70 best Norwegian boy names and meanings (2024)
Choosing the perfect Scandinavian name for your little guy can feel like a huge task, but don’t worry—I’m here to help!
I’ve put together a list of 70 great Norwegian boy names, each with a meaning to help you find that special name that feels just right.
I know you want something that speaks to your heart, so let’s find a name that’s as special as your little one will be.
Read next: 57 beautiful Norwegian girl names with meanings
Table of Contents
About Norwegian boy names
Norwegian names have a distinctive Nordic ring, often characterized by soft consonants and rolling vowels that can sound quite melodic.
Pronunciation can be a bit of a learning curve if you’re not familiar with the language, with certain letters like ‘å’, ‘ø’, and ‘æ’ producing sounds not commonly found in English.
What’s special about these names is their connection to Norway’s rich cultural heritage, often inspired by the country’s stunning landscapes, mythology, and history.
They carry with them a sense of strength and tradition, and for many, they’re a nod to familial roots or an appreciation for the beauty of the Norwegian way of life.
🇳🇴 Popular Norwegian Boy Names
When picking a name for your boy, Norwegian names offer rich histories and meaningful origins. Here’s a straightforward list of popular Norwegian boy names that are both traditional and modern, along with their meanings.
1. Jakob
Jakob, a variant of Jacob, implies “supplanter” and is rooted in biblical tradition.
2. Noah
Noah means “rest” and “repose”, and while it has Hebrew origins, it’s also embraced in Norway.
3. Emil
Emil is thought to come from the Latin ‘Aemilius’, meaning “rival” or “trying to equal or excel”.
4. Lucas
Lucas, a form of Luke, is of Latin origin, meaning “the one from Lucania”.
5. Oliver
Oliver might have roots in the Norse ‘Óleifr’, meaning “ancestral relic”, or the Latin ‘olivarius’, meaning “olive tree”.
6. Isak
Your boy named Isak, Scandinavian for Isaac, carries the meaning of “he will laugh” or “he will rejoice”.
7. Aksel
A name with biblical lineage, Aksel, means “father of peace”, originally Axel, aligning with Norway’s serene landscapes.
8. Einar
Einar is a traditional name meaning “one who fights alone” – a true nod to Norse valiance.
9. Gustav
Gustav comes with the hefty meaning of “staff of the Goths”, a symbol of support and strength.
10. Harald
Harald, king of the name’s meaning “leader of the army”, is regal and commanding.
11. Henrik
Henry in Norwegian form, Henrik means “ruler of the home” for a boy destined to lead.
12. Kasper
Kasper, the Scandinavian twist on Jasper, means “treasurer” – maybe he’ll be good with money.
13. Ludvig
Ludvig, your little warrior, implies “famous warrior” in old Germanic languages.
14. Magnus
Choose Magnus for a name that represents greatness and the legendary King Magnus of Norway and Sweden.
15. Sander
Sander, a shorter version of Alexander, means “defender of men”. It’s solid and to the point.
16. Ulrik
Ulrik means “heritage” and “power”. It’s a name with a commanding presence, ideal for a leader.
17. Oskar
With Oskar, you’re looking at the “spear of the gods”, a name of might and divinity.
18. Mathias
Mathias suggests a “gift of God”, a name to cherish for your little blessing.
19. Jonas
Jonas, the Norwegian form of Jonah, means “dove”, symbolizing peace and spirituality.
20. Filip
Filip is derived from Philip, meaning “lover of horses”. It’s for the child with a free spirit.
21. Alexander
The name Alexander comes heavy with meaning, “defender of men”, and is fit for a born protector.
22. William
William might remind you of royalty, and aptly so, as it means “resolute protector”.
23. Benjamin
Your youngest might suit Benjamin, which means “son of the right hand”.
24. Elias
Elias, a variant of Elijah, suggests “Yahweh is my God”, laden with spiritual significance.
25. Mikkel
Mikkel, the Norwegian twist on Michael, means “who is like God” – a profound and honorable choice.
🇳🇴 Viking Norwegian Boy Names
These names have deep roots in the Viking Age, each one echoing the sagas of Norse warriors and gods. They carry stories of strength and tradition, dating back to a time when the Norsemen roamed the seas.
26. Leif
Leif comes from the Old Norse name Leifr, meaning “heir” or “descendant.” You might know it best from the famous Norse explorer Leif Erikson, who’s credited with being the first European to reach North America.
27. Bjorn
Bjorn means “bear” in Old Norse—think strong and fierce like the animal. It’s a name that exemplifies might and is as sturdy as names come.
28. Erik
Erik has roots in Old Norse as Eiríkr where ei stands for “ever” or “always” and ríkr refers to “ruler” or “king.” A name that denotes a powerful and eternal ruler, fit for a battle-hardened warrior.
29. Ragnar
If you’re after a name that screams legendary, Ragnar ticks the box. It’s derived from the Old Norse elements regin, which means “advice” or “decision,” and arr, which can mean “warrior.”
30. Ivar
Ivar blends yr, Old Norse for “yew,” and arr, the Norse word for “warrior.” Together the name can be seen as “bow warrior,” a nod to the fearsome Viking marksmen.
31. Gunnar
The name Gunnar is all about battle—it combines gunnr (war) and arr. If your lineage has a warrior spirit, Gunnar might be the fit.
32. Håkon
Håkon slices together Old Norse words hár, meaning “high,” with konr, translating as “descendant.” A name that’s made for someone meant to rise above the rest.
33. Torstein
Torstein is a sturdy name from Thor, the Norse god of thunder, and steinn, meaning “stone.” It paints the picture of someone with an unshakeable, godly strength.
34. Sigurd
If you’re looking for a name that hints at victory, Sigurd is it. The Old Norse sigr means “victory,” and vard means “guardian.”
35. Knut
Knut combines knutr, which means “knot,” implying someone tightly knit in strength and character—complex and resilient.
36. Olaf
Olaf is a Norse heavyweight, combining anu, “ancestor,” and leifr, “descendant.” It breathes legacy and heritage.
37. Rolf
The name Rolf straddles Old Norse and Old German, evolving from Hrólfr, with hroð, “fame,” and wulf, “wolf.” It’s meant for someone as formidable as a wolf with a notable reputation.
38. Sven
Sven is a simpler one: it stems from sveinn, the Old Norse word for “boy” or “young man.” It’s used widely across Scandinavia and speaks to youthful vitality.
39. Thorbjorn
Linking directly to Thor, Þórbjǫrn fuses the god’s name with bjǫrn, the word for bear. Picture the strength of a bear with the might of a thunder god.
40. Asbjorn
Asbjorn breaks down to the god As (a term related to the Aesir of Norse mythology) and bjorn, meaning bear. Another name that evokes strong connections to myth and might.
41. Frode
Frode resonates with wisdom and experience. Derived from froðr, meaning “learned” or “wise,” this name isn’t all brawn—it’s got brains too.
42. Kjetil
Kjetil traces back to Old Norse ketill, which means “cauldron” but is also thought to represent a helmet used in battle—function, and protection rolled into one.
43. Lars
Lars is the Scandinavian version of Laurence, coming from the Roman surname Laurentius, meaning “from Laurentum.” It’s less Viking and more cosmopolitan but with strong Nordic roots.
44. Njal
Njal swirls together elements of big Norse mythology, but its exact origins are cloudy. It might weave connections to njóla, meaning “giant,” invoking an image of grand stature and importance.
45. Roar
Roar is as bold as it sounds, hailing from Hróarr, a combination of hróðr, “fame,” and geirr, “spear.” It sets the stage for a famous fighter.
46. Snorre
Snorre comes across as a bit eccentric. It stems from Snorri, which might have ties to the Old Norse snerra, a sudden twist or jerk. It’s also the name of a famous Icelandic historian and poet.
47. Tormod
Lastly, Tormod stitches together Þórr (Thor) and móðr (courage). It balances divine connection with the heart of a lion.
🇳🇴 Rare Norwegian Boy Names
If you’re looking for a unique and distinctive name for your son, these rare Norwegian boy names could be perfect. They have deep roots in Norway’s culture and history.
48. Kleng
Kleng might not be the name you hear every day. It’s a unique Norwegian name that has an old Norse ring to it.
49. Alvar
Derived from Old Norse, Alvar means “elf warrior.” Select this name to give your son a blend of mystique and strength.
50. Bjarne
Bjarne is an old Viking name meaning “bear.” If you’re looking for a name that embodies strength, this one’s a solid pick.
51. Dag
Simplicity stands out with Dag, meaning “day” in Norwegian and Danish. It’s a powerful, one-syllable name that’s both rare and clear-cut.
52. Eilif
Choose Eilif if you want a name that signifies eternity. It’s a remarkable name that’s not common outside Scandinavia.
53. Fritjof
Meaning “thief of peace,” the name Fritjof comes straight from Norse sagas and carries a strong, historic backdrop.
54. Geir
Geir is a concise name that means “spear” in Old Norse. Pick this name if you’re aiming for something that exudes a warrior spirit.
55. Halvor
Halvor, meaning “defender of the rock,” is for those who desire a name that represents stability and protection.
56. Inge
Going with Inge will give your son a name tied to Norse mythology, meaning “ancestor” or “forefather.”
57. Jostein
The name Jostein combines “horse” and “stone” in Old Norse. It’s rare, meaningful, and has a distinct Norwegian vibe.
58. Kåre
Kåre is unique and unassuming, meaning “curly-haired” in Old Norse. It’s suited for someone who wants a name that’s both distinctive and modest.
59. Lorens
Lured by Latin? Lorens, the Norwegian variant of Lawrence, means “from Laurentum” and brings a historical touch.
60. Njål
Njål is a name that’s quite uncommon. Stemming from Old Norse, it captures the essence of Norway’s Viking ancestry.
61. Oddvar
For a name that stands out, Oddvar means “spear’s edge” and resonates with bravery and sharpness.
62. Pål
The Norwegian variant of Paul, Pål holds a meaning of “small” or “humble,” but its charm is anything but.
63. Skule
Opt for Skule if you’re after something with historical weight. It means “protector” and is traditional yet unusual.
64. Trym
Trym is not your everyday name. It’s tied to the god Thor and means “noisy” or “bold” – perfect for a spirited boy.
65. Vetle
Vetle is a sweet and simple name that means “winter traveler.” It could be ideal for a boy born in the colder months.
66. Ådne
Ådne is a rare gem in Norway. It signifies “eagle” and carries a sense of freedom and power.
67. Haldor
This name fuses Old Norse elements “hallr,” meaning “rock,” and “Thor,” the name of the Norse god of thunder. It implies a solid, strong character, possibly under the protection of Thor.
68. Bjarte
This name is a variant of “Bjartr,” originating from Old Norse. It’s derived from the word “bjart,” meaning “bright” or “clear.” This name suggests someone with a luminous, clear-minded character.
69. Torkel
A name with roots in Old Norse, combining “Thor”, the god of thunder, and “ketill”, meaning “cauldron” or “helmet,” symbolizing protection and strength.
70. Vebjørn
This unique name blends “ve”, meaning “holy” or “battle”, with “bjørn”, meaning “bear,” suggesting a strong and revered character.
FAQ – Norwegian boy names
What are popular Norwegian male names?
Some popular Norwegian male names include Anders, meaning “brave,” Fredrik, which stands for “peace” and “power,” and Hans or Jan, meaning “God is gracious”.
Other common names you might come across in Norway are Johan, Nikolai, Christian/Kristian, Erik/Eric, Emil, Noah, and Oliver are also quite popular.
What is a male Viking name?
A classic male Viking name is Erik, which means “absolute ruler”. Another one is Bjørn, meaning “bear”.
What is a traditional name in Norway?
A traditional Norwegian name is Ole, which has a vowel ending, typical for male names in the country.
Another example is Ingrid, meaning “beautiful”. These names have deep roots in Norwegian culture and history.
What is a strong Viking name?
A strong Viking name is Thorbjørn, which combines the name of the Norse god Thor with bjørn, meaning “bear,” suggesting the strength of both Thor and a bear.
Another one is Leif, as in Leif Erikson, the famous Viking explorer.
