93 beautiful Finnish boy names with meanings (2024)

If you’re anything like me, picking the perfect name for your little guy is both exciting and a tad overwhelming.

Have you thought about Finnish boy names?

They’re pretty unique and have some lovely meanings that might just click with you and your family.

In this post, I’m going to share a few of my favorites, explain how to pronounce them (because I know they can look intimidating), and chat a bit about what they stand for.

Whether you’ve got Finnish heritage or simply love the idea of a name that’s a little different, I’m here to help you find the perfect name for your little son.

Read next: 229 cute Scandinavian baby names

Table of Contents

About Finnish boy names

Finnish names often reflect the country’s love for nature and folklore, with names like Tapio derived from forest gods and Aino from epic poems.

Pronunciation is straightforward, with most letters pronounced as written, and emphasis usually on the first syllable.

Unlike their Scandinavian neighbors, Finnish names don’t have the ‘son’ or ‘sen’ suffixes, since Finnish has different linguistic roots.

Finnish names like Mikko or Leena might sound softer and less guttural compared to the harder sounds in Scandinavian names like Björn or Ingrid.

🇫🇮 Most Popular Finnish Boy Names

Let’s start by looking at the most popular Finnish boy names that you might consider for your child.

1. Eetu

Eetu, a variant of Edward, means “wealthy guardian”. It’s a name with both gravitas and a touch of old-world charm.

Pronunciation: EH-tu

2. Leevi

Leevi is the Finnish version of Levi, which has biblical origins meaning “joined” or “attached”.

Pronunciation: LAY-vee

3. Elias

Elias is a name of Hebrew origin meaning “Yahweh is God”. It’s a name with depth and spiritual significance.

Pronunciation: EH-lee-as

4. Oliver

While Oliver has Latin roots and means “olive tree”, it’s gained popularity in Finland as a modern choice.

Pronunciation: OL-ee-ver

5. Emil

Emil comes from the Latin Aemilius, meaning “rival”. It’s compact and carries a sense of strength.

Pronunciation: EH-meel

6. Aapo

A Finnish form of Abraham, Aapo means “father of many”, echoing its biblical connection.

Pronunciation: AH-po

7. Väinö

Rooted deeply in Finnish mythology, Väinö is a name derived from Väinämöinen, a central character in the Finnish epic Kalevala.

Pronunciation: VINE-oh

8. Noel

Noel has a universal appeal, but in Finland, it’s adopted for its connection to Christmas and the notion of birth.

Pronunciation: NO-el

9. Leo

Leo, meaning “lion”, is a name that symbolizes strength and is favored for its brevity and power.

Pronunciation: LAY-o

10. Niilo

A Finnish variation of Nicholas, Niilo means “victory of the people”, blending heritage and triumph.

Pronunciation: NEE-lo

11. Eino

Eino, another classic Finnish name, carries the essence of “one” or “alone”, ideal for a unique individual.

Pronunciation: AY-no

12. Veeti

A diminutive of the name Väinö, Veeti is more contemporary while still retaining a touch of Finnish tradition.

Pronunciation: VEH-tee

13. Mikael

In the Finnish version of Michael, Mikael means “who is like God”. It’s a name with a strong, enduring presence.

Pronunciation: MEE-kah-el

14. Lenni

Lenni is a name that radiates warmth and approachability, a Finnish abbreviation of Leonard meaning “brave lion”.

Pronunciation: LEN-nee

15. Daniel

With Hebrew roots meaning “God is my judge”, Daniel is universally recognizable and well-loved in Finland.

Pronunciation: DAN-yel

16. Kasper

The Finnish spelling for Casper, Kasper means “treasurer” and is a name associated with wisdom and trust.

Pronunciation: KAS-per

17. Joona

Joona is the Finnish form of Jonah, meaning “dove”. It’s a name that’s both gentle and carries biblical weight.

Pronunciation: YO-uh-nah

18. Akseli

Akseli is the Finnish equivalent of Axel, meaning “father of peace”, combining Nordic strength with a message of harmony.

Pronunciation: AK-seh-lee

19. Lauri

A form of Laurence, Lauri means “from Laurentum”, which is notable for its classical resonance.

Pronunciation: LAU-ree

20. Matias

Matias is derived from Matthew, meaning “gift of God”. It’s a name with a generous spirit and rich provenance.

Pronunciation: MAH-tee-as

21. Aleksi

Aleksi, a Finnish variant of Alexander, means “defender of the people” and hints at nobility and courage.

Pronunciation: AH-lek-see

22. Benjamin

Benjamin, meaning “son of the right hand”, carries a sense of strength and virtue.

Pronunciation: BEN-yah-min

23. Viljami

The name Viljami is a Finnish form of William, meaning “resolute protector”. It meshes protection with a firm steadfastness.

Pronunciation: VIL-yah-mee

24. Oskari

Oskari, from the Old Norse name Ásgeirr, means “god spear”. It’s embedded with a sense of might and history.

Pronunciation: OS-kah-ree

25. Anton

Anton, a name of Latin origin, means “priceless”. In Finland, it’s appreciated for its classic, timeless appeal.

Pronunciation: AN-ton

26. Rasmus

An endearing name, Rasmus is the Finnish form of Erasmus, meaning “beloved”.

Pronunciation: RAS-mus

27. Eemeli

Eemeli is the Finnish take on Emil, meaning “rival”, and is cherished for its strong, yet melodic quality.

Pronunciation: EH-meh-lee

28. Toivo

Toivo means “hope” in Finnish, a name that embodies optimism and positivity.

Pronunciation: TOY-vo

29. Aatu

A modern abbreviation of Adolf, Aatu conveys a sense of nobility and distinction.

Pronunciation: AH-tu

30. Henri

The Finnish version of Henry, Henri signifies “home ruler”. It’s regal yet accessible.

Pronunciation: HEN-ree

31. Veikko

Veikko, a brotherly name, means “brother” in Finnish, resonating with kinship and closeness.

Pronunciation: VAY-kko

32. Vilho

Vilho, a derivative of William, shares the meaning “resolute protector” and encapsulates security and determination.

Pronunciation: VIL-ho

33. Armas

Armas, literally meaning “dear” or “beloved” in Finnish, is a name full of affection and warmth.

Pronunciation: AR-mas

34. Juhani

Juhani, the Finnish form of John, means “God is gracious”. It’s a testament to humbleness and grace.

Pronunciation: YU-hah-nee

35. Tauno

A distinctive Finnish name, Tauno means “modest” or “peaceful”, associated with tranquility and humility.

Pronunciation: TAU-no

36. Sakari

Sakari is the Finnish form of Zechariah, meaning “God has remembered”. It stands out for its spiritual depth.

Pronunciation: SAH-kah-ree

37. Ilmari

Heavily tied to Finnish mythology, Ilmari stems from Ilmarinen, a divine blacksmith and one who creates.

Pronunciation: IL-mah-ree

38. Jari

Jari is a name with multiple origins, but in Finland, it’s seen as a shortened form of Jarl, meaning “nobleman”.

Pronunciation: YAH-ree

39. Jere

Jere is a Finnish shortened form of Jeremiah, meaning “exalted of the Lord”. It’s a name bestowed with honor and faith.

Pronunciation: YE-reh

40. Markku

In Finnish tradition, Markku, akin to Mark, means “warlike”. It embodies a fighting spirit and determination.

Pronunciation: MAR-kku

41. Juho

Juho is derived from John and conveys the same sense of grace—”God is gracious”.

Pronunciation: YU-ho

42. Alvar

With its Norse origins, Alvar means “elf warrior” or “guardian”. It’s a name with a mythical touch and protective essence.

Pronunciation: AL-var

43. Aarne

Aarne, the Finnish take on Arnold, means “eagle ruler”. It combines natural majesty with leadership.

Pronunciation: AAR-neh

44. Aimo

Aimo stands strong with the meaning of “generous amount”. It’s distinctive and altruistic.

Pronunciation: AI-mo

45. Ahti

A name of Finnish mythological origin, Ahti is a sea god, emblematic of strength and adventure.

Pronunciation: AH-tee

46. Aulis

Aulis is a Finnish name suggesting “gracious”, and “helpful”, pointing to kindness and benevolence.

Pronunciation: AUL-is

47. Esa

A short form of Esaias, the Finnish version of Isaiah, Esa means “salvation”.

Pronunciation: EH-sah

48. Esko

Esko is a pet form of Esaias, and like Esa, it also ultimately means “salvation”.

Pronunciation: ES-ko

🇫🇮 Sami names

Sami names come from the Sami people, native to the Arctic areas of Scandinavia, and are known for their earthy and nature-inspired origins.

49. Ailu

With its Sámi origins, Ailu is a unique name that may not have a widely recognized meaning in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: AI-lu

50. Ante

Ante is a diminutive of the name Antonius, a Roman family name of uncertain etymology but often associated with the Latin “inestimabilis,” meaning “priceless” or “of inestimable worth.”

Pronunciation: AN-te

51. Aslak

Aslak is a name with Old Norse roots, derived from “Áslákr,” which could be interpreted as “God play” or “divine sport,” reflecting a playful or sporty spirit.

Pronunciation: AH-slak

52. Iŋgá

Iŋgá is a name of Sámi origin, and while specific meanings may vary, it is a name that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Sámi people.

Pronunciation: IN-gah

53. Jovnna

Jovnna is a Sámi name, but its specific meaning and etymology are not widely documented in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: YOV-nah

54. Lemet

Lemet is another name of Sámi origin, and like many indigenous names, its meaning may be deeply rooted in the language and culture, with limited information available in English.

Pronunciation: LEM-et

55. Niillas

Niillas is the Sámi form of the name Nicholas, which has Greek origins from the name Nikolaos, meaning “victory of the people.”

Pronunciation: NEE-lahs

56. Risten

Risten is a Sámi version of the name Christina or Kirsten, derived from Christian origins, meaning “a Christian” or “follower of Christ.”

Pronunciation: RIS-ten

57. Heaika

Heaika is a Sámi name with no widely recognized meaning or etymology in English-language references.

Pronunciation: HEY-ka

58. Issát

Issát is a name of Sámi origin, and its specific meaning and background may not be readily available in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: ISS-at

59. Mihkkal

Mihkkal is the Sámi form of Michael, stemming from the Hebrew name Mikha’el, meaning “who is like God?”

Pronunciation: MIH-kkal

60. Rávdná

Rávdná is a Sámi name, and while its particular meaning and etymology may not be well-documented in English, it is part of the unique Sámi naming tradition.

Pronunciation: RAHV-dnah

61. Sámol

Sámol is a name that likely has its roots in the Sámi culture, with specific meanings and etymology that may not be extensively detailed in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: SAH-mol

62. Ánde

Ánde is a Sámi name, and its meaning and etymology are not widely recognized or documented in English-language references.

Pronunciation: AHN-de

🇫🇮 Rare Finnish boy names

Looking for a unique Finnish name for your boy? Check out this list of uncommon options that might just be perfect.

63. Aarre

Aarre is a Finnish name meaning “treasure,” created in the 19th century from the Finnish word “aarre”.

Pronunciation: AH-rre

64. Arhippa

Arhippa is a Finnish variant of the name Philip, which has Greek origins from the name Philippos, meaning “friend of horses.”

Pronunciation: ar-HEE-pah

65. Arvo

Arvo is a Finnish name meaning “value” or “worth,” derived from the Finnish word “arvo”.

Pronunciation: AR-vo

66. Aslak

Aslak is a Scandinavian name of Old Norse origin, derived from “Áslákr,” meaning “God play” or “divine sport.”

Pronunciation: AH-slak

67. Atro

Atro is a Finnish name, but its specific meaning and etymology are not widely documented in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: AT-ro

68. Eerikki

Eerikki is the Finnish form of Eric, originating from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, meaning “sole ruler” or “eternal ruler.”

Pronunciation: EH-rik-ki

69. Iikka

Iikka is a Finnish diminutive of the name Isaac, which has Hebrew origins, meaning “he will laugh” or “he will rejoice.”

Pronunciation: EEK-kah

70. Ilpo

Ilpo is a Finnish name with no widely recognized meaning or etymology in English-language references.

Pronunciation: IL-po

71. Jalo

Jalo is a Finnish name meaning “noble,” with connotations of high moral quality and distinction.

Pronunciation: YA-lo

72. Jousia

Jousia is a Finnish name, but its specific meaning and etymology are not widely documented in English-language sources.

Pronunciation: YO-see-ah

73. Kauno

Kauno is a Finnish name that is often associated with the word “kaunis,” meaning “beautiful” or “handsome” in Finnish, indicating a person of beauty.

Pronunciation: KOW-no

74. Kimmo

Kimmo is a Finnish name, possibly derived from the ancient Finnish word “kimma,” which refers to a spring or source, or it may have connections to the word “kimmota,” meaning “to bounce” or “to spring up.”

Pronunciation: KIM-mo

75. Kusti

Kusti is a Finnish diminutive form of the name Gustav or August, with Germanic origins, meaning “staff of the Goths” or “venerable.”

Pronunciation: KOOS-ti

76. Lalli

Lalli is a Finnish name with uncertain etymology, but it is famously associated with a legendary figure in Finnish history, Lalli, who according to legend killed the English Bishop Henry.

Pronunciation: LAHL-lee

77. Manu

Manu is a name used in several cultures; in Finland, it is often a diminutive of the name Emmanuel, which has Hebrew origins meaning “God is with us.”

Pronunciation: MAH-nu

78. Nuutti

Nuutti is a Finnish form of the name Knut, which has Old Norse origins from the name Knútr, meaning “knot.”

Pronunciation: NOOT-ti

79. Otso

Otso is a Finnish name that refers to a bear, used poetically and symbolically in Finnish folklore and mythology as a euphemism to avoid calling the bear by its real name.

Pronunciation: OT-so

80. Rane

Rane is a Scandinavian diminutive of names beginning with the element “Ran,” but in Finnish, it could be a short form of Ragnar, which means “warrior” or “judgment.”

Pronunciation: RAH-neh

81. Reko

Reko is a Finnish name, possibly derived from the word “rehti,” meaning “honest” or “upright,” indicating a person of integrity.

Pronunciation: REH-ko

82. Sampo

In Finnish mythology, Sampo is the name of a magical artifact that brings good fortune, often depicted as a mill that produces grain, salt, and gold. The etymology of the name is uncertain, but it holds significant cultural value in Finnish folklore.

Pronunciation: SAHM-po

83. Taavi

Taavi is the Finnish form of David, which has Hebrew origins meaning “beloved” or “dearly loved.” The name is often associated with the biblical King David.

Pronunciation: TAH-vee

84. Tahvo

Tahvo is a Finnish variant of the name Stephen, which is of Greek origin from the name Stephanos, meaning “crown” or “wreath.”

Pronunciation: TAH-vo

85. Tarmo

Tarmo is a Finnish name meaning “vigor,” “energy,” or “drive,” reflecting a spirited and energetic personality.

Pronunciation: TAR-mo

86. Tatu

Tatu is a Finnish diminutive of the name Taneli, which is a form of Daniel, meaning “God is my judge” in Hebrew.

Pronunciation: TAH-tu

87. Timo

Timo is a Finnish short form of the name Timoteus, which is the Finnish version of Timothy, originating from the Greek name Timotheos, meaning “honoring God.”

Pronunciation: TEE-mo

88. Tuure

Tuure is a Finnish name, which may be a variant of the name Thor, derived from the Norse god of thunder, or it could be a form of Arthur, meaning “bear” or “stone.”

Pronunciation: TOO-reh

89. Untamo

Untamo is derived from Finnish mythology, where Untamo is a character known for his dreaminess and lethargy. The name itself is not commonly used and has no well-documented meaning.

Pronunciation: OON-tah-mo

90. Urho

Urho is a Finnish name meaning “brave” or “heroic,” often given to boys to denote courage and valor.

Pronunciation: OOR-ho

91. Usko

Usko is a Finnish name meaning “faith” or “belief,” reflecting a spiritual or religious conviction.

Pronunciation: OOS-ko

92. Valto

Valto is a Finnish name, potentially a variant of Valdemar or Walter, which have Old German origins meaning “ruler of the army.” The name Valto itself does not have a widely recognized meaning in Finnish.

Pronunciation: VAL-to

93. Veli

Veli is a Finnish name meaning “brother,” reflecting the importance of family and kinship. It is also the 79th most common male-given name in Finland.

Pronunciation: VE-lee