Are you looking to take a break from the everyday naming conventions we use in the US today? Well, hopefully the Norwegian names below open the door to a world of new possibilities for your child.
According to the Norwegian statistics bureau, known as Statistisk sentralbyrå in Norway, nearly 52,000 babies were born in the country last year (2023), including 26,564 baby boys and 25,416 baby girls.
While classic Norwegian names such as Kjell, Åse, Lars, and Solveig are still used by parents today, some Norwegian parents prefer more modern names, such as Fjord, Håkon, Aksel, Sol, and Erling.
RELATED: 70 Unique & Popular European & Norwegian Names From Across the Continent
Whether your family has Norwegian roots or you simply adore the baby names used by Norwegian families, continue reading below for 60 prime examples of unique Norwegian names for your little one.
Norwegian names with Scandinavian origins
Anytime we talk about Norway and the Norwegian language, it’s important to also talk about Scandinavia and the Old Norse language. Although not 100% interchangeable, these terms do share common ground.
Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe that traditionally includes three countries: Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The three primary languages spoken in this region are Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish.
The term “Nordic” refers to a much broader region encompassing Finland, Iceland, and the autonomous territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Åland, alongside the three Scandinavian countries above.
Old Norse was the language spoken by the inhabitants of the Nordic region during the Viking Age and the early medieval period. It’s the ancestral language of modern Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, and Icelandic.
With that said, let’s take a look at some Norwegian names that originated from the Scandinavian region!
10. Jørgen
Origin: Jørgen is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Jørgen is derived from the Greek name Georgios, meaning “farmer” or “earthworker.” It came to Scandinavia through the Latin Georgius and evolved into Jørgen in the region.
Similar-sounding names: Johan, Jakob, Jens, Joran, Julian, Jorund, Jonas, Jannik, Jorgen, and Joar.
9. Aksel
Origin: Aksel is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Aksel is derived from the Hebrew name Absalom, meaning “father of peace.” It was adapted into the Old Norse as Axel and became popular throughout Scandinavia.
Similar-sounding names: Askel, Ansel, Axel, Arvid, Alf, Einar, Eskil, Anders, Alaric, and Ask.
8. Canute
Origin: Canute is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Canute is derived from the Old Norse name Knutr, meaning “knot” or “knotty.” It is associated with King Canute the Great, a famous ruler in Scandinavian history.
Similar-sounding names: Knut, Conrad, Kenneth, Kent, Kuno, Cadoc, Conan, Karsten, Kian, and Kane.
7. Erling
Origin: Erling is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Erling is derived from the Old Norse word jarl, meaning “nobleman” or “earl,” with the suffix -ing implying “descendant of” or “belonging to.”
Similar-sounding names: Erlend, Eirik, Espen, Egil, Endre, Elvar, Einar, Emrik, Erik, and Edwin.
6. Leif
Origin: Leif is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Leif is derived from the Old Norse word leifr, meaning “heir” or “descendant.” It is famously associated with the explorer Leif Erikson.
Similar-sounding names: Liev, Lars, Liv, Levi, Loke, Line, Lennart, Leon, Linden, and Lorne.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: 60 Popular European Boy Names for Your Little World Traveler
5. Sigrid
Origin: Sigrid is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sigrid is derived from the Old Norse elements sigr (victory) and fríðr (beautiful), meaning “beautiful victory” or “victory and peace.”
Similar-sounding names: Siri, Signe, Sigurd, Ingrid, Saga, Sigrún, Selma, Sigrun, Silje, and Synne.
4. Kjell
Origin: Kjell is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Kjell is derived from the Old Norse word kettle (cauldron or helmet).
Similar-sounding names: Kjetil, Ketil, Knut, Kale, Kalle, Kaj, Kael, Kaiden, Kellen, and Kimball.
3. Embla
Origin: Embla is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Embla is derived from Old Norse mythology, where Embla is considered the first woman, created alongside Askr. The name is thought to be related to “elm” or “vine.”
Similar-sounding names: Edda, Elva, Elsa, Erla, Elina, Ena, Ebba, Ella, Eira, and Enna.
2. Stian
Origin: Stian is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Stian is derived from the Old Norse name Stígandr, meaning “wanderer” or “pathfinder.” It comes from the Norse verb stíga, meaning “to step.”
Similar-sounding names: Stefan, Stein, Storm, Svein, Silas, Sten, Stig, Simen, Sindre, and Sigmund.
1. Dagny
Origin: Dagny is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Dagny is derived from the Old Norse words dagr (day) and ný (new), meaning “new day” or “dawn.”
Similar-sounding names: Dagna, Disa, Dina, Diana, Danika, Dagmar, Delia, Daria, Dahlia, and Darby.
Norwegian names inspired by Norwegian cities
Norway is a country in Northern Europe situated on the Scandinavian Peninsula, and bordered by Sweden to the east, Finland and Russia to the northeast, and the North Atlantic Ocean to the west.
As of 2024, Norway has an estimated population of 5.5 million people, according to the U.S. Census. It’s the sixth largest country in Europe and covers an area of approximately 385,207 square kilometers.
The country is known for its striking natural beauty and high standard of living. Its landscape is often described as dramatic and rugged, characterized by fjords, mountains, glaciers, coastlines, and more.
Here are 10 unique Norwegian names that pay tribute to some of the most popular Norwegian cities.
10. Oslo
Origin: Oslo is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Oslo is derived from the Old Norse words áss (god) and lo (meadow or hill), meaning “meadow of the gods” or “God’s meadow.”
City profile: Oslo is Norway’s capital and largest city, situated in the southeastern part of the country along the Oslofjord. It has a population of around 700,000, and key attractions include the Viking Ship Museum, the Oslo Opera House, and the Vigeland Sculpture Park.
9. Bergen
Origin: Bergen is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Bergen comes from the Old Norse bjǫrg, meaning “mountain” or “hill,” and vin (meadow), referring to the city’s landscape.
City profile: Located on the southwestern coast of Norway, Bergen is the country’s second-largest city, with about 290,000 residents. The Fløibanen funicular offers panoramic views of the city, and the nearby fjords make Bergen a gateway to some of Norway’s most beautiful landscapes.
8. Drammen
Origin: Drammen is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Drammen is derived from the Norse word dramm meaning “current” or “flow,” referring to the city’s location along the river.
City profile: Situated just 40 kilometers southwest of Oslo, Drammen has around 105,000 inhabitants. This city along the Drammenselva River is known for its revitalized waterfront area, Strømsø Square, and the Spiralen Tunnel, which leads to scenic views over the city.
7. Asker
Origin: Asker is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Asker is derived from the Old Norse word askr, meaning “ash tree.”
City profile: Located west of Oslo along the Oslofjord, Asker is a suburban municipality with around 95,000 residents. It is known for its beautiful coastal areas, including popular beaches and the Hvalstrand Bad, as well as cultural sites like the Asker Museum.
6. Ålesund
Origin: Ålesund is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ålesund is derived from the Old Norse words áll (eel) and sund (sound or strait), referring to the narrow water passages around the area.
City profile: Ålesund, with about 67,000 residents, is a coastal city in the Sunnmøre region of western Norway, known for its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture. The city is built on a series of islands and serves as a gateway to the Geirangerfjord and is popular for fishing and maritime history.
RELATED: 100 Popular European Girl Names That American Parents Should Consider for Some Variety
5. Skien
Origin: Skien is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Skien is derived from the Old Norse word skíð, meaning “stick” or “log,” and is related to the Skien River in southern Norway, which runs through the town of Skien.
City profile: Located in southeastern Norway, Skien is the capital of the Telemark region, with a population of around 55,000. It is one of Norway’s oldest cities, and is the birthplace of playwright Henrik Ibsen. It also offers cultural attractions such as the Ibsen Museum and scenic waterways, including the Telemark Canal.
4. Bodø
Origin: Bodø is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Bodø is derived from the Old Norse words bóth (shelter) and øy (island), referring to its coastal location.
City profile: Bodø is a city in northern Norway, located just above the Arctic Circle, with about 55,000 residents. It is the largest city in the Nordland region and serves as a gateway to the Lofoten Islands, offering opportunities to see the Northern Lights during winter.
3. Hamar
Origin: Hamar is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Hamar is derived from the Old Norse word hamarr, meaning “rock” or “crag,” referencing the town’s geographic features.
City profile: Situated along the shores of Lake Mjøsa in southeastern Norway, Hamar has a population of around 32,000. It is known for its rich history, including the medieval ruins of Hamar Cathedral and the Domkirkeodden museum, and is a popular destination for winter sports. The Vikingskipet arena, built for the 1994 Winter Olympics, hosts various ice skating events.
2. Arendal
Origin: Arendal is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Arendal comes from the Old Norse words arn (eagle) and dal (valley), meaning “eagle’s valley.”
City profile: Located along the southern coast of Norway, Arendal is home to around 45,000 people. It offers attractions like the historic Tyholmen area and Tromøy island. The annual Arendal Week is a significant political event, and the nearby Raet National Park is popular for outdoor activities.
1. Sunnmøre
Origin: Sunnmøre is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sunnmøre is derived from the Old Norse words sunnr (southern) and mærr (land or region), referring to the region’s southern location in western Norway.
City profile: Sunnmøre is not a city but rather a region in western Norway. It encompasses several towns and cities, including Ålesund, and is renowned for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the Geirangerfjord. The Sunnmøre Alps are a major draw for adventure enthusiasts.
Norwegian names that come from Norse mythology
Norse mythology is a rich body of myths and legends originating from the Nordic countries, particularly Iceland, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. It was developed during the Viking Age (c. 790- c. 1100 CE).
The myths describe a cosmos with Nine Worlds, including Asgard (home of the gods), Midgard (the human world), and Jotunheim (land of the giants), that are connected by the World Tree, Yggdrasil.
The Norwegian names used in Norse mythology are extremely popular today due to the Thor franchise from Marvel Comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), which is heavily rooted in Norse myths.
If you’re inspired by Norse mythology, then check out these Norwegian names linked to Norse gods!
10. Ymir
Origin: Ymir is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ymir is believed to come from the word ymja, meaning “to cry” or “to groan.”
Norse mythology: Ymir is the primordial giant in Norse mythology, believed to be the ancestor of all jötnar (giants). According to legend, he emerged from the melting ice of Ginnungagap, and his body was later used by Odin and his brothers to create the world, including the earth, oceans, and sky.
9. Odin
Origin: Odin is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Odin comes from the Old Norse name Óðinn, which means “lord of frenzy.”
Norse mythology: Odin is the Allfather and the chief god of the Aesir in Norse mythology, associated with wisdom, war, and death. He rules over Asgard and seeks knowledge, even sacrificing an eye to gain wisdom. Odin is also known for presiding over Valhalla, where fallen warriors are welcomed.
8. Freya
Origin: Freya is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Freya is derived from the Old Norse word frjá, meaning “lady” or “noblewoman.”
Norse mythology: Freya is a prominent goddess associated with love, beauty, fertility, and magic. She is one of the Vanir gods but lives among the Aesir after the war between the two groups. Freya is also known for her powerful seeress abilities and her chariot pulled by two cats.
7. Thor
Origin: Thor is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Thor is derived from the Old Norse word þórr, meaning “thunder.”
Norse mythology: Thor is the god of thunder, storms, and strength, and he wields the mighty hammer Mjölnir. As a protector of both gods and humans, he’s known for battling giants and monsters and is often depicted as a fierce warrior.
6. Heimdall
Origin: Heimdall is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Heimdall is derived from Old Norse mythology, combining heim (home, world) and dallr (shining or radiant).
Norse mythology: Heimdall is the guardian of the Bifrost, the rainbow bridge that connects Asgard to Midgard (Earth). Known for his extraordinary senses, he can see and hear across great distances, making him the perfect sentinel against potential threats to the gods. He is also destined to fight Loki during Ragnarök.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Powerful & Inspiring Goddess Names Inspired By Greek, Roman, and Hindu Mythology
5. Týr
Origin: Týr is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Tyr is derived from the Old Norse Týr, meaning “god.”
Norse mythology: Tyr is a god of war and justice, known for his courage and sense of duty. He is famous for sacrificing his hand to bind the great wolf Fenrir, showing his willingness to endure pain for the greater good. Tyr is a symbol of honor and law in Norse mythology.
4. Alva
Origin: Alva is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Alva is derived from the Old Norse álf, meaning “elf” or “supernatural being.”
Norse mythology: Alva is not traditionally a deity but is more commonly associated with the “álfar,” or elves, in Norse mythology. These beings are linked to nature, fertility, and magic and are considered to have a close connection with the gods. The álfr are often seen as mysterious and ethereal.
3. Njord
Origin: Njord is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Njord comes from the Old Norse word Njǫrthr, which means “north.”
Norse mythology: Njord is a Vanir god associated with the sea, wind, and wealth, particularly prosperity from maritime trade and fishing. He is the father of Frey and Freya and is known for his ability to calm the seas and bring good fortune to seafarers. Njord’s home is in Noatun, a place near the ocean.
2. Vidar
Origin: Vidar is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Vidar is derived from Old Norse elements víðr (wide) and arr (warrior), meaning “wide warrior” or “forest warrior.”
Norse mythology: Vidar is a son of Odin and is known as the god of vengeance and silence. He plays a crucial role in the events of Ragnarök, where he avenges his father by slaying the wolf Fenrir. Vidar is associated with strength and resilience and is often seen as a figure of stoic determination.
1. Loki
Origin: Loki is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The etymology of Loki is uncertain, but it may relate to the Old Norse word lúka, meaning “to close” or “to end.”
Norse mythology: Loki, known as the trickster god, is a shape-shifter and master of deceit, often causing trouble for the gods of Asgard while occasionally helping them with his cleverness. He’s the father of several powerful beings, including the wolf Fenrir, the serpent Jörmungandr, and the half-dead, half-living Hel.
Norwegian names inspired by the Royal Family
Norway is considered a constitutional monarchy, meaning it has a monarch (a king or queen) as its head of state, but the monarch’s powers are limited and defined by the constitution and laws of the country.
The Constitution of Norway, which was adopted in 1814 and is one of the oldest constitutions still in use, outlines the division of powers between the monarch, government, Storting (Parliament), and the courts.
As for the Norwegian Royal Family, they play an active role in public life by supporting charitable causes and engaging with citizens throughout the country, much like the Monarchy of the United Kingdom (UK).
With that said, here are some Norwegian names inspired by current members of Norway’s Royal Family.
10. Harald
Origin: Harald is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Harald is derived from Old Norse Haraldr, composed of elements hár (army) and valdr (ruler), meaning “army ruler” or “commander.”
Who is King Harald V? Born on February 21, 1937, King Harald V ascended the throne in 1991. As the first Norwegian-born monarch in over 600 years, he has played a vital role in modernizing the monarchy and maintaining a close relationship with the Norwegian people.
9. Sonja
Origin: Sonja is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sonja is derived from Sophia, meaning “wisdom” in Greek. It became popular in Scandinavia as a variation of the Russian form Sonia.
Who is Queen Sonja? Born on July 4, 1937, Queen Sonja is known for her passion for art, culture, and humanitarian work. As King Harald’s wife, she became Norway’s first queen of common descent and has since been an advocate for social causes and the arts.
8. Mette-Marit
Origin: Mette-Marit is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Mette-Marit combines Mette (a Danish form of Margarethe, meaning “pearl”) and Marit (a form of Margareta), signifying preciousness.
Who is Crown Princess Mette-Marit? Born on August 19, 1973, Crown Princess Mette-Marit married Crown Prince Haakon in 2001. She has focused her royal duties on promoting literature, youth empowerment, and causes related to health and well-being.
7. Haakon
Origin: Haakon is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Haakon is derived from Old Norse Hákon, meaning “high son” or “chosen son.” It was commonly used among Scandinavian royalty.
Who is Crown Prince Haakon Magnus? Born on July 20, 1973, Crown Prince Haakon is the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne. He is dedicated to environmental issues, innovation, and sustainable development, playing a key role in Norway’s transition towards a greener future.
6. Märtha
Origin: Märtha is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Märtha is derived from the Aramaic name Marta, meaning “lady” or “mistress.”
Who is Princess Märtha Louise? Born on September 22, 1971, Princess Märtha Louise is King Harald and Queen Sonja’s eldest child. Though she stepped back from official royal duties, she has pursued a career in alternative therapy and writing, and she often speaks about spirituality and self-empowerment.
RELATED: A Royal Roundup of 40 Prince Names for Your Little King
5. Ingrid
Origin: Ingrid is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ingrid is derived from the Old Norse Ingríðr, combining Ing (a Norse deity) and fríðr (beautiful), meaning “beloved of Ing” or “beautiful.”
Who is Princess Ingrid Alexandra? Born on January 21, 2004, Princess Ingrid Alexandra is second in line to the Norwegian throne after her father, Crown Prince Haakon.
4. Sverre
Origin: Sverre is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sverre is derived from the Old Norse sverrir, meaning “wild” or “restless.”
Who is Prince Sverre Magnus? Born on December 3, 2005, Prince Sverre Magnus is the younger child of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit.
3. Maud
Origin: Maud is of Germanic origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Maud is derived from the Germanic name Mathilda, meaning “mighty in battle” or “strength in battle.”
Who is Maud Angelica Behn? Born on April 29, 2003, Maud Angelica is the eldest daughter of Princess Märtha Louise and the late Ari Behn. She has shown a talent for art and has been open about the importance of mental health awareness, following the loss of her father.
2. Isadora
Origin: Isadora is of Greek origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Isadora is derived from the Greek Isídōra, meaning “gift of Isis.” It combines Isis (the Egyptian goddess) and doron (gift).
Who is Leah Isadora Behn? Born on April 8, 2005, Leah Isadora is the second daughter of Princess Märtha Louise and Ari Behn. She is known for her interest in fashion and social media, carving out a path as an influencer and beauty enthusiast in Norway.
1. Tallulah
Origin: Tallulah is of Native American origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Tallulah is derived from the Choctaw word oktalúli, meaning “leaping water” or “jumping water.” It is often associated with nature.
Who is Emma Tallulah Behn? Born on September 29, 2008, Emma Tallulah is the youngest daughter of Princess Märtha Louise and Ari Behn. Like her sisters, she is gradually stepping into the public eye, with a keen interest in horseback riding and other outdoor pursuits.
Most popular Norwegian names in 2023
The Statistisk sentralbyrå (SSB), or Statistics Norway, is responsible for collecting and maintaining data on baby names in Norway, much like the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) does in America.
This data typically includes rankings of names for both boys and girls, showing trends over time and regional variations. The SSB releases new data every year and has data dating back to the 1880s.
As long as a name has been used more than three times, it makes its way into their search engine. For example, the most popular name in 2023 was Lucas/Lukas, which was given to 494 baby boys last year.
With that said, let’s take a look at the 10 most popular Norwegian names in 2023, according to the SSB.
10. Olivia
Origin: Olivia is of Latin origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Olivia is derived from the Latin word oliva, meaning “olive” or “olive tree.”
SSB Data: 366 Norwegian babies were given the name Olivia in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Livia, Olive, Alivia, Ophelia, Olympia, Eliana, Alia, Odelia, Olena, and Octavia.
9. Emma
Origin: Emma is of Germanic origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Emma is derived from the Germanic word ermen, meaning “whole” or “universal.”
SSB Data: 360 Norwegian babies were given the name Emma in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Ella, Emilia, Emily, Etta, Emme, Emmeline, Gemma, Esme, Alma, and Elma.
8. Ella
Origin: Ella is of Germanic origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ella is derived from the Germanic element ali, meaning “other” or “foreign.” It also has roots in Old English, meaning “fairy maiden” or “beautiful.”
SSB Data: 341 Norwegian babies were given the name Ella in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Elle, Ellie, Elsa, Eliza, Elya, Alma, Alina, Elisa, Elva, and Elara.
7. Leah
Origin: Leah is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Leah is derived from the Hebrew word le’ah, meaning “weary” or “delicate.” In the Bible, Leah is the wife of Jacob.
SSB Data: 328 Norwegian babies were given the name Leah or Lea in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Lia, Lila, Leya, Lena, Lyra, Leia, Leora, Lina, Liana, and Layla.
6. Sophie
Origin: Sofie is of Greek origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sofie is derived from the Greek word sophia, meaning “wisdom.” It is a variation of the name Sophia, commonly used in Scandinavian countries.
SSB Data: 323 Norwegian babies were given the name Sofie or Sophie in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Sophia, Sofía, Sylvie, Sylva, Sonia, Suri, Susie, Seline, Saffron, and Sofina.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: 50 Unique & Popular Finnish Girl Names for Your Precious Little Vauva
5. Lukas
Origin: Lukas is of Greek origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Lukas is derived from the Greek Loukas, meaning “from Lucania,” a region in Southern Italy. It is a popular variant of the name Luke.
SSB Data: 494 Norwegian babies were given the name Lucas or Lukas in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Lucas, Lucian, Luca, Louis, Levi, Logan, Lennox, Loren, Linus, and Lionel.
4. Noah
Origin: Noah is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Noah is derived from the Hebrew word Noach, meaning “rest” or “comfort.” In the Bible, Noah is known for building the ark.
SSB Data: 410 Norwegian babies were given the name Noah or Noa in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Jonah, Nolan, Noah, Nova, Noam, Nolan, Niall, Noor, Noel, and Nate.
3. Isak
Origin: Isak is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Isak is derived from the Hebrew Yitzhak, meaning “he will laugh” or “laughter.” It is a Scandinavian variant of the name Isaac.
SSB Data: 365 Norwegian babies were given the name Isak, Isac or Isaac in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Isaac, Ilias, Ivar, Isidore, Ivan, Isaiah, Idris, Eliakim, Ilan, and Inar.
2. Oliver
Origin: Oliver is of Latin origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Oliver is derived from the Latin olivarius, meaning “olive tree.”
SSB Data: 365 Norwegian babies were given the name Oliver in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Olivier, Olav, Orin, Oscar, Owen, Otis, Alvin, Orion, Ollie, and Oberon.
1. Kasper
Origin: Kasper is of Persian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Kasper is derived from the Persian Gizbar, meaning “treasurer.” It is a Scandinavian and German variant of the name Casper.
SSB Data: 352 Norwegian babies were given the name Kasper or Casper in 2023.
Similar-sounding names: Jasper, Kasimir, Kaden, Kester, Kai, Kasey, Kepler, Kieran, Kristoffer, and Kason.
Most popular Norwegian names of all time
Now that we know what Norwegian names are popular today, let’s take a look at what the data says for the most popular Norwegian names of all time. Don’t worry, the SBB keeps that data up-to-date for us!
For example, the girl names Anna and Marie were the two most popular girl’s names in Norway between 1880 and 1900. Anna remained the most popular girl’s name until 1917, when Solveig entered that spot.
While Anna was off the top of the list, the name Anne held the No. 1 spot between 1940 and 1971.
For the boys, Ole and Olav were the two most popular names between 1880 and 1910, though Johan made a few stops at the top. Arne, Jan, Kristian, Lucas, and Markus also have deep history in Norway.
With that said, here’s a closer look at 10 of the most popular Norwegian names since 1880.
10. Nora
Origin: Nora is of Latin origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Nora is derived from the Latin honora, meaning “honor.” It is also a short form of Eleonora or Honora.
Similar-sounding names: Cora, Nola, Nola, Norah, Nova, Noemi, Zara, Lora, Elora, and Aurora.
9. Ida
Origin: Ida is of Germanic origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ida is derived from the Germanic word id, meaning “labor” or “work.”
Similar-sounding names: Isla, Ada, Ila, Iva, Iona, Ines, Inga, Aida, Irma, and Ivy.
8. Silje
Origin: Silje is of Norwegian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Silje is derived from the Latin name Cecilia, meaning “blind.” It is a popular name in Norway and is a variant of Celia.
Similar-sounding names: Signe, Siri, Selma, Saga, Sylvia, Stella, Sheila, Sienna, Sigrid, and Sira.
7. Solveig
Origin: Solveig is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Solveig is derived from the Old Norse elements salr (house) and veig (strength), meaning “sun strength” or “sun path.”
Similar-sounding names: Sigurd, Sigrid, Sola, Selvi, Synnøve, Sylvia, Solana, Sanna, Svala, and Sonja.
6. Bjørg
Origin: Bjørg is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Bjørg is derived from the Old Norse word bjarga, meaning “to help” or “to save.” It is often associated with protection.
Similar-sounding names: Birgit, Berit, Beate, Brita, Bjorn, Brynja, Brigitta, Bente, Bera, and Bjarte.
RELATED: 50 Popular German Names for Your Little Bundle of Joy
5. Arne
Origin: Arne is of Old Norse origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Arne is derived from the Old Norse ǫrn, meaning “eagle.”
Similar-sounding names: Arvid, Aron, Anders, Aksel, Ansel, Alden, Arlen, Arlo, Arian, and Arik.
4. Ole
Origin: Ole is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Ole is derived from the Old Norse Óláfr, meaning “ancestor’s relic” or “heir.” It is a traditional name in Norway and Denmark.
Similar-sounding names: Ola, Olaf, Olin, Otto, Orin, Owen, Onni, Ollie, Eole, and Orion.
3. Jan
Origin: Jan is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Jan is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning “God is gracious.” It is a popular variation of John in many European countries.
Similar-sounding names: Johan, Jens, Jonas, Jannik, Joel, Jace, Jean, Jay, Joran, and Jasper.
2. Markus
Origin: Markus is of Latin origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Markus is derived from the Latin Marcus, meaning “dedicated to Mars,” the Roman god of war.
Similar-sounding names: Martin, Marcel, Magnus, Mason, Max, Marlon, Marek, Marius, Mathias, and Marvin.
1. Kristian
Origin: Kristian is of Greek origin.
Derivation and meaning: The name Kristian is derived from the Greek christianós, meaning “follower of Christ.”
Similar-sounding names: Kristoffer, Karsten, Kieran, Kasper, Calvin, Kristine, Keenan, Kester, Kurt, and Klaus.
Will your child sport one of these Norwegian names?
Norwegian names might be a little too unique for some American parents, but they’re perfect for those who want a distinctive name that’s unlikely to be duplicated in most classrooms across North America.
Just think back to your own childhood. How many kids named Freya and Oslo did you know growing up?
If you’re anything like me, then the answer to that question is 0. And since people like us enjoy the rarities in life, we’re often a little more open to Norwegian names and names with Scandinavian or Nordic origins.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Check Out Our Baby Name Generator for More Baby Name Ideas!
But for those who aren’t like me, then you might be looking for something completely different for your child. If that’s the case, then we have thousands of more baby name ideas at our Mamas Uncut blog!
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.
Baby Name Generator
No baby name sounding good? Want a quick way to generate unique baby name ideas? Try our baby name generator below!
Set your terms (sex of the baby, number of letters, popularity, etc.) and then get a list of names that meet your criteria. Maybe the perfect name is just waiting to be generated for you.