist).

Female animal amulets names:

Bera or Birna - Bera or Birna (bear),
Rjúpa - Ryupa (rock partridge),
Erla - Erla (wagtail),
Mæva - Meva (sea gull),
Hrefna - Hrevna (crow),
Svana - Svana (swan).

The birch tree is also considered a strong name-amulet, therefore both men and women were called by the name of the birch: Birkir or Björk - Birkir or Björk (birch). And in Russian beliefs it was also believed that the birch tree could be not only female, but there was also a male gender: birch trees.

There were also amulets like these:

Heimir - Heimir (who has a house),
Ófeigr - Ofeig (who is not doomed to death).

Viking nicknames

Not always a name given to the child at birth, remained with him for the rest of his life. Very often, Vikings received names and nicknames that were more suitable for them, which were more appropriate for them as adults. Such nicknames could complement the name, or could completely replace it. Nicknames in adulthood could be given to a Viking in accordance with his character, his occupation, his appearance (they could give a name based on his hair or eyes at the birth of a child as well), according to his social status and even his origin.

Nicknames that could have been given by parents at birth or by acquaintances, friends or fellow tribesmen in adulthood:

Atli - Atli (rough),
Kjötvi - Kjotvi (fleshy),
Floki - Floki (curly, curly),
Kolli - Collie (hairless),
Fróði - Frodi (wise, learned),
Greipr - Grape (the one with large and strong hands),
Forni - Forni (ancient, old),
Hödd - Hödd (woman with very beautiful hair),
Grani - Grani (mustached),
Höskuldr - Höskuld (gray-haired),
Hösvir - Khosvir (gray-haired),
Kára - Kara (curly),
Barði - Bardi (bearded),
Narfi - Narvi (thin and even skinny),
Krumr - Krum (stooped),
Skeggi - Skeggi (bearded man),
Loðinn - Lodin (shaggy),
Hrappr or Hvati - Hrapp or Hvati (fast, ardent),
Rauðr - Raud (red),
Reistr - Reist (straight and high),
Lúta - Luta (stooped),
Skarfr - Skarv (greedy),
Gestr - Guest (guest),
Sölvi - Sölvi (pale),
Glum - Glum (dark-eyed),
Hörðr - Hörd (a person from Hördaland in Norway),
Snerrir - Snerrir (difficult, complex),
Sturla - Sturla (impatient, emotional, restless).
Gauti or Gautr - Gauti or Gaut (Gaut, Swede),
Hálfdan - Halfdan (half-dan),
Höðr - Höðr (a person from Hadaland in Norway),
Smiðr - Smid (blacksmith),
Skíði - Skidi (skier),
Sveinn - Svein (youth, guy, boy, servant),
Gríma - Grima (mask, helmet, night, possibly a name for a witch, sorceress or healer),
Gróa (Gró) - Gro (plant worker, healer, healer, woman who dealt with herbs),
Huld, Hulda - Huld, Hulda (secret, veil or even elven maiden).

Names for sorcerers, magicians, witches They also gave peculiar ones, based on their occupation.

Kol - translated means black and even coal.
Finna or finnr - translated means Finn or Finn (in ancient times they were considered good magicians, sorcerers, witches and wizards).
Gríma - translated means mask, night.

In ancient times, the Vikings gave names and nicknames to those who practiced witchcraft and magic. in different ways combined the above-mentioned parts, for example, female names: Kolfinna and Kolgríma - Kolfinna and Kolgrima or male names: Kolfinnr or Kolgrímr - Kolfinn or Kolgrim.

Viking names after gods

The Vikings adhered to the ancient pagan belief of Asatru (loyalty to the Aesir), according to which there was a pantheon of gods who were ordinary people, but became gods for their heroism and perseverance, thanks to physical and spiritual strength. The Vikings and ancient Scandinavians took the gods as an example and wanted to be like them, as brave, strong, and beautiful, so the names were often associated with the gods, with the names of the main gods. Children in the Viking Age, in those distant pagan times, were called names that were associated with one or another god, thereby entrusting the fate of their child to him.
The following female names were dedicated to the god Yngvi - Frey:

Inga - Inga,
Freydís - Freydis (dis of Frey or Freya),
Ingunn - Ingunn (satisfied, Ingvi's friend),
Ingileif - Ingileif (heiress of Ingvi),
Ingigerðr - Ingigerd (protection of Ingvi),
Ingvör (Yngvör) - Ingver (in charge of Yngvi),
Yngvildr - Ingvild (battle of Yngvi).

Male names in honor of the gods:

Ingi - Ingi,
Ingimundr - Ingimund (hand of Ingvi),
Freysteinn - Freystein (Freyr's stone),
Ingimarr - Ingimar (glorious Ingvi - in the instrumental case),
Ingjaldr - Ingjald (ruler with the help of Yngvi),
Ingolfr - Ingolf (Ingvi's wolf),
Ingvarr (Yngvarr) - Ingvar (warrior Yngvi).

In Iceland, and even in the Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden), their children were most often dedicated to the god Thor.

Male names in honor of the god Thor:

Torov - Thorir (male name, in honor of Thor),
Þóralfr (Þórolfr) - Toralf or Thorolf (Thor's wolf),
Þorbrandr - Thorbrand (Thor's sword),
Þorbergr - Torberg (rock of the god Thor),
Þorbjörn - Thorbjorn (Thor's bear),
Þorkell - Thorkell (Thor's helmet),
Þorfinnr - Thorfinn (Thor Finn),
Þórðr - Thord (protected by Thor),
Þórhaddr - Thorhadd (hair of the god Thor),
Þorgeirr - Thorgeir (spear of Thor),
Þórarinn - Thorarin (hearth of the god Thor),
Þorleifr - Thorleif (successor of Thor),
Þorsteinn - Torstein (Thor's stone),
Þóroddr - Thorodd (the tip of Thor),
Þormóðr - Tormod (bravery of the god Thor),
Þorviðr - Torvid (Thor's tree),
Þórormr - Tororm (serpent of the god Thor),
Þorvarðr - Thorvard (guardian of the Thors).

Female names in honor of Thor:

Torova – Torah (female name, in honor of Thor),
Þorleif - Thorleif (heiress of Thor),
Þordís, Þórdís - Thordis (disa of the god Thor),
Þórodda - Torodda (the tip of Thor),
Þórarna - Thorarna (the eagle of the god Thor),
Þórhildr - Thorhild (Thor's battle),
Þórný - Tornu (young, dedicated to Thor),
Þórey - Thorey (luck of the god Thor),
Þorljót - Torljot (light of Thor),
Þorvé, Þórvé - Torve (sacred fence of Thor),
Þórunn - Torunn (Thor's favorite),
Þórelfr - Thorelv (river of the god Thor),
Þorvör - Torver (knowing (power) of the Torah).

Children could also be dedicated to all the gods in general. For example, Ragn in translation meant power, gods. Vé - the meaning in translation was as follows: pagan sanctuary, sacred. Both male and female names were formed from these words:

Ragnarr - Ragnar (male name, meaning: army of the gods),
Ragn(h)eiðr - Ragnade (female name, meaning: honor of the gods),
Végeirr - Vegeir (sacred edge),
Véleifr - Veleiv (heir to the sacred place),
Végestr - Vegest (sacred guest),
Ragnhildr - Ragnhild (female name, meaning: battle of the gods),
Vébjörn - Vebjörn (sacred bear or bear sanctuary),
Reginleif - Reginleif (female name, meaning: heiress of the gods),
Vésteinn - Vestein (sacred stone),
Vébrandr - Vebrand (shrine of the sword),
Védís - Vedis (female name: sacred disa),
Véfríðr - Vefrid (female name: sacred protection),
Véný - Venu (female name: sacred and young).

Name in honor of glorious ancestors

There were also family names, one might say, the predecessors of surnames. Children often received names in honor of their deceased ancestors, whose spirit was reborn in a new member of his own clan, with this name the child entered the world of his clan, his family, his clan and tribe. The Scandinavians believed in the transmigration of souls, but this could only happen within one family, among blood relatives and descendants. The name was given only to those relatives who had already died, otherwise one might get into trouble. Naming a child after an existing, living relative was strictly prohibited.

In the Scandinavian world during the Viking Age, and not only at that time, the name was given to the child by the father. The father also decided whether the child would live or not. Naming a child a name gave him the right to life. Names could be given in honor of glorious and powerful relatives (deceased) on both the father’s and mother’s sides of the child. The names could have been chosen in honor of the father's friends and brothers-in-arms.

Viking days of the week Viking names Viking women Dogs and cats in Viking life

Norse mythology

Scandinavian symbols

Viking religion

Runes

Viking weapons

Viking holidays

Scandinavian games

Cult of the beard northern peoples Viking as an ideal man Misconceptions and stereotypes about Vikings

Hello again! Today we will tell you about beautiful Swedish female names. Unlike the selection, where we presented mainly statistical data for 2011 and 2012 and did not talk about their significance.

In this collection we will talk about female names Scandinavian origin and their meanings!

Begin!

AGATA: Italian and Spanish form of the name, derived from Latin Agatha, which means “good, kind.”
ADELA: Latin form of Germanic Adala, means “noble”. Used by the Danes and Swedes.
AGDA: Swedish form from Latin Agatha, means “good, kind.”
AGNETA: Danish and Swedish form of Greek Hagne, means “chaste, holy.”
AGNETTA: Variation from Swedish Agneta, also meaning “chaste, holy.”
ALVA: Swedish feminine form of the old Norwegian name Alf, meaning "Elf".
ANIKA: Variation of the Swedish name Annika, meaning "sweet, graceful."
ANNALISA: Danish and Swedish variation of the name from the Scandinavian Annelise, meaning: "graceful, gracious" and "God is my oath"
ANNBORG: Norwegian and Swedish form of Old Norse Arnbjorg, meaning "under the protection of the eagle."
ANNEKA: Variant of Swedish Annika, meaning "sweet, graceful."
ANNIKA: Swedish version from the German Anniken, meaning "sweet, graceful".
ARNBORG: Swedish form of Old Norse Arnbjorg, meaning "under the protection of the eagle."
ARNBORGH: Old form from Swedish Arnborg, meaning "protected by the eagle."
ÅSA: Swedish form of Icelandic Ása, meaning "God".
ÅSLÖG: Swedish form of Old Norse Áslaug, meaning "God-betrothed woman."
ASRID: Swedish version from the Scandinavian Astrid, meaning "Divine Beauty".
AUDA: Swedish version from Old Norse Auðr, meaning "Very fertile, rich."
BAREBRA: Old Swedish form of the name from the Greek Barbara, meaning "foreign, unfamiliar."
BATILDA: Swedish form of Old German Bathilda, meaning "to fight".
BENEDIKTA: Swedish feminine form of the Scandinavian name Benedikt, meaning "Sacred".
BENGTA: Feminine form of the Swedish name Bengt, meaning "Blessed One".
BOTHILD: Swedish form from Scandinavian Bodil, meaning "Revenge Fight".
CAJSA: Variant derived from Swedish Kajsa, meaning "Pure".
CHARLOTTA: Swedish form of French Charlotte, meaning "Person".
DAHLIA: An English name derived from the name of a flower, from the surname of the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, meaning "valley", hence "Dahl's Flower" or "Valley Flower".
EMELIE: Swedish form from English name Emily means "Competing".
FREDRIKA: Feminine form of Norwegian/Swedish Fredrik, meaning "Peaceful Ruler".
FREJA: Danish and Swedish form of Old Norse Freyja, meaning "lady, mistress".
FRÖJA: Old Swedish form of Old Norse Freyja, meaning "lady, mistress".
GARD: Swedish form of the Old Norse name Gerðr, meaning "enclosure, citadel".
GERDI: Danish and Swedish form of Old Norse Gerðr, meaning "enclosure, citadel".
GERDY: Norwegian and Swedish form of Old Norse Gerðr, meaning "enclosure, citadel".
GITTAN: Swedish diminutive from Scandinavian Birgitta, meaning "exalted".
GRETA: Short form of Danish/Swedish Margareta, meaning "mother-of-pearl".
GULLA
GULLAN: Diminutive name from the Danish-Swedish Gunilla, meaning "Battle".
GUNILLA: Danish and Swedish variant from Scandinavian Gunhild, meaning "Battle".
HELGI: Swedish diminutive from Icelandic Helga, meaning "holy;" dedicated to the gods,” like the male Helgi.
HILLEVI: Finnish and Swedish form of Germanic Heilwig.
IDE: Danish and Swedish form of Icelandic Iða, meaning "industrious".
JANNIKE: Feminine form of Swedish Jannik meaning "God is merciful".
KAI: Variant of Swedish Kaj meaning "pure".
KAIA: Variant of the Swedish/Danish name Kaja, meaning "pure".
K.A.J.: Short form of the Swedish Katerina, meaning "pure".
KAJA: Danish and Swedish diminutive form of the Scandinavian name Katharina, meaning "pure".
KAJSA: Diminutive form of Swedish Kaj, meaning "pure".
KARIN: Short form of Swedish Katerin, meaning "pure".
KATARINA: Swedish form of Greek Aikaterine, meaning "pure". This name is also used in Germany, Hungary, and a variety of Slavic countries.
KATERIN: An old Swedish name, derived from the Greek Aikaterine, meaning "pure".
KATERINA: Swedish form from Scandinavian Katharina, meaning "pure".
KATINA: Short form of Swedish Katarina, meaning "pure".
KERSTIN: Swedish form from Latin name Christina, meaning "Believer" or "follower of Christ".
KIA: A diminutive name from the Swedish Kerstin, meaning "Believer" or "follower of Christ."
KJERSTIN: Norwegian or Swedish form of the Latin name Christina, meaning "Believer" or "Follower of Christ".
KRISTA: Swedish diminutive of the Latin Kristina, meaning "Believer" or "follower of Christ".
LINN: Short name from Swedish Linnéa, meaning "Twin Flower".
LINNÉA: Swedish form of Latin Linnaea, meaning "Twin Flower".
LOTTA: Short form from Swedish Charlotte.
LOVISA: Feminine variant of the Swedish name Love, meaning "famous warrior".
MALIN: Swedish name, derived from the Latin Magdalena.
MARGARETA: Danish and Swedish variant of the Scandinavian name Margaretha, meaning "Mother-of-Pearl".
MARIT: Norwegian and Swedish form of the name from the Greek Margarites meaning "Mother-of-pearl".
MARNA: Swedish form of the Roman Marina, meaning: "From the sea".
MARTA: Swedish form of the English name Margaret, meaning "Mother-of-Pearl".
M.I.A.: Danish and Swedish diminutive name from the Latin Maria, meaning "stubbornness" or "their rebellion."
MIKAELA: Feminine form of Mikael, meaning "Who is like God?"
M.Y.: Swedish diminutive from the Latin Maria, meaning "stubbornness" or "their rebellion."
NEA: Short form from Swedish Linnéa.
NILSINE: Feminine form of the Swedish name Nils, which means "Winner"
ODA: Swedish form of the Old Norse name Auðr, meaning "Deeply Rich".
OTTALIE: Swedish form of German Ottilia meaning "Abounding".
OTTILIE: Variant of the Swedish name Ottalie, meaning "Abounding One".
PERNILLA: Swedish form of Roman Latin Petronilla, meaning "Small rock/stone"
RAGNILD: Swedish variant of the Scandinavian name Ragnhild, meaning "combat advisor".
REBECKA: Swedish form of Greek Rhebekka.
SASSA: Diminutive form of the Swedish name Asrid, meaning "Beautiful God"
SOFIA: Variation of the Greek name Sophia, meaning "Wisdom, common sense" This form of the name is widely used throughout Europe - by Finns, Italians, Germans, Norwegians, Portuguese and Swedes.
SOLVIG: Swedish form of the Old Norse name Solveig, meaning "Strong house, dwelling."
SUSANN: Swedish form of the Scandinavian name Susanna, meaning "Lily".
SVANHILDA: Swedish variant of the Scandinavian name Svanhild.
SVEA: Swedish name, derived from Svea rike ("Empire of the Swedes").
TERESIA: German and Swedish form of spanish name Teresa.
THORBJÖRG: Swedish variation of Icelandic Torbjörg, meaning "Thor's Defense".
THORBORG: Danish and Swedish variation of Icelandic Torbjörg, meaning "Defense of Thor".
THORFRIDH
THORRIDH: Old Swedish form of the Old Norse name Torríðr, meaning "Beauty of Thor".
TORBJÖRG: Old Swedish form of the Old Norse name Torbjörg, meaning "Defense of Thor".
TOHRILDA: Swedish and Norwegian variation of the Scandinavian name Torhild, meaning "Thor's Fight."
TOVA: Swedish variation of the Scandinavian name Tove, meaning "Thor" or "Thunder."
TYRI: Swedish variant from Old Norse Tyri, meaning "Army of Thor".
ULVA: Swedish form of Icelandic Úlfa, meaning "She-Wolf".
VALDIS: Swedish and Norwegian form of the Old Norse name Valdís, meaning "Goddess of the Fallen in Battle."
VALLBORG: Swedish variant of the Scandinavian name Valborg, meaning "Rescuing those killed in battle."
VENDELA: Feminine form from Norwegian/Swedish Vendel, meaning "moving, wandering", referring to the migrating Slavs in the 6th century.
VIVA: Norwegian and Swedish short name from Scandinavian Vivianne, meaning “alive; lively".
VIVEKA: Swedish form of the Germanic name Wibeke, meaning "War".

To be continued…

Translation was carried out by Arkady Karlkvist. When copying, please put a link to this page. If you have your own collections, then send links to them, we will post them on this page.

If you notice any inaccuracies, please report them below in the comments.

Also share your opinions - what names do you like?

Interest in the culture and life of the inhabitants of the Scandinavian countries of the early Middle Ages is constantly growing. This is due to the fascination with antiquities, paganism, sagas), as well as the stable release of films and computer games about the Vikings. The names of the Vikings are no less interesting. They are euphonious, not meaningless and are perfect for pseudonyms and nicknames within a certain circle of people.

Who are the Vikings and where do they come from?

Scandinavian sailors (VIII - XI centuries) are usually called Vikings. They became famous for their sea voyages, which stretched all the way to North Africa. The Vikings were ordinary residents of Denmark, Norway and Sweden who sought to leave their native shores and go in search of a new, better life. Swedish settlers in ancient Russian chronicles are mentioned as Varangians, and the Danish and Norwegian Vikings were nicknamed Normans, based on Latin sources. The most complete description of these sailors, however, is given by the Scandinavian sagas, from which, for the most part, we learned the names of the Vikings, their personalities and manners. In addition, researchers largely gleaned information about names from inscriptions on rune stones.

Noble stone, illustrious wolf, bear: Viking names

Male nicknames for the inhabitants of Scandinavia have been known to researchers for a long time. They are found in chronicles, annals, vaults. Thus, “The Tale of Bygone Years” introduces us to the first Varangian in Rus' - Rurik, who became the founder of the nickname. This nickname can be translated as “glorious king”. Other male Viking names found in the chronicles are no less pretentious. Just remember the rulers Dir (“beast”) and Askold (“golden voice”).

However, as mentioned above, researchers gleaned the bulk of names from inscriptions on rune stones, as well as Scandinavian sagas and tales. Here is a list of some common nicknames at the time:

Ragnar - warrior of the Gods;
Athelstan is a noble stone;
Bjorn is a bear;
Arne - eagle;
Thorstein - Thor's stone;
Leif is the heir.

Names containing an integral part of the name of the god Thor have become widespread: Torquil, Thorstein. It was also considered a good sign to name a person after an animal. This is how the nicknames Bjorn, Arne, Ulf (“wolf”), Ulfbjorn, Vebjorn (“holy bear”) arose.

Beautiful, sowing confusion: Viking female names

The Viking Age also gave rise to special female nicknames, which are often used to this day in Scandinavian countries. Among these the following can be noted:

Sigrid is a wonderful victory;
Ingrid - beautiful;
Ragnhild - advisor in battle;
Gunnhild - battle of battles;
Tove - thunder;
Helga - blessed;
Siggy - shield of victory.

If many male Viking names were associated with the name of the god Thor, then female ones gravitated towards the nicknames of Valkyries - mythological warrior maidens who accompanied the souls of dead warriors to Valhalla. The most famous of the Valkyrie names are:

Randgrid - shield breaker;
Hild - warrior;
Gel - calling;
Mist - foggy;
Company - sowing confusion.

Modern Scandinavian nicknames are used today not only in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, but in other countries around the world. They are beautiful, euphonious and have meanings that many people like.

Naming in Scandinavia

The Scandinavian peoples, during the period when the territory of their residence was a single state, spoke the same language. Of course, this influenced the formation of nicknames and their meaning. Children were named, as in most countries, in Scandinavia, based on the status of the parents and their craft. Sometimes the name was associated with the personal characteristics of a person.

Name formation in this part of the world occurred in several ways, nickname:

was derived from the name of the deity;
came from the name of the animal;
associated with hostilities;
determined belonging to one of the nations.

Several centuries ago, Scandinavian women's names did not differ from men's names. But they still had some peculiarities. For example, if they wanted to name the unborn child as they called the goddess of battles, then the boy was named Gann, and the girl, adding the postfix “dis,” Ganndis. There are “divine” nicknames for the fair sex in Scandinavia, which are not at all intertwined with men’s. Thus, the Hjordis girls are named after the goddess of the sword, and Martina - after the god of war, Mars.

When the name of animals was taken as the basis for the name, animals were chosen that were strong and revered. For example, Bjorn (bear). IN female version this nickname sounds like Bera or Virna. You can also often hear the girls Ilva (she-wolf) and Ursula (bear) in Scandinavia.

The most common basis for the nicknames of the Scandinavian region is military affairs. Everything was taken into account here: the direction of battles (sea and land battles), paraphernalia (spears, helmets, etc.) and the concepts of courage, valor and other manifestations of man. Such beautiful nicknames for the fair sex are known as Alfhild (battle of the elves), Britt (strong), Viveca (warlike), Ingeborg (fortress), Liv (protection), lota (brave, courageous), Matilda, Moa and Tilda (powerful in battle), Nanna (brave), Signy (victory), Sigrid and Syria (secret of victory).

A Scandinavian's name could change over the course of his life. The new nickname was usually associated either with his character and personal qualities, or was his nickname, which, in the opinion of others, suited him much more than the one his parents gave him at birth.

Christian nicknames also took root in the Scandinavian lands. Usually the father named his daughter, and due to the rich and varied choice of “his” names, they were not used often. But over time, it became very popular among people to use components that are associated with Christianity when composing complex nicknames:

Christmand – protection of Christ;
Kristran - the mystery of Christ;
Kristjor – to save, to help.

Popular female names

Nicknames of Scandinavian origin are incredibly popular. But among them there are those that are used most often. This is mainly due to their meaning. Who would refuse to have his daughter's name beautiful and delicate flower? This is, for example, Sanna (lily flower).

Nicknames are usually one-part in Scandinavian languages. They are often used because they are euphonious and easy to remember:

Annie – useful and gracious;
Birte – sublime;
Astra - divine beauty;
Clara - pure, bright;
Ase – divine;
Bodil - battle-revenge;
Gerd – strong;
Dagny - new day;
Ida – hardworking;
Kaya – mistress;
Liv – life;
Tyra - warrior of Thor;
Trine – pure;
Elin is a torch.

Short names most often in Scandinavia became the basis for more complex ones. But they do not lose their charm. And today in many nations you can find the following two-syllable nicknames:

Elizabeth - confirmed by God;
Hedwig - battle of rivals;
Stina is a follower of Christ;
Sigrid is a wonderful victory;
Ragnhild - battle of the defenders;
Wilhelm - protected by a helmet;
Astrid - divine beauty;
Thordis - female Thor;
Gunhilda - military battle;
Gudnyo - Good news;
Solveig - sun ray;
Lisbeth - confirmed by God;
Ingegerd - fenced by Ing;
Tekla - God's glory;
Borghilda is useful in battle.

Sometimes residents of some European countries are puzzled by the Scandinavians' love for two-syllable nicknames, because they are very unique. This is explained primarily by their cheerful disposition. The most extraordinary female names that originated in Scandinavia, which are used to call daughters, are:

Igulfrid is a beautiful hedgehog;
Bjonsk - “To the bottom”;
Ketilrid is a beautiful helmet;
Kolfinna – Sami coal;
Mjodveig - the power of honey;
Oddbjörg is the pinnacle of help;
Sneolaug – snow bride;
Runfrid is a wonderful mystery.