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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8 Scandinavian Baby Names Meaning, Starting With M

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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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

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
Mattis	Unisex	Strong and steadfast
Maja	Girl	Splendid; Mother; Great
Meya	Girl	Beloved; Sea of bitterness; Rebelliousness; Wished for child; Powerful; Strength; Magic; Illusion; Brilliant star of the ocean
Minda	Girl	Knowledge; Wisdom; Lovable; Dark-skinned; Bee
Meta	Girl	Pearl; Beyond;
Melton	Boy	City in the middle of villages; The middle settlement
Makaiden	Boy	One who is known as a famous warrior
Mimir	Boy	The wise person; One who remembers easily

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