How popular are Scandinavian baby names in other countries?

Popular culture has led to a coming together of many cultures, which is evident in the migration of given names. Scandinavian names have found their way to other countries, whether through films or books. Names like Bodie, Carson, Eric, Finn, Jense, and Sofia have been widely used in other countries.

What is the meaning behind the name "Sven"?

Sven is a masculine name with Old Norse origins. Taken from the byname Sveinn, it means boy and was borne by many rulers of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.

How do Scandinavian baby names reflect the region's culture and history?

Naming patterns in Scandinavian countries tell of the Viking origins and changes that have since taken place (2). The traditional naming patterns follow the patronymic style, where personal names are inherited from the father. For example, the first son would be named after his paternal grandfather, the second son would be named after his maternal grandfather, and the third son would be named after the father. For daughters, the first daughter would be named after her maternal grandmother, the second would be named after her paternal grandmother, and the third daughter would be named after her mother (3).

How are names chosen for newborns in modern-day Scandinavia?

Baby names in Scandinavia, specifically Sweden, are chosen and approved through the Swedish naming law. The law requires the governments approval for naming your child. A name should be submitted three months before birth, and the Swedish Tax Agency will administer the registration of names in Sweden (4).

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20 Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Ari	Boy	Lion; Eagle; Brave; Most holy; Sun-like; Visible; Generous; Chief; Superior
Astrid	Girl	Godly strength; Divine beauty
Axl	Boy	Father is peace
Arna	Girl	Eagle; Power
Andersen	Unisex	Descendant of Andrew
Alrik	Boy	Noble; Powerful ruler; Ruler of all
Aerik	Girl	Noble king; Ever ruler
Allis	Girl	Nobility
Aroldo	Boy	Army ruler
Ax	Boy	My father is peace

Angele	Girl	Messenger of God; Angel
Ansfrid	Boy	Protected by God
Ansgar	Boy	God spear; Gentle friend; A variant name of Oscar
Anshelm	Boy	Protected by God; A variant of name Ansel
Adney	Boy	The noble's island; Eadwynn's island; Island of prosperous joy
Alfin	Boy	Finn; Elf friend
Asva	Boy	Having speed like a horse; One who is swift
Aus	Boy	Honest; Lea; Open grassy area; Ridge; Esker
Axill	Boy	One who spread peace; Kind of father
Annique	Unisex	God has favored me; Beautiful; Sweet faced; Graceful

Infographic: Unique Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A

Finding a baby name for your little one can be exciting and challenging. Our infographic below shares the Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A that are attractive, unique, and versatile. Explore the list to find a name that best reflects your child's hopes, aspirations, and dreams. Share the infographic with fellow parents seeking distinct baby name options for their children.

Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A(infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

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