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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18 Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With O

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
Osmin	Boy	The one under God's protection
Onnika	Girl	Light reflection of nimble or shine
Odda	Girl	One who is complete in every aspect
Oddlaug	Girl	Derived of water
Oddny	Girl	The Chosen one; Preferred one; Head of a village or society in Arabic
Oddrun	Girl	Someone who is chosen or preferred upon
Oddveig	Girl	Salvation or to be relieved
Olav	Boy	Ancestor's descendant
Oletha	Girl	The person who is remarked by simplicity; Having a humble opinion of himself
Olov	Boy	The fruits of the olive tree.

Olva	Boy	Downhill of the families
Osburne	Boy	The period of heartiest prosperity or productivity
Osca	Boy	A heavenly combatant who always battles for God's sake.
Oswine	Boy	A God's best friend
Oswinn	Boy	A friend of God
Oswy	Boy	A God's friend; optimistic and caring
Otta	Girl	Wealth; Fortune; Heritage; Eighth-born
Orvis	Unisex	Spear of power; Strength

Infographic: Popular Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With O

When you choose a baby name for your bundle of joy, you want it to reflect a meaningful story while fitting their personality. The perfect name may sound elegant, connect to nature, or represent deep-seated traits your family values. Our infographic below contains a compilation of some Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With O, perfect for your little one.

Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With O(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.