Scandinavian female names. Origin of new names

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

Take, for example, at least Ragnar Lothbrok, known to many on the television series "Vikings". "Lothbrok" ​​translates to "hairy pants", which alludes to the piece 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 it is more correct to translate “Lothbrok” as “hairy ass”, but it would be unlikely that even among the brave Vikings there would be a madman who would dare to call the ferocious king that way.

Sons of Ragnar bore no less curious nicknames: Sigurd the Serpent-in-the-eye (so-called for his piercing "serpentine" look), Bjorn Ironside (received a nickname for his insensitivity to pain and the good chain mail he wore) and Ivar the Boneless (distinguished by incredible flexibility and dexterity ).

Norwegian king Elvir Detolyub got his nickname not for his perverted addictions, as you might think, but for an incredible act of humanism by the standards of the Vikings: he forbade his warriors ... to string children on spears for fun!

Harald I, king of Denmark and Norway, was nicknamed "Bluetooth" by his subjects. He got such a strange nickname because he liked to feast on blueberries. However, the version sounds more plausible that Harald was nicknamed not Blatand (“Blue-toothed”), but Bletand (“Dark-haired”). WITH Harald Sinezuby very connected interesting fact: it is in his honor that the Bluetooth technology, created just by the Danish-Norwegian development team, is named.

Rollon Pedestrian- Viking Hrolf, who managed to conquer part of France and become the ancestor 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 a long time. So Rollo had to walk.

King of Norway Eric I Bloodaxe earned such a terrifying prefix to his name for consistently slaughtering his relatives who could become his rivals in the struggle for the throne. Interestingly, Eric still could not get to one of his brothers, Hakon, who overthrew him. Obviously, compared to Eric, even the stern Hakon looked like a real charmer and, by contrast, received the nickname "Kind".

Few people know the following interesting fact: the English king William I during his lifetime was more often called Wilhelm the Bastard(behind the eyes, 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 dad also had 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 wore very dissonant nickname"Kopronim" ("Dermon-named") for the fact that, as a baby, during his baptism, he shat right in the font.

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

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 because of his short-sighted policy, he lost all his possessions in France and authority among the English chivalry. For this he was given a mocking nickname - "Landless". Also because of the constant defeats of the king teased "Softsword" - "Soft Sword". It is interesting that in medieval England they called the impotent. 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. Evil tongues used to say that making children is the only thing the monarch does well. The authority of John was so low that not a single English ruler called his heirs by this name anymore.

King of Bohemia and Hungary Ladislav was nicknamed "The Grave" because he was born 4 months after the sudden death of his father from dysentery.

In the XVII-beginning. 18th century ruler of Japan Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, popularly nicknamed the "Dog Shogun". Tsunayoshi forbade the killing of stray dogs and ordered that they be fed at public expense. Interestingly, the diet of the dog under this shogun was much richer than the diet of the peasant. By order of the governor, contact street dogs was supposed to be exclusively "noble lord", violators were beaten with sticks. True, after the death of the shogun, his “dog lobby” ceased to operate.

french king Louis Philippe d'Orleans received the nickname "Pear" for the fact that over the years his figure began to resemble this particular fruit. In addition, the French word “lapoire” (“pear”) has a second meaning - “moron”. In general, it is easy to guess how much the French loved this king of theirs.

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

The names of the defenders of the Scandinavians

Often, parents gave a name to a newborn that would personify 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 (assistant),
• Skúli - Skuli (defender),
• Högni - Hogni (defender),
• Birgir - Birgir (assistant),
• Jöðurr - Yodur (defender),
• Uni - Uni (friend, happy).
• Eiðr - Eid (oath),
• Leifr - Leif (heir),
• Tryggvi - Tryggvi (loyal, reliable),
• Óblauðr - Oblaud (bold and brave),
• Ófeigr - Ofeig (not doomed to death, you can say happy),
• Trausti - Trausti (one who is trustworthy, reliable),
• Þráinn - Thrain (stubborn),

Women's names for girls, who also personified the future protectors and helpers of the family and the whole family:

• Bót - Bot (help, help),
• Erna - Erna (skillful),
• Björg - Björg (salvation, protection),
• Una - Una (friend, happy).

Of course, the 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 as 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 (top),
• Tindr - Tind (top),
• Knutr - Whip (knot).

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

When choosing, inventing a name for the baby, parents were guided by various principles and desires for the future characteristic features of their child, his fate. 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 - Fried (beautiful and beloved),
• Fríða - Frida (beautiful),
• Ósk - Osk (desire, desired),
• Ölvör - Elver (happy),
• Heiðr - Heid (glory).

The boys were named:

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

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

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

Each boy from an early age learned the military craft in order to be able to protect himself and his loved ones, his land, therefore the names of the boys (and the 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 conducting raids, the Vikings enriched themselves, brought slaves and gold from the raid to the family, after several raids, you can become a merchant and significantly improve the state of affairs of the whole family, because money was needed at all times, and silver Arab coins of dirhams 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, weapons. The man is a warrior! A bellicose character and fighting spirit for a boy, and then for a man, were not negative characteristics at that difficult time.

Names of warriors and warriors of the Vikings

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

• Hróðgeirr - Hrodgeir (spear of glory),
• Hróðketill - Hrodketil (helmet of glory),
• Bogi - Gods (bow),
• Hróðmarr - Hrodmar (fame of glory),
• Hróðný - Hrodnyu (youth of glory),
• Hróðolfr - Hrodolph (wolf of glory, maybe a glorious wolf),
• Hróðgerðr - Hrodgerd (fence of glory),
• Brandr - Brand (sword),
• Hróðvaldr - Hrodwald (power of glory),
• Geirr - Geir (spear),
• Eiríkr - Eirik (very mighty and strong),
• Darri - Darri (throwing spear),
• Broddi - Broddy (point),
• Egill - Egil (blade),
• Gellir - Gellir (loud or sword),
• Gyrðir - Gyurdir (belted with a sword),
• Klœngr - Kleong (claw),
• Naddr - Nadd (point or spear),
• Oddi - Oddi (point) or Oddr - Odd (also point),
• Vígi - Vigi (fighter),
• Óspakr - Ospak (not peaceful, warlike),
• Vigfúss - Vigfus (belligerent, eager to fight and kill),
• Ósvífr - Osvivr (ruthless),
• Styrmir - Styurmir (terrible, even stormy),
• Sörli - Sorli (in armor),
• Þiðrandi - Tidrandi (looking, observing),
• Styrr - Styur (battle),
• Ulf - Ulf or Wulf (wolf)
• Uggi - Uggs (terrible),
• 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 integral part various female names.

Names that symbolize protection:

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

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

• Sigarr - Sigar (warrior of victory or battle, battle),
• Sigbjörn - Sigbjorn (bear of battle),
• Sigfúss - Sigfus (ardent bright battle),
• Sigfinnr - Sigfinn (Finn of battle, warlike Finn),
• Sigvaldi - Sigvaldi (ruler or ruler of victory),
• Siggeirr - Siggeir (spear of victory),
• Sigsteinn - Sigstein (stone of victory),
• Sigtryggr - Sigtrygg (victory is sure),
• Sighvatr - Sigvat (victory of the brave),
• Sigurðr - Sigurd (guardian of victory, maybe guardian of battle),
• Sigmundr - Sigmund (hand of victory),
• Signý - Signy (female name, meant a new victory),
• Sigrfljóð - Sigrflöd (female name, meaning: girl of victory),
• Sigþrúðr - Sigtrud (also a female name, meaning: battle power),
• Sigrún - Sigrun (female 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-amulets in order to protect the child from evil forces. Quite numerous in those difficult times were names denoting certain animals and birds. Some named children after an animal, so that its property would pass from it to the child, for example, speed of reaction, dexterity, grace, and others. In this case, this animal, the bird, even became a talisman and a guardian of the child from evil forces and twists of fate for life. pagan beliefs they talked about the close relationship between man and all living things, wildlife was in harmony with man for a very long time, people drew strength from plants and animals. There was such a symbolic connection between a person and an animal, whose name he bears.

Male names-amulets of animals:

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

Female names-amulets of animals:

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

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

Names-amulets were also such:

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

Viking nicknames

Not always the name given to the child at birth remained with him for life. Very often, the Vikings received more appropriate names and nicknames that were more appropriate for them already in their adulthood. 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 (by hair or eyes they could give a name at the birth of a child as well), according to his social status and even origin.

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

• Atli - Atli (rough),
• Kjötvi - Kyotvi (fleshy),
• Flóki - Floki (curly, curly),
• Kolli - Collie (bald),
• Fróði - Frodi (wise, scholar),
• Greipr - Grape (one with big and strong hands),
• Forni - Forni (ancient, old),
• Hödd - Hodd (a woman with very beautiful hair),
• Grani - Edges (whiskered),
• Höskuldr - Hoskuld (gray-haired),
• Hösvir - Hyosvir (gray-haired),
• Kára - Kara (curly),
• Barði - Bardi (bearded),
• Narfi - Narvi (thin and even skinny),
• Krumr - Krum (stooped),
• Skeggi - Skeggi (bearded man),
• Loðinn - Lodin (hairy),
• Hrappr or Hvati - Hrapp or Grab (fast, ardent),
• Rauðr - Raud (red),
• Reistr - Reist (straight and high),
• Lúta - Luta (stooped),
• Skarfr - Scarv (greedy),
• Gestr - Gest (guest),
• Sölvi - Sölvi (pale),
• Glum - Glum (dark-eyed),
• Hörðr - Hurd (a man from Hördaland in Norway),
• Snerrir - Snerrir (difficult, difficult),
• Sturla - Sturla (impatient, emotional, restless).
• Gauti or Gautr - Gauti or Gaut (Gaut, Swede),
• Hálfdan - Halfdan (half-dan),
• Höðr - Hod (a man from Hadaland in Norway),
• Smiðr - Smid (blacksmith),
• Skíði - Skidi (skier),
• Sveinn - Svein (boy, guy, boy, servant),
• Gríma - Grima (mask, helmet, night, possibly a name for a witch, sorceress or healer),
• Gróa (Gró) - Gro (plant, healer, healer, woman who worked with herbs),
• Huld, Hulda - Huld, Hulda (mystery, veil, or even an elven maiden).

Names for sorcerers, magicians, witches they also gave peculiar ones, based on the type of their occupation.

• Kol - in translation means black and even coal.
• Finna or finnr - translated means Finn or Finn (in ancient times they were considered good magicians, sorcerers, witches and sorcerers).
• 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 parts, for example, female names: Kolfinna and Kolgríma - Kolfinna and Kolgrim or male names: Kolfinnr or Kolgrímr - Kolfinn or Kolgrim.

Viking names after gods

The Vikings adhered to the ancient pagan faith Asatru (fidelity to the Ases), according to which there was a pantheon of gods who were ordinary people, but became gods for their heroism and stamina, thanks to physical and spiritual strength. The Vikings, the ancient Scandinavians took the gods as an example and wanted to be like them, just as brave, strong, beautiful, therefore 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 him with the fate of their child.

The following female names were dedicated to God Yngwie - Freyr:

• Inga - Inga,
• Freydís - Freydis (dis of Freyr or Freya),
• Ingunn - Ingunn (pleased, Yngwie's friend),
• Ingileif - Ingileif (heiress of Yngwie),
• Ingigerðr - Ingigerd (protection of Yngwie),
• Ingvör (Yngvör) - Yngvör (in charge of Yngvi),
• Yngvildr - Ingvild (battle of Yngvi).

Male names in honor of the gods:

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

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

Male names in honor of the god Thor:

• Thorov - Thorir (male name, in honor of Thor),
• Þóralfr (Þórolfr) - Thoralv or Thorolf (Thor's wolf),
• Þorbrandr - Thorbrand (Thor's sword),
• Þorbergr - Thorberg (rock of the god Thor),
• Þorbjörn - Thorbjorn (bear of Thor),
• Þorkell - Thorkel (Thor's helmet),
• Þorfinnr - Thorfinn (Thor Finn),
• Þórðr - Tord (protected by Thor),
• Þórhaddr - Torhadd (the hair of the god Thor),
• Þorgeirr - Thorgeir (Thor's spear),
• Þórarinn - Thorarin (the hearth of the god Thor),
• Þorleifr - Thorleif (heir of Thor),
• Þorsteinn - Thorstein (Thor's stone),
• Þóroddr - Thorodd (thor's point),
• Þormóðr - Tormod (the courage of the god Thor),
• Þorviðr - Torvid (Thor's tree),
• Þórormr - Thororm (serpent of the god Thor),
• Þorvarðr - Torvard (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 (Tor's point),
• Þórarna - Torarna (the eagle of the god Thor),
• Þórhildr - Thorhild (Thor's battle),
• Þórný - Tornyu (young, dedicated to Thor),
• Þórey - Torey (luck of the god Thor),
• Þorljót - Torljot (light of Thor),
• Þorvé, Þórvé - Torve (the sacred fence of Thor),
• Þórunn - Thorunn (Thor's favorite),
• Þórelfr - Torrelv (river of the god Thor),
• Þorvör - Torver (who knows the (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 - Ragneid (female name, meaning: honor of the gods),
• Végeirr - Vegeir (sacred point),
• Véleifr - Veleif (heir to a sacred place),
• Végestr - Vegest (sacred guest),
• Ragnhildr - Ragnhild (female name, meaning: battle of the gods),
• Vébjörn - Vebjorn (sacred bear or bear sanctuary),
• Reginleif - Reginleif (female name, meaning: heiress of the gods),
• Vesteinn - Vestein (sacred stone),
• Vébrandr - Vebrand (sword sanctuary),
• 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 generic 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 their own kind, with this name the child entered the world of his kind, his family, his clan and tribe. The Scandinavians believed in the transmigration of souls, but this could only happen within one clan, among blood relatives and descendants. The name was given only to those relatives who had already died, otherwise you could bring trouble. Naming a child after an existing, living relative was strictly forbidden.

The northern peoples are placed in difficult conditions by nature itself, so they have long been accustomed to living in a harmonious and friendly way to solve problems. And the tradition of giving children certain names comes from the distant past, which is why so many of them are not only beautiful and sonorous, but also ancient. Let's get acquainted with male and female Scandinavian names, their meaning and origin.

general information

Like many other nationalities, the Scandinavians believe that the name given to a person at birth will largely determine his fate, endow him with certain qualities. Therefore, they are very responsible in their choice. Most of the Scandinavian names are associated with the mythological beliefs of the northerners, many variants come from the names of animal objects and flora, often there are two parts in the composition, each of which brings its own shade of meaning.

For men

The inhabitants of the north, the proud Vikings, led a dangerous life, full of bloody wars and magnificent feasts, at which wine flowed like a river. To some, such a world may seem barbaric, to others - filled with romance. In any case, such traditions could not but be reflected in the male Scandinavian names, each of which endowed its owner with certain character traits. Here are some examples:

• Agmund - protecting from punishment.
• Alfgeir - spear of an elf.
• Anders is brave.
• Ansgar is the spear of Ases, the supreme deities of the Scandinavian pantheon inhabiting Asgard. At their head was the great Odin.
• Bernt is fearless.
• Vardy - devoted friend able to help in any situation.
• Westgeir means western spear. There was also a Scandinavian male name Westmar, meaning "land of the West".
• Georg - owner of the land.
• Goody is good.
• Dyarvi is a daredevil.
• Ingemar - who earned his fame in battles.
• Olaf is the next.
• Stainmod is a stone that gives courage.
• Eyvind is the wind that brings happiness.

These are the male northern names, but it should be noted that this is by no means a complete list. The Scandinavians are surprisingly inventive, and therefore the names for boys are unusual, beautiful, noble.

Mighty Animals Theme

Often, representatives of the world of fauna became the primary source of Scandinavian male names, who deserved a respectful attitude in creating fearless northerners. Here are some examples:

• Arnbjorn - an eagle and a bear, a man named so, endowed with courage, fearlessness, readiness to go into battle with the strongest enemy.
• Arnulv is an eagle wolf, also the name of a real warrior, hardened in battles and ready to risk his life.
• Asbjorn is the bear of Ases, the animal was revered in the north as a mighty companion of the gods, sometimes even Odin appeared in his guise.
• Audulv - a rich wolf, consists of two roots - "aud" - welfare, "ulv" - wolf.
• Bjorn is just a bear, but Webjern is a name meaning "holy bear".
• Valgard - protection of the falcon.
• Greenolf is a green wolf. Gunnulv is a wolf who takes part in battles. Ingovolv is the king's wolf.
• Jon is a dove.
• Kjarval is a peaceful whale.
• Orm is a snake.
• Svan is a snow-white swan.
• Ulvbjorn is a wolf-bear.
• Hawk is a bird hawk.

It was believed that such names endow the boy with valor and courage, which, of course, could help him become a real warrior and take his place in the halls of Valhalla after a heroic death in battle. Times have changed now, so so old Scandinavian names out of favor, they gave way to more modern European options.

Beautiful options for girls

Of course, women in the north are no less hardy than men, so often the meaning of their names also had the primary source of animals or birds, for which the struggle for existence is a familiar state. Here are examples of female Scandinavian names:

• Adela is noble.
• Astrid - divine beauty.
• Benedict is sacred.
• Brynhild is a warrior.
• Vigdis is the god of war.
• Ingeborg - hurrying to help.
• Inga is powerful.
• Kia - believing.
• Rebecca - alluring, leading into a trap.
• Svanhild, Svanhild - battle of the swan.
• Susanna is a noble lily.
• Freya is the ruler.
• Hilda - battle, battle.

The names are very diverse, unusual. It should be noted that barbarian pagan traditions turned out to be so strong that even the adoption of Christianity could not change the traditional Scandinavian female names, they retained their relevance. The church, seeing that the northerners categorically refuse to name their children in honor of the saints, went to the trick: some heroes of Scandinavia were canonized, so their names were included in the names. Until now, girls in Norway and Denmark are sometimes called very beautifully and unusually. Some of the options were used even by the Slavic peoples.

Sound options for real men and true ladies

Among the names of Scandinavian origin, there are many beautiful, modern ones that can be used to name boys, not even necessarily northerners. Examples are quite numerous, some of them are presented in the table.

These are the variants of the names of men and women who came from the countries of Scandinavia. They sound beautiful, have a worthy value, therefore they are often used not only in the north, but also in Europe, America and even Russia. Many Scandinavian names have a formidable, warlike meaning associated with religion or battle. One can note such a feature of the names - the presence of one or two syllables, three- and more complex variants are extremely rare.

For the strongest women

In the list of beautiful Scandinavian names, there are many that sound very unusual, for example, Auda, which means "prosperity." It is interesting that even the variations for girls among the proud northerners are imbued with the spirit of war, physical strength and weapons. Here are some examples:

• Arnkatla - the helmet of an eagle.
• Asgerda - protection of the deity.
• Bera is a bear.
• Sigga is the winner.
• Una is lucky.
• Frigga is the wife of the supreme god Odin.

These are some of the female names of Scandinavia.

Features of construction and use

Regardless of the sex of the newborn, it was up to the father to name him, but often two components were present in the name of the child at once, from the father and from the mother. Even modern variations have managed to preserve their beauty and originality, since the northerners did not follow the beaten European path, but preferred to salute centuries-old traditions. Therefore, such names as Birgitta - towering, Vigdis - under the auspices of the goddess of war, Ilva - a she-wolf, Henrika - a zealous housewife, housekeeper, Hulda - keeping a secret, have been preserved.

However, Scandinavian names do not always have such a long history and deep meaning. Some residents of Denmark and Sweden call their daughters Anna, Maria, Christina, Elizabeth, Eva - these options are popular all over the world.

Modern tendencies

Interestingly, the naming culture has survived to the greatest extent in Iceland, where there is a naming committee that strictly monitors how babies are named and can prohibit the use of a particular foreign name. In this country, it is highly desirable to use precisely the ancient variations that were mentioned in folk epic. But the Swedes and Norwegians often turn to borrowings from England and France.

So we have learned that most of Scandinavian names refers to those times when people believed in formidable gods and the magical connection of a person with an animal - a totem. That is why so many boys and girls have a direct relationship with some kind of patron animal, most often endowed with strength, power and courage. Of course, modernity has invaded the traditions of naming children, so beautiful-sounding ancient names are becoming less and less popular, giving way to pan-European ones.

Modern names of different countries differ in origin, cultural and historical heritage, the influence of various religions. In countries such as Denmark and Norway, Sweden and Iceland, as well as Finland, it is customary to call children by modern names, however more of these names originates 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 women's and men's 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, described his remarkable sides. But an interesting fact is that the name was not given to a person for life, but could change throughout life, even more than once. The reason for changing the name could be 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 female names, which reflect the warlike events of a 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 the strength and courage, bravery and courage revered at all times were embodied in the names of the girls. For example, Vigdis is the “goddess of war”, Goodhild is a “good battle”, Swanhild is a “battle of swans”, Brynhild is a “militant woman”.

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

How was the name given in the Scandinavian family in antiquity?

In naming, the peoples of Scandinavia had their own traditions, followed by everyone without exception.

Only the father gave the name to the girl and the boy. This was equated to the acquisition by the baby of the right to life, because the head of the family could accept or reject a new member. When naming a child, tribute was paid to glorious ancestors who were to be reborn in a new body when choosing a name for a 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. There were no special differences in antiquity between the male and female names. Girls were named after military events and battles, patrons of war and battles, peace and victories. popular in old days used the names of heroes sung in legends and epic works. The names of the goddesses and heroines of the legends were called girls.

IN modern world The choice is made in a different way. They now prefer beautiful Scandinavian female names, which are the embodiment of femininity, tenderness, are distinguished by the beauty of sound and grace, sing the best qualities and virtues of the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity. For example: Ingrid - "beautiful" and Inga - "the only one", Christina - "follower of Christ" and Letizia - "happy", Sonya - "wise" and Henrika - "housekeeper", Eidin - "slender" and Katarina - "clean" .

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. BC, is reflected in the names of the Scandinavian countries. German-Scandinavian mythology basically represented the worship of the forces of nature, so a number of names corresponded to the names of animals that were especially revered by the Vikings.

The female names of 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 luck: “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 the 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.

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

Absorbing 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 associated with health, it is customary to turn to the second name and actively use it instead of the first, believing that protective forces can change fate for the better.

Nicknames that became names

Initially, for the most part, ancient Scandinavian names, including female 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 displayed individual characteristics human: Raquel - "sheep", Tord Horsehead - female Thor.

Nicknames famous witches and sorcerers also reflect Scandinavian female names: Kolfinna - "dark, black Finn", Kolgrima - "black mask". Over time, the boundaries between the name and the nickname are erased and become indistinguishable.

viking heritage

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 the name is capable of shaking the universe and influencing the entire fate of its bearer. Naming the child, they believed that they were giving it under the protection of the gods and the forces of nature. Some of the names reflecting the rituals of priests and sorcerers have gone forever, and those praising the achievements of a warrior or hunter continue to exist to this day. And among these: Valborg - "saving those who die in battle", Bodil - "battle-vengeance", Borgilda - "fighting, useful maiden."

How did Christianity influence the name?

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

Christian names given to children at baptism remained secret. They used the second name, which was traditional and understandable for the Scandinavian people. A special rejection of new names was in the families of the military elite, where it was accepted Christian names name only illegitimate children. But gradually new ones joined the Scandinavian female names. They are actively used by modern parents who choose them for their daughters: Christina and Stina - "follower of Christ", Elizabeth - "God-confirmed", Evelina - "little Eve", Annelise - "gracious, useful, confirmed by God".

Adamina - red, earth.
Adeline, Adeline - noble, noble.
Agnetha - saint, chaste.
Alina is decent.
Anitra, Annie - useful, grace.
Asta, Astrid, Asya - divine beauty.
Aud - spiritualized.

Barbro is a stranger, a foreigner.
Birgit, Birgitta, Birte - sublime.
Brita is sublime.
Brunnhilde is a female warrior dressed in armor.
Wendla is a traveler.
Vigdis is the goddess of battles, war.
Victoria - a furore, a victory.
Wilma, Wilhelm - militant, protected by a helmet.
Vivien, Vivi - mobile, alive.
Gerda, Gerd - powerful, strong.
Gunnel, Gunhild, Gunhild - military battle.
Gunvor is a vigilant female warrior.
Dagney, Dagney - the birth of a new day.
Dorta, Dorte, Dorothea - God's gift.
Ida is diligent and hardworking.
Ilva is a wolf woman.
Inga is unique, one, only.
Ingeborg, Ingegerd - protected by Ing.
Ingrid is beautiful, incomparable.
Jorun, Jorunn - lover of horses.
Katrin, Katharina - innocent, pure.
Carolina is strong, courageous.
Kaya is the mistress, mistress.
Clara - immaculate, pure, dazzling.
Kristin, Kristina, Stina - a follower of the teachings of Christ.
Letizia - glowing with happiness.
Lisbeth - God confirmed.
Liv, Liva - giving life.
Maya is a mother-nurse.
Margareta, Margrit - precious pearl.
Marthe is a housekeeping lady.
Matilda, Matilda, Mektilda - strong in battle.
Ragnhilda - the battle of warriors-defenders.
Rune - dedicated to secret knowledge.
Sana, Susanna - lily flower.
Sarah is a noble lady, a charming princess.
Sigrid, Sigrun, Siri - a beautiful victory.
Simone is understanding.
Sonya, Ragna - wise, wise.
Swanhilda - the battle of the swans.
Tekla - Divine glorification.
Thora, Tyra is the warrior of Thor.
Torborg - taken under the protection of Thor.
Tord, Thordis is Thor's beloved.
Thorhild - the battle of Thor.
Tove - thundering.
Trin - immaculate, pure.
Turid is the beauty of God Thor.
Ulla, Ulrika - power and prosperity.
Frida is peaceful.
Hedwig - battle of rivals.
Helen, Elin - flame, torch.
Henrika is the housekeeper.
Hilda, Hilde - battle.
Hulda - guarding a secret, hidden.
Eidin - graceful, slender.
Elizabeth is confirmed by God.
Erica is the ruler.
Esther is a shining star.
Evelina, Evelyn - progenitor, little Eve.

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 passion for antiquities, paganism, sagas), as well as the stable release of films and computer games about the Vikings. No less interesting are the names of the Vikings. They are harmonious, not devoid of meaning and are great for pseudonyms and nicknames within a certain circle of people.

Who are the Vikings, where do they come from?

Vikings are usually called Scandinavian sailors (VIII - XI centuries). They became famous for their sea voyages, which stretched all the way to North Africa. The Vikings were ordinary inhabitants 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 referred to as Varangians, and Danish and Norwegian Vikings were nicknamed Normans, based on Latin sources. Most complete description these sailors, however, are given by the Scandinavian sagas, from which, for the most part, we learned the names of the Vikings, features from life and manners. In addition, the researchers learned much about the names from the inscriptions on the runic stones.

Noble stone, famous wolf, bear: the names of the Vikings

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

However, as mentioned above, the bulk of the names were drawn by researchers from inscriptions on runic stones, as well as Scandinavian sagas and legends. 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 - an eagle;
• Thorstein - Thor's stone;
• Leif is the heir.

Names containing constituent part the name of the god Thor: 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: female names of the Vikings

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

• Sigrid is a beautiful victory;
• Ingrid - beautiful;
• Ragnhild - adviser in battle;
• Gunnhild - battle of battles;
• Tuve - thunder;
• Helga - blessed;
• Siggy is the shield of victory.

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

• Randgrid - breaking shields;
• Hild is a warrior;
• Gel - calling;
• Mist - foggy;
• Company - sowing confusion.

The most energetic names, unusual for Slavic hearing, were and remain Scandinavian. The Scandinavians named their children based on their culture, beliefs and difficult living conditions. Today, female Scandinavian names in Russian sound more like nicknames. But some of them fit perfectly into our reality. A girl named with a Scandinavian name will definitely not go unnoticed.

The history of the origin of Scandinavian female names

Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden - these countries are located on the site of ancient Scandinavia - northern lands, cold, with harsh living conditions. The tribes of the ancient Germans inhabited these lands during the period early medieval- V - VII centuries AD. Accordingly, almost all the names here are of Germanic origin. The Germans developed their own culture, language, way of life, and all this left an imprint on the names that they gave to their children.

In the names of girls you can often find:

• mentions of totem animals that lived on the land of the Scandinavians - a wolf, a bear, a raven;
• the names of the pagan gods - Thor, As;
• significant events and phenomena - battle, protection, struggle, torch, mystery, god, strength;
• the characteristics of a newborn are beautiful, peaceful, strong, small.

Composing names from such “bricks” is the influence of paganism. According to him, the name given at birth will determine the fate and character of a person. For the first nine days after birth, the girl remained nameless. On the ninth night, her father took her in his arms, sprinkled her with water and called her name, determining the future character and destiny of her daughter.

Most of the girls' names can be translated literally. In their native language, they sounded typical, although today it seems to us that these are more like nicknames and nicknames.

The root “-hild” is often found in the names, it is translated as “battle”. "Gerd" - "protection", "helg" - "holiness", "ing" - "power", "trid" - "strength", "run" - "secret". That's how they were made Norwegian names one or two words. As a result, such sonorous names were obtained as Rungerda (protected by a secret), Inga (powerful), Gudrun (God's secret).

Danes, Swedes, Norwegians still use some of the names inherited from their ancestors today. Some of them have changed a little over time, as both the way of life and the language have changed. This is a natural process. But we can say for sure: the names have not lost their meanings and bright sound.

Scandinavian names are still vibrant and vibrant.

List of beautiful names for a girl

One of the foundations of paganism is the worship of ancestors, so the father looked for a name for a newborn daughter from the names of relatives. At the same time, he could change something and add a new property, which, according to legend, could protect the girl, give her special skills or define her character.

As a result, we got such names, beautiful, sonorous and energetic:

• Agnia - "edge of the sword";
• Adeline - "noble";
• Alina - "beautiful";
• Astrid - "Ace's strength";
• Victoria - "victory";
• Gerda - "protector";
• Dorothea - "gift of God";
• Inga - "powerful";
• Ingrid - "protection of the king";
• Katrin - "immaculate";
• Christina - "under the protection of Christ";
• Margareta, Margrit - "pearl";
• Matilda - "strength in battle";
• Helga - "holy";
• Sigrun - "the secret of victory";
• Frida - "peaceful";
• Helen - "torch";
• Hilda - "battle";
• Evelina - "hazelnut";
• Esther is a star.

Yes, battles, battles and the struggle for territory stretched like a red thread through the life of the Scandinavians, but there were romantics among these harsh peoples. There was a place among the wars and other, peaceful aspects of life.

Rare female names of Scandinavian origin

Ancient Scandinavian names can be found in chronicles and literary works of that era.

When reading the "Elder Edda" and other texts of the Viking Age, the eye stumbles endlessly over unusual combinations of letters:

• Brunhild - "battle of armor";
• Borghild - "assault on the fortress";
• Ragnfrid - "the power of peace";
• Solveig - "beam of the sun";
• Thorgerd - "protector of Thor";
• Hertrud (Gertrud) - "the power of the sword."

You may find these names familiar:

• Asta - "the beauty of Asa, prosperity";
• Birgitta - "sublime";
• Wilhelm - "under the protection of a helmet";
• Gudrun - "the secret of God";
• Gunhild - " military battle»;
• Ingeborg - "under the protection of Ing";
• Ingrid - "protection of the king";
• Sigrun - "the secret of victory";
• Thordis - "Woman of Thor".

All of these Scandinavian female names were once very popular among Germanic speakers. Some have been transformed into a Russian sound, and at first it's hard to imagine that they have Scandinavian roots.

Modern and popular names and their meaning

• One of the names that is still used today is Inga. Short, sonorous and energetic, it translates as "powerful". Indeed, a girl with that name achieves certain heights both in her career and in her family. A softer version of the name - Inna, also has Scandinavian roots, and today it is gaining popularity again.
• Another name that has come down to us almost in its original form is Margarita. The Scandinavian version is Margrit. The meaning of the name is "pearl". It is common both here and in modern Denmark and Sweden. Margaritas feel the influence of Scandinavian ancestors: they are distinguished by their firmness of character, stubbornness and some closeness.
• The name Victoria is "victory", not just a popular Scandinavian name for a girl. It literally holds the first lines in the ranking of the most popular names for several years. By answering the question of her name, Victoria will not cause surprised looks from the older generation. But through all his life he will carry fortitude, purposefulness and desire for a home. In abbreviated form, this name in the homeland sounds like Vicky, and in Russia - Vika, Tori.
• Another popular name for a girl is Alina (“beautiful”), it is actively used both in Slavic families and in Muslim ones. It is universal in pronunciation.
• We fell in love with the name Evelina (“hazelnut”) for its unusually gentle sound for Scandinavian names. Eva or Lina is a girl with a difficult character, which, perhaps, will prevent her from building family relationships, but will give real success in business. Evelina enjoys her natural charm, which gives her a Scandinavian name.
• Increasingly, you can meet girls with the name Dorothea - "given by God." It is thanks to such a sacred meaning and gentle sound that this Scandinavian name becomes popular. The names of girls with such a translation are found in almost all cultures, including the culture of the ancient Germans.
• The name Ingrid, "protection of the king", gives its owner the will and perseverance in achieving goals. In everyday life, Ingrid is often shortened to Inna, Innusi, softening the call of the Scandinavian ancestors and giving Ingrid softness and calmness.
• Karina is possibly a derived name from the Old Germanic Kara ("curly").
• Erika means "strong". A beautiful name for a girl - Erna, means "skillful." Modern parents can safely choose these names when deciding what to name their daughter.

Despite the fact that the Scandinavian tribes eventually mixed with other nationalities and adopted a lot from the culture of Christians and Muslims, you can still meet women named according to ancient rules in their homeland.

Suffice it to recall, for example, modern Swedish actresses and models Ingrid Bergman, Greta Garbo, Britt Ekland, Elsa Host, Suzanne Anden, Sigrid Agren and others. IN last century they attracted the attention of millions with their luxury and beauty.

Ancient and forgotten names

The Scandinavian tribes left us a legacy of not so many names that can easily be called a daughter. Still, the language of the ancient Germans seems too energetic to the Slavic ear. The names Ragnfrid, Thordis, Brunhild, Gudgerd, and the like, are rarely used even at home.

Perhaps only in Iceland you can meet beauties with the names of Branja, Berglind, Edda, Unnur, Asdis and others. The fact is that in this country they especially honor their culture, which grew out of the heritage of the Vikings. Icelanders are not afraid of complex pronunciations and a confusing procedure for choosing a name for a newborn.

There is a list of names approved by the state committee, and children can only be named in accordance with this list.

There are practically no assumptions in the form of Christian and Muslim names in it, only the real heritage of the ancestors.

It remains for us not to forget that the names Olga, Elena and Ekaterina are the Scandinavian Helga, Helen and Katrin. We adopted many familiar and familiar names from these strong and harsh tribes.