Swedish names represent a culture known for its awe-inspiring mountain ranges, forward-thinking society, and dynamic arts scene. A Swedish name connects people to the qualities of Sweden and is perfect for those who resonate with Swedish culture. In this guide, you’ll find hand-picked lists of Swedish baby names and common Swedish names and meanings.
Swedish Names and Meanings
Swedish names have linguistic ties to other Nordic names due to shared roots in Old Norse words, but they have distinctly Swedish themes and qualities. A unique quality of Swedish names is how they are limited regarding creativity. Laws in Sweden require parents to gain approval within 3 months of birth from a government agency before they can legally name their child. This was done to prevent potential offense, harm, or discomfort to the child caused by bizarre names.
Swedish is a language from Old Norse and shares many linguistic characteristics with Norwegian and Danish. Many Swedish names retain Norse and Viking influences and later introductions of Christian themes. Popular names include several of these influences. For example, Mikael comes from a Biblical name meaning ‘who is like God?’, and Erik is a Nordic name meaning ‘ever-ruler.’ Old Norse and Christian mythos live on in Swedish names. We have curated lists of Swedish names and their meanings to help introduce this fascinating part of Swedish culture, including common Swedish names and thematic baby name lists.
Top 100 Swedish Names
Here, we present a comprehensive list of common Swedish names and their meanings. Swedish names have historical or cultural significance from Norse mythology or cultural traditions.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Anna – Grace, Favor | Lars – Laurel |
| Eva – Life | Mikael – Who is like God? |
| Maria – Bitter, beloved | Anders – Manly, brave |
| Karin – Pure | Johan – God is gracious |
| Sara – Princess, Noblewoman | Erik – Eternal ruler |
| Christina – Christian, anointed | Per – Rock |
| Lena – Light, shining | Peter – Rock, stone |
| Emma – Universal, Whole | Thomas – Twin, twin brother |
| Kerstin – Christian, anointed | Karl – Man, Free man |
| Marie – Bitter, beloved | Jan – God is gracious |
| Malin – High tower or woman of Magdala | Daniel – God is my judge |
| Jenny – Fair one | Fredrik – Peaceful ruler |
| Ingrid – Beautiful, fair | Andreas – Manly, brave |
| Hanna – Grace | Stefan – Crown, Garland |
| Linda – Soft, Tender | Hans – God is gracious |
| Annika – Grace | Mats – Gift of God |
| Susanne – Lily | Marcus – Warlike, Roman god of war |
| Elin – Torch, Shining light | Mattias – Gift of God |
| Monica – Advisor | Magnus – Great |
| Birgitta – The exalted one | Oscar – God’s spear, deer lover |
| Sofia – Wisdom, knowledge | Jonas – Dove, gift from God |
| Johanna – God is gracious | Alexander – Defender of the people |
| Inger – Ing’s warrior (Norse deity) | Niklas – Victory of the people |
| Carina – Beloved, dear little one | Martin – Warlike |
| Julia – Youthful, downy | Bengt – Blessed |
| Elisabeth – God is my oath | Bo – To live |
| Ulla – Prosperity, fortune | Nils – Champion |
| Linnéa – After the flower, Linnaea | Viktor – Conqueror |
| Katarina – Pure | Patrik – Nobleman |
| Emelie – Rival, eager | Björn – Bear |
| Ida – Hardworking, laborious | David – Beloved, friend |
| Helena – Torch, Shining light | Filip – Lover of horses |
| Camilla – Perfect, Complete | Henrik – Home ruler |
| Åsa – God | Leif – Descendant, Heir |
| Anette – Grace | Joakim – Raised by God |
| Sandra – Defender of man | Emil – Rival, Emulating |
| Maja – Mother, Nurse | Christer – Christian, anointed |
| Gunilla – Battle-maid | Ulf – Wolf |
| Ann – Grace, favor | Simon – Listening, hearing |
| Anita – Grace | Sven – Young man |
| Amanda – Worthy of love, to be loved | Christoffer – Christ-bearer |
| Marianne – Star of the sea and grace | Anton – Priceless, Invaluable |
| Anneli – Grace | William – Strong-willed warrior |
| Margareta – Pearl | Christian – Follower of Christ |
| Therese – Summer, harvester | Robert – Bright fame, fame-bright |
| Josefin – God will increase | Gustav – Staff of the gods |
| Cecilia – Blind, unseeing | Lucas – From Lucania (light) |
| Jessica – God beholds, God’s grace | Tommy – Twin, twin brother |
| Helen – Bright, shining | Kjell – Kettle, cauldron |
| Lisa – God’s promise | Rickard – Brave ruler |
| Alice – Noble, of noble kind | Håkan – High son |
| Matilda – Mighty in battle, strength in battle | Adam – Man, Earth |
| Caroline – Free woman, joyful song | Göran – Farmer |
| Frida – Peaceful, serene | Jacob – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Elsa – God is my oath | Jonathan – Gift of God, God has given |
| Ulrika – Wealthy, powerful | Elias – Yahweh is God, the Lord is my God |
| Barbro – Foreign, strange | Sebastian – Venerable, revered |
| Siv – Bride | Robin – Fame, bright fame |
| Klara – Clear, Bright | Lennart – Lion strength |
| Ebba – Strength of an animal | Rolf – Famous wolf |
| Rebecca – To bind, to tie | Tobias – God is good, Yahweh is good |
| Madeleine – From Magdala, tower | John – God is gracious, Yahweh is gracious |
| Sofie – Wisdom | Axel – Father of peace |
| Isabelle – God is my oath, pledged to God | Oliver – Olive tree, peaceful |
| Wilma – Resolute protection | Linus – Flax |
| Agneta – Pure, holy | Stig – Path |
| Lina – Tender | Hugo – Mind, intellect |
| Ella – Beautiful, fairy maiden | Kent – High, border |
| Gun – Battle, war | Isak – He will laugh |
| Pia – Pious | Roger – Famous spear |
| Berit – Splendid, glorious | Claes – Victory of the people |
| Ellen – Torch, shining light | Jesper – God beholds |
| Olivia – Olive tree, olive branch | Albin – White, fair |
| Astrid – Divine strength, beautiful | Ludvig – Famous warrior |
| Louise – Renowned warrior | Rasmus – Beloved |
| Yvonne – Yew wood | Jörgen – Farmer |
| Moa – Mother | Ali – Noble, exalted |
| Agnes – Pure, Holy | Max – Greatest |
| Alva – Elf | Jimmy – Supplanter |
| Emilia – Rival, striving | Joel – The Lord is God |
| Nathalie – Christmas child | Kenneth – Handsome |
| Alexandra – Defender of man | Josef – God will increase |
| Mona – Noble, aristocratic | Dennis – Wild, frenzied |
| Victoria – Victory, conqueror | Liam – Resolute protector |
| Erika – Ever powerful | Gunnar – Warrior, Fighter |
| Britt – Strength, exalted one | Olle – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Felicia – Fortunate, lucky | Leo – Lion |
| Lovisa – Renowned warrior | Johnny – God is gracious |
| Pernilla – Rock | Olof – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Sonja – Wisdom | Pontus – Sea |
| Charlotte – Free man, petite | Åke – Ancestor |
| Linn – A waterfall, pool | Kevin – Handsome, kind |
| Nina – Little girl | Samuel – God has heard, heard by God |
| Saga – Story, Tale | Gabriel – God is my strength, hero of God |
| Alma – Nourishing, kind | Arvid – Eagle tree |
| Karolina – Free man | Edvin – Rich friend |
| Mikaela – Who is like God? | Felix – Happy, fortunate |
| Kristina – Christian, anointed | Kurt – Courteous, polite |
| Viktoria – Victory | Torbjörn – Thor’s bear |
| Charlotta – Free man | Oskar – God’s spear, Gentle friend |
Unique Swedish Names
Sweden has banned bizarre names, but we gathered a list of the most unique Swedish names. Choosing a distinctive name is a way for parents to ensure individuality and a strong connection to Swedish heritage for their children.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Alba – Dawn, white | Ajax – Eagle |
| Alicia – Noble, exalted | Alfred – Elf counsel, wise counselor |
| Ayla – Moonlight, halo | Alvar – Elf warrior |
| Clara – Clear, Bright | Alve – Elf |
| Cleo – Glory, fame | Alvin – Friend of elves |
| Cornelia – Horn | Arne – Eagle |
| Elina – Torch, shining light | Aron – High mountain, Exalted |
| Elise – God is my oath, pledged to God | August – Great, noble |
| Ellinor – Shining light | Bertil – Bright raven |
| Elsie – Noble, God’s promise | Carl – Man, Free man |
| Elvira – All true | Casper – Treasurer |
| Filippa – Lover of horses | Dolf – Noble or majestic wolf |
| Freja – Lady, noblewoman | Dolph – Noble or majestic wolf |
| Greta – Pearl | Ebbe – Wild boar |
| Hailey – Hay meadow, ingenious | Elis – The lord is my God |
| Hedda – Battle, strife | Elliot – Yahweh is God, the Lord is my God |
| Hedvig – Fighting a battle | Elton – Ella’s town, noble town |
| Hilda – Battle, war | Elvin – Elf friend |
| Hilma – Will, helmet | Folke – People |
| Idun – Rejuvenating, to love | Frans – Free man |
| Ilse – God’s promise | Georg – Farmer |
| Ines – Chaste, pure | Gösta – Saff of the Goths |
| Inga – Feminine form of the god Ing | Hjalmar – Helmeted warrior |
| Ingegerd – Ing’s enclosure | Ingemar – Famous son |
| Iris – Rainbow, messenger | Ingvar – Warrior of Ing, Guarded by Ing |
| Janica – God has been gracious | Ivar – Bow warrior |
| Joline – God will add | Jakob – Supplanter |
| Julie – Youthful, downy | Johannes – God is gracious |
| Juni – Month of June | Kian – Ancient, archaic |
| Kristin – Christian | Leon – Lion |
| Leah – Weary, delicate | Lias – Yahweh is God |
| Leia – Weary | Loke – Trickster god |
| Lilly – Lily flower, innocence | Loui – Famous warrior |
| Livia – Envious | Love – Famous warrior |
| Lova – Promise | Malte – Helm, council |
| Lovis – Famous warrior | Matteo – Gift of God |
| Luna – Moon, lunar | Maximilian – Greatest, greatest rival |
| Lykke – Happiness, good fortune | Melker – King |
| Maj – May | Milian – Dear, beloved |
| Majken – Pearl | Milo – Gracious, merciful |
| Mariam – Beloved, sea of bitterness | Milton – Mill town, settlement with a mill |
| Märta – Lady, mistress | Mio – Beautiful, cherry |
| Maryam – Beloved, sea of bitterness | Neo – New, recent |
| Meja – Table | Nicolas – Victory of the people |
| Melina – Honey, honey-colored | Noel – Christmas, born on Christmas |
| Mila – Gracious, dear | Otis – Wealthy, riches |
| Millie – Gentle strength, strength in work | Otto – Wealth, prosperity |
| Mira – Wonderful, admirable | Ove – Edge of a sword |
| Molly – Bitter, wished for child | Roland – Famous throughout the land |
| Nellie – Shining light | Rune – Secret |
| Noomi – Pleasantness | Sigge – Victory |
| Nora – Light, honor | Sixten – Stone path |
| Nova – New, new star | Stig – Wanderer |
| Novalie – New valley | Svante – Swede |
| Ronja – Joyful song | Tage – Day |
| Signe – New victory | Theodor – Gift of God |
| Sigrid – Beautiful victory | Thor – God of thunder in Norse mythology |
| Stella – Star, star-like | Ture – Thor, god |
| Stina – Christian, anointed | Vale – Lives in the valley |
| Svea – Spear, strength | Valter – Ruler of the army |
| Thea – Goddess, gods | Vidar – Warrior, Forest |
| Tilda – Strength in battle | Vide – Willow |
| Tilde – A variation of Tilda | Viggo – War |
| Tindra – Twinkle | Vilgot – Helmet, protection |
| Trude – Strength | Ville – Willing to protect |
| Tuva – Beautiful Thor | Walter – Ruler of the army |
| Tyra – God of battle, Thor | Wilhelm – Willing to protect |
| Yrsa – Little she-bear | Wilmer – Famous, desire |
| Wilda – Wild | Wulf – Wolf |
Cute Swedish Names
We searched through records to find the cutest Swedish names. Many of these names have diminutive forms or are derived from terms of affection or nature, emphasizing their charm.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Aila – From the strong place | Akseli – Father of peace |
| Aili – Noble, kind | Aleksi – Defender, helper |
| Aliina – Shining light | Alf – Elf |
| Alina – Noble, light | Anker – Anchor |
| Alli – Noble, kind | Arttu – Bear, stone |
| Amelia – Industrious, striving | Benny – Blessed, lucky |
| Angelica – Angel, messenger of God | Börje – Mountain |
| Annie – Gracious, merciful | Bror – Brother |
| Anniina – Grace | Eddie – Wealthy guardian, wealthy protector |
| Beatrice – Blessed, bringer of joy | Eelis – Yahweh is my God |
| Bella – Beautiful, lovely | Eemeli – Rival |
| Belle – Beautiful | Eero – Eternal ruler |
| Beth – God is my oath | Eetu – Wealth, fortune |
| Bianca – White, shining | Einar – One warrior, Lone warrior |
| Birgit – Strength | Einari – Lone warrior |
| Bonnie – Beautiful, cheerful | Eino – Alone |
| Britta – Strength, exalted one | Eirik – Forever strong |
| Carola – Free man | Eriksson – Son of Erik |
| Daniela – God is my judge | Evert – Strong as a boar |
| Edit – Wealth, fortune | Finn – Fair, white |
| Eira – Snow | Hampus – God is gracious |
| Elia – The Lord is my God | Harald – Army ruler |
| Eliina – Shining light | Harry – Ruler of the home, home ruler |
| Eliisa – God’s promise | Hjalmer – Helmeted warrior |
| Elisabet – God is my oath | Iisakki – He will laugh |
| Ellie – Light, bright | Ilari – Cheerful, happy |
| Ellika – Noble | Jalmari – Helmeted warrior |
| Elma – Apple | Jerry – Spear ruler |
| Emmi – Universal, whole | Jesse – Gift, wealthy |
| Emmy – Universal, entire | Jonatan – God has given |
| Ester – Star | Joni – God is gracious |
| Esteri – Star | Joona – Dove |
| Eveliina – Desired, water, island | Joonas – Dove |
| Hanne – God is gracious | Juuso – God is gracious |
| Henny – Home ruler | Kai – Keeper of the keys, earth |
| Iben – God’s promise | Kaj – Pure |
| Iida – Industrious, work | Kalle – Free man |
| Inez – Chaste, pure | Kasper – Bringer of treasure |
| Ingeborg – Ing’s protection | Kim – Noble, brave as a leader |
| Irene – Peace, peaceful | Klaus – Victory of the people |
| Isabella – God is my oath, pledged to God | Kristian – Follower of Christ |
| Jasmine – Jasmine flower, fragrant flower | Kristoffer – Christ-bearer |
| Jenna – Fair, white | Lasse – Laurel |
| Jennie – Fair, smooth | Leevi – Joined, attached |
| Jette – Home ruler | Leonard – Brave lion |
| Kajsa – Pure | Louie – Famous warrior, renowned warrior |
| Kati – Pure | Mårten – Warlike |
| Laura – Laurel, bay tree | Matias – Gift of God |
| Leona – Lioness, lion-like | Mika – Who is like God? |
| Lily – Lily flower, pure | Mikko – Who is like God? |
| Liv – Life, protection | Morgan – Sea defender, bright sea |
| Liva – Life | Niilo – Victory of the people |
| Lo – Lynx | Niko – Victory of the people |
| Lotta – Free man | Noah – Rest, comfort |
| Lotte – Free man | Ole – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Maija – Bitter or beloved | Olli – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Maren – Sea | Onni – Happiness, luck |
| Martina – Warlike | Ossi – God’s power |
| Mathilda – Mighty in battle | Ottar – Fear, Dread |
| Mathilde – Mighty in battle | Palle – Rock |
| Mia – Mine, bitter | Pär – Rock |
| Mille – Graceful | Rayan – Watered, abundant |
| My – Beautiful | Ronny – Diminutive of Ronald or Ronan |
| Nanna – Norse goddess of joy and peace | Sami – Elevated, high |
| Noora – Light | Samuli – God has heard |
| Penny – Weaver | Simo – Listener |
| Petra – Rock, stone | Sune – Son |
| Rebecka – To tie, to bind | Ted – Gift of God |
| Sabina – Sabine woman | Teodor – Gift of God |
| Sally – Princess | Theo – God’s gift, divine gift |
| Selma – Helmet of God, Safe | Timmy – Honouring God |
| Siiri – Victory, beautiful, fair | Timo – Honoring God |
| Sylvi – Forest, woods | Tomas – Twin |
| Taimi – Young tree, sapling | Tomi – Twin |
| Tove – God’s goodness | Tommi – Twin |
| Tuula – Wind | Torben – Thunder bear |
| Vera – True, faithful | Tuomas – Twin |
| Viola – Violet (flower) | Urban – City dweller |
| Viveka – Alive | Uuno – Fool |
| Zoe – Life, alive | Vilho – Helmet, protection |
| Zoey – Life | Viljami – Helmet, protection |
Cool Swedish Names
Cool Swedish names have a modern flair while still retaining a touch of traditional Scandinavian essence. This list of Swedish names is cooler than the winters and snowfalls of Sweden.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Aino – The only one | Aaro – Exalted, mountain |
| Airi – Love, affection | Aimo – Generous amount |
| Anni – Grace | Aksel – Father of peace |
| Annikki – Grace | André – Manly, brave |
| Arja – Bringer of productivity | Antti – Invaluable |
| Brit – Strength | Arto – Stone, rock |
| Carita – Little and womanly | Artur – Bear or stone |
| Christel – Follower of Christ | Asger – Spear of God |
| Ditte – Rich in war | Atlas – Enduring |
| Dorte – Gift of God | Atle – Little father |
| Dorthe – Gift of God | Birger – To save, to rescue |
| Eeva – Living | Bjarne – Bear |
| Eila – Whirling, bird | Bosse – God’s peace |
| Eivor – Gift, luck | Conny – Brave, hardy |
| Eli – Ascending | Edvard – Wealthy guardian |
| Elli – Light | Esa – God is salvation |
| Elvi – Elf, supernatural being | Esko – God-bearer |
| Elviira – Truth | Espen – God bear |
| Ewa – Living | Flemming – From Flanders |
| Gitte – Strong | Frode – Wise, learned |
| Gudrun – God’s secret lore | Hannes – God is gracious |
| Gunborg – War, protection | Hardy – Bold, brave |
| Gunhild – Battle, war | Harri – Ruler, home ruler |
| Gunn – Battle, war | Håvard – High guardian |
| Gunnel – Battle-maid | Heikki – Home ruler |
| Gunvor – Cautious in war | Henrikki – Home ruler |
| Hege – Safe, protected | Jaakko – Supplanter |
| Helga – Holy, Sacred | Jani – God is gracious |
| Heli – Sun ray | Jari – Helmeted warrior |
| Helle – Holy | Jarkko – Ever ruling, alone |
| Helmi – Pearl | Jarle – Nobleman |
| Helvi – Safe, hale | Jens – God is gracious |
| Henna – Home ruler | Jonny – God is gracious |
| Hilde – Battle, warfare | Jouni – God is gracious |
| Hilja – Silent, calm | Juha – God is gracious |
| Ina – Pure, innocent | Jukka – God is gracious |
| Inge – God Ing’s protection | Kari – Curly or wavy |
| Jaana – God is gracious | Kjetil – Kettle, helmet |
| Jenni – Fair, smooth | Klas – Victory of the people |
| Jytte – Home ruler | Knut – Knot |
| Kaija – Rejoice | Krister – Christian, anointed |
| Kaisa – Pure | Mads – Gift of God |
| Kaja – Pure | Magne – Strong, warrior |
| Kamilla – Perfect, Complete | Måns – Man |
| Kari – Pure | Mathias – Gift of God |
| Karla – Free man | Matts – Gift of God |
| Karoliina – Free woman | Mauri – Dark-skinned |
| Karoline – Free man | Mogens – Great, strength |
| Katri – Pure | Morten – From the god Mars |
| Kirsi – Frost, or Christian | Nicklas – Victory of the people |
| Lise – God is my oath | Niclas – Victory of the people |
| Lone – Ready for battle | Odd – Tip of the blade |
| Maiken – Pearl | Ola – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Maire – Bitter, wished-for child | Olav – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Mari – Bitter, rebellious | Pauli – Little, humble |
| Marit – Pearl | Ragnar – Judgment, Ruler’s advice |
| Marita – Bitter or sea of bitterness | Raimo – Protecting hands |
| Marjo – Berry | Rauno – Counsel |
| Marte – Lady, mistress | Rikard – Brave ruler |
| Maya – Illusion, enchantment | Risto – Follower of Christ |
| Mette – Pearl | Roar – Famous spear |
| Milla – Industrious | Seppo – Smith, craftsman |
| Oda – Wealth, fortune | Sigve – Victory, protection |
| Päivi – Day | Stein – Stone |
| Pirkko – Strong, firm | Sten – Stone |
| Raija – Easy, soft | Storm – Storm |
| Renate – Reborn | Svein – Youth |
| Riikka – Peaceful ruler | Svend – Boy, Lad |
| Rikke – Brave ruler | Taisto – Battle |
| Saara – Princess | Tarmo – Energy, drive |
| Saimi – Pond beauty | Teemu – Valiant |
| Sanne – Truth | Tero – Man |
| Sanni – Lily | Toivo – Hope |
| Sassa – Diminutive of Astrid, Divine beauty | Tor – Thunder god |
| Seija – Serene, quiet | Tord – Thor’s god |
| Silje – Blind | Tore – Thunder |
| Sisko – Sister | Torsten – Thor’s stone |
| Sissel – Blind | Trygve – Trustworthy |
| Solveig – Sun strength, Sun and strength | Ulrik – Wealthy, powerful |
| Stine – Christian, anointed | Väinö – Stream |
| Tarja – Kingly, possess well | Vegard – Protection, guard |
| Tellervo – Daughter of the earth | Veikko – Brother |
| Tone – New | Veli – Brother |
| Torill – Thor’s battle | Vesa – Young tree |
Pretty Swedish Names
Pretty Swedish names have an elegance and melodious quality that captivates those who hear them. These names are inspired by nature, literature, or traditional Swedish elements and evoke picturesque landscapes or romantic tales.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Alisa – Of the nobility | Aarne – Eagle |
| Amalia – Industrious, hardworking | Aarre – Treasure |
| Amalie – Hardworking, industrious | Ahti – Mythological sea god |
| Amina – Trustworthy, faithful | Aleks – Defender, helper |
| Ana – Gracious | Aleksander – Defender of man |
| Andrea – Manly | Aleksanteri – Defender, helper |
| Anja – Grace | Ariel – Lion of God |
| Ann-Christin – Grace and follower of Christ | Armas – Dear |
| Annelie – Grace and God is my oath | Arthur – Bear, noble one |
| Annica – Grace | Asser – God’s tree |
| Asta – Love, Affection | Boris – Wolf, snow leopard |
| Aurora – Dawn | Carsten – Christian, anointed |
| Betina – God is my oath | Claus – Victory of the people |
| Bettina – God is my oath | Dag – Day |
| Brita – Strength, exalted one | Darin – Precious present |
| Carin – Pure | Devin – Poet, bard |
| Carolina – Free man, song of happiness | Eemil – Rival |
| Catarina – Pure | Eerik – Ever ruler |
| Christine – Christian | Eivind – Gift, blessing |
| Elena – Bright, shining | Emanuel – God with us |
| Elisa – God is my oath | Ensio – First |
| Elizabeth – Pledged to God | Eric – Ever-ruler |
| Emily – Rival, industrious | Ernst – Serious, resolute |
| Erica – Ever powerful | Eskil – Divine cauldron |
| Evelina – Desired | Even – God is gracious |
| Gabriella – God is my strength, heroine of God | Frederik – Peaceful ruler |
| Grete – Pearl | Geir – Spear |
| Harriet – Ruler of the home, estate ruler | Gustaf – Staff of the gods |
| Heidi – Noble, of noble birth | Håkon – High son |
| Helene – Torch, Shining light | Herman – Army man |
| Helinä – Clatter, rattle | Ilias – Yahweh is my God |
| Henriette – Ruler of the home | Ivan – God is gracious |
| Ilona – Joyful, light | Jack – God is gracious, supplanter |
| Irina – Peace | Janne – God is gracious |
| Isabel – God is my oath, pledged to God | Jeppe – God will add another son |
| Isabell – Pledged to God | Johny – God is gracious |
| Jannie – God is gracious | Jozef – God will increase |
| Jasmin – Jasmine flower | Julian – Youthful, downy |
| Jeanette – God is gracious | Julius – Youthful, downy-bearded |
| Johanne – God is gracious | Kåre – Curly, curly-haired |
| Jonna – God is gracious | Karlo – Free man |
| Josefina – God will increase | Karsten – Christian, anointed |
| Josefine – He will add | Kauko – Distant |
| Kaarina – Pure | Kimmo – Brave |
| Karina – Pure | Lauri – Laurel |
| Katariina – Pure | Lukas – Man from Lucania |
| Kathrine – Pure | Malthe – Council, meeting |
| Katja – Pure | Marco – Warlike |
| Katriina – Pure | Marius – From the Roman clan name Marii |
| Katrine – Pure | Marko – Warlike |
| Kirsten – Christian | Markus – Warlike |
| Kirsti – Christian | Maxim – Greatest, most excellent |
| Kristine – Christian, anointed | Mikal – Who is like God? |
| Laila – Night | Mikkel – Who is like God? |
| Laina – Path, route | Moses – Taken out, drawn out |
| Leila – Night, dark beauty | Nicolai – Victory of the people |
| Lilja – Lily | Niels – Champion |
| Lisbet – God is my oath | Nikolai – Victory of the people |
| Liselotte – God is my oath and Free man | Nikolaj – Victory of the people |
| Madelene – From Magdala | Olov – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Magdalena – Woman from Magdala | Oskari – God’s spear |
| Marika – Bitter, rebellious | Paavo – Small |
| Marina – From the sea, of the sea | Pavel – Small |
| Marja – Berry | Peder – Rock |
| Martha – Lady, Mistress | Petter – Rock |
| Martine – Warlike, Mars the Roman god of war | Raine – King |
| Maud – Mighty in battle | Rainer – Wise army |
| Melissa – Honeybee | Rufus – Red-haired |
| Natalia – Born on Christmas Day | Sakari – God remembers |
| Olga – Holy, blessed | Sander – Defender of man |
| Regina – Queen, ruler | Santeri – Defender, helper |
| Rosa – Rose | Sigurd – Victory guardian |
| Ruth – Companion, friend | Simen – Listening intently |
| Sanna – Truth | Sindre – Sparkling, glowing |
| Sarah – Princess, noblewoman | Sverre – Wild, spinning |
| Sari – Princess | Taavi – Beloved |
| Simone – Hearing, one who listens | Tapani – Crown |
| Sophia – Wisdom, knowledge | Tapio – God of the forest |
| Sophie – Wisdom, skill | Tarek – Morning star |
| Susanna – Lily, graceful lily | Tarik – Morning star |
| Suvi – Summer | Terje – Thor’s spear |
| Veronica – True image | Valdemar – Famous ruler |
| Vivi – Alive, lively | Valtteri – Power, rule |
| Zahra – Bright, shining | Vilhelm – Willing to protect |
Rare Swedish Names
Rare Swedish names often emerge from ancient texts, obscure regional dialects, or are a fusion of traditional names with a modern twist. Historical and contemporary documents were thoroughly searched to fill our list of rare Swedish names.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Aase – A tree, ash tree | Alpo – Noble, bright |
| Alberte – Bright, noble | Antero – Manly, brave |
| Ane – Grace | Arild – Battle commander |
| Anu – Grace | Arvi – Eagle tree |
| Åse – Goddess | Arvo – Value, worth |
| Aud – Wealth, prosperity | Aulis – Helpful |
| Aulikki – Rich, powerful | Bent – Blessed |
| Aune – Holy, sanctified | Bernt – Strong as a bear |
| Beate – She who brings happiness | Calle – Free man |
| Bente – Blessed | Danni – God is my judge |
| Birgitte – Strength | Egil – Edge of a sword |
| Birte – Strength | Egon – Edge of a sword |
| Birthe – Bright, famous | Eldar – Fire |
| Bodil – Battle remedy | Emrik – Universal ruler |
| Catharina – Pure | Erkki – Ever ruler |
| Cathrine – Pure | Erlend – Foreigner, stranger |
| Dagmar – Day and Maiden | Erling – Descendant, heir |
| Eija – Rest, peace | Esben – Bear god |
| Elna – Torch, Shining light | Franz – Free man |
| Else – God is my oath | Gert – Strong spear |
| Erna – Capable, Serious | Göte – Relating to the Geats, Goths |
| Evy – Life | Hannu – God is gracious |
| Gerd – Enclosure, stronghold | Hasse – God’s grace |
| Gerda – Protected, stronghold | Henning – Home ruler |
| Grethe – Pearl | Henok – Dedicated, devoted |
| Gro – To grow | Holger – Spear island |
| Gry – Dawn | Ilkka – Air |
| Hannele – God’s grace | Ilmari – Air |
| Hellevi – Healthy battle | Inge – Ancestor |
| Hilkka – Battle, war | Janek – God is gracious |
| Hillevi – Healthy battle maiden | Janis – God is gracious |
| Ingegärd – Ing’s enclosure (Norse god) | Jarmo – Helmeted warrior |
| Ingela – Ing’s protection | Jorma – Farmer |
| Ingunn – Related to the Norse god Ing | Jostein – Horse stone |
| Ingvild – Ing’s warrior | Jouko – Warrior |
| Inkeri – Hero’s daughter | Juhani – God is gracious |
| Irja – Peace | Jyrki – Earth worker |
| Irma – Universal, whole | Kaarlo – Free man |
| Janne – God is gracious | Kalervo – Hero |
| Kjersti – Christian, anointed | Kalevi – Hero |
| Kristiina – Christian, anointed | Keijo – Rejoice |
| Kyllikki – Abundance | Kjeld – Kettle, cauldron |
| Leena – Light | Knud – Knot |
| Lempi – Love | Kustaa – Staff of the Goths |
| Lene – Torch | Ludwig – Famous warrior |
| Liisa – My God is an oath | Markku – Warlike |
| Lisbeth – God is my oath | Martti – Warlike |
| Margit – Pearl | Matti – Gift of God |
| Margrethe – Pearl | Mauno – Protector |
| Maritta – Pearl | Michal – Who is like God? |
| Marketta – Warlike | Milas – Gracious, dear |
| Marthe – Lady, mistress | Mirko – Peace, world |
| Martta – Lady, mistress | Olavi – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Merete – Pearl | Osmo – A branch, twig |
| Merja – Sea | Pål – Little, humble |
| Mervi – Marjoram, sea of bitterness | Pawel – Small, Humble |
| Mie – Rebellion | Pekka – Rock |
| Miia – Beloved | Pentti – Rock |
| Mina – Love, mine | Pertti – Famous, bright |
| Minna – Love, will, desire | Petar – Rock |
| Mirja – Bitter or sea of bitterness | Poul – Small, humble |
| Orvokki – Violet | Preben – First battle |
| Pernille – Rock | Reidar – Warrior at home |
| Pirjo – Glittering, sparkling | Reijo – Watchful, vigilant |
| Ragnhild – Strong army | Reino – Counsel ruler |
| Raili – Easy, soft | René – Reborn |
| Rauha – Peace | Sondre – The south |
| Reidun – Nest, home | Sören – Strict, stern |
| Riitta – Exalted one | Staffan – Crown |
| Ritva – Branch, twig | Steen – Stone |
| Rut – Friend, companion | Steffen – Crown, garland |
| Satu – Fairytale | Steinar – Stone warrior |
| Silja – Blind | Stian – Wanderer |
| Sinikka – Blue | Teuvo – Gift from God |
| Sirkka – Cricket | Tuomo – Twin |
| Sirpa – Fragment, piece | Unto – Wave |
| Tine – Follower of Christ | Uolevi – Ancestor’s descendant |
| Toini – Priceless | Urho – Hero |
| Tuija – Cedar | Veijo – Brother |
| Vilhelmiina – Will-helmet, protection | Verner – Defending army |
| Vilma – Will, desire; helmet, protection | Viljo – Will, desire |
| Ylva – She-wolf | Yngve – Ingenious, forefather |
More Lists:
Names of Famous Swedish Men and Women
Ingrid Bergman is considered one of history’s most iconic and talented actresses. Born in Sweden in 1915, she became iconic for her significant roles in European and American films. Over her career, she earned awards, including four Golden Globes. Ingrid comes from an Old Norse word for ‘beautiful.’
Björn Borg is a retired tennis player. He was a world number 1 tennis player and won major competitions, including four French Open and Grand Slam Single titles at Wimbledon. Björn is a Swedish name that means ‘bear.’
Astrid Lindgren was an author who wrote fictional novels and screenplays. She was born in Sweden in 1907 and worked as a journalist before transitioning into writing fiction. One of her most popular creations is the character Pippi Longstocking. Astrid is of Old Norse origin and means ‘beautiful.’
Greta Thunberg has significantly impacted her world by advocating for environmental conservation and protection. She works to engage youths around the world in protecting the earth. Greta is a Swedish name of Germanic origin that means ‘pearl.’
Hans Lundgren, known best by his stage name, Dolph Lundgren, is a martial artist and actor. He was born in Sweden in 1957. He studied chemical engineering before transitioning into acting and is best known for his role in Rocky IV. Hans is a shortened form of the Swedish name Johannes and means ‘God has been gracious.’
References
Information from Statistics Sweden, the Central Bureau of Statistics, a government agency that produces official statistics and collects, analyses, and publishes information on Swedish baby names was used in the collection of this data. If you are interested in learning more about Swedish names, information regarding illegal Swedish baby names can be found on Medium, and Swedish given names on Wikipedia.
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