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).

Home • Baby Names

29 Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With S

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
Seren	Girl	Star; Baby gazelle; Sky; Clear' Cloudless; Peaceful; Clear; Bright; Fair; Joyous; Calm
Sigrid	Girl	Beautiful victory; Beloved victory
Siri	Unisex	Beautiful victory; Beloved victory
Severin	Boy	A serious and stern person
Sigurd	Boy	Victorious guardian
Signe	Girl	New victory
Spurgeon	Boy	Little twig
Susanne	Girl	Lily; Lotus; Rose
Signy	Girl	New victory
Sef	Boy	God will increase; Gid will add

Synnove	Girl	A girl who was the Sun's gift; To be gifted by the Sun
Soli	Unisex	Sun; Capable; Competent; Strange
Sunna	Girl	The Sun
Seija	Girl	Blessed; Fortunate
Sigered	Boy	He who gives a counsel that brings victory
Sigge	Boy	Victory; Perfection
Sigvard	Boy	Protector of victory
Smilla	Girl	One who is always smiling; One with a beautiful smile
Soeren	Boy	One who is a good, stern warrior
Somerild	Girl	One who is a traveler in the summer

Somerled	Boy	One who goes traveling in the summer
Stofn	Boy	To be crowned
Sunnild	Girl	She is like the Sun
Svein	Boy	One who is young in age and spirit
Swaine	Boy	A Boyish person, young in spirit
Synne	Girl	Gift of the sun
Syver	Boy	One who defeated others; One who is a victor
Signa	Unisex	Victory; To bless
Sedalia	Unisex	Graceful; Elegant; Serene

Infographic: Top Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With S

Our infographic below features options from timeless classics to contemporary favorites that complement your child's personality. Scroll through the list to find the perfect name that reflects your preferences and your family's shared values.

Scandinavian Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With S(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.