Top 120 Scandinavian Girl Names & Their Meanings

Naming your child is a life-changing and endearing moment that can sometimes be filled with anxiety. This is because a name lasts for a lifetime, and you want to pick one meaningful to you – historically, culturally, spiritually, or because it is rare, awe-inspiring, timeless, and describes personality traits you want to imbue in your bundle of joy.

These days, parents prefer steering away from traditional and cultural classics and instead turning to names inspired by other nations, cultures, beliefs, and practices. Scandinavia is known for its beauty, mythology, history, language, and culture. It covers the countries of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, home to some unique and magical names born from their rich heritage. We have compiled a list of these Scandinavian girl names, perfect for your little princess.

Popular Scandinavian Girl Names

We have created a list of unique and stunning Scandinavian baby girl names. Let’s have a look:

1. Agnes

The meaning of this name is ‘chaste woman.’ It is of English and Scandinavian origin and is a serene name for girls,

2. Alina

This sweet Scandinavian female name is quite common and means’ bright’, ‘noble,’ and ‘alone.’

3. Andrea

Andrea is a timeless classic that is perfect for your little warrior! It is a feminine form of the Greek name Andrew and means ‘brave.’

4. Anna

The popular Scandinavian name for girls is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Hannah. 

5. Birna

The name is a favourite in Scandinavia as it means ‘female bear.’ It is the ideal choice for your little cuddle bug!

6. Bimasha

Bimasha is an ethereal Scandinavian female name that means ‘woman from the sea.’

7. Botill

This is one of the unique names which means ‘one who likes to order or command.’ It is perfect for well-behaved little ones!

8. Carina

Every child is so close to their parents, so one should opt for this name as it means ‘dear one.’ Carina is a pretty name of Latin, Scandinavian, Italian, and Spanish origin.

9. Dagmar

Every daughter one day will be a ‘mother,’ and this beautiful name perfectly encapsulates the bond between mothers and daughters.

10. Edda

This short yet elegant name is of Old Norse origin. It translates to ‘clear vision of the future.’

11. Elise

Of French and Hebrew origin, Elise is a stunning Scandinavian name for girls that stands for ‘God is my Oath.’

12. Elizabeth

This is one of the famous Scandinavian girl names and is commonly used. It means a ‘person who is blessed by God and provides them with all happiness of life.’

13. Erica 

The name has Old Norse roots and stands for ‘queen.’ It is befitting of your precious little princess!

14. Erika

This is a mighty name as it means ‘one who rules the world.’ This Old Norse name has Germanic roots as it is made for little go-getters!

15. Edith

The name is derived from the Old English word ‘ēad.’ It means ‘riches’ or ‘blessed’ and is a perfect name to express your wishes and hopes for your baby girl!

16. Ellinor

Ellinor is a Scandinavian variant of the name Eleanor and means ‘sympathy’ or ‘compassion.’

17. Emilie

It is a variant of Emilia and derived from the Latin word ‘Aemulus.’ The name means ‘ambitious,’ ‘rival,’ and ‘industrious.’

18. Emma

Your baby girl means the world to you; this name captures that emotion! Emma is derived from the Germanic word ‘ermen’ and means ‘whole’ or ‘universal.’

19. Esther

Being of Greek origin, this beautiful name means ‘like a star’ or ‘myrtle leaf.’ It is the cutest name for your little angel!

20. Frida

The name is derived from the Old Norse name ‘Fríða.’ It means ‘beautiful’ or ‘beloved.’

21. Freya

A baby comes with lots of love and happiness in a family. So this is one of the most suggested names as it means ‘Goddess of Love.’

22. Gefjun

This is one of the unique names being used or heard. It means ‘prosperity,’ which is very important in life.

23. Guorun

Guorun is an Old Norse name that translates to ‘God.’ It is a name tailor-made for your blessing from above!

24. Hedda

A Norwegian and Swedish name of German origin, this name stands for ‘battle’ or ‘female warrior.’

25. Helena

Helena is a name of Swedish origin. This beautiful name means ‘torch.’

26. Hanna

This is one of the most popular and widely used names from the lands of Scandinavia worldwide.

27. Ida

Ida has an ancient Germanic etymology, which translates to ‘industrious’ or ‘prosperous.’

28. Ines

Ines is a Scandinavian name for girls that is a timeless classic! It is of Swedish origin and means ‘sacred’ or ‘chaste.’

29. Isabella

It is a variant of the Hebrew name Elisheba and is of Spanish, English, and Italian origin. It means ‘God is my oath.’ 

30. Johanne

Johanne is a popular Scandinavian female name that translates to ‘God is gracious.’

31. Julia

Julia is the Danish, German and French form of Julia. It is a beautiful name for ‘soft-haired, ‘youthful, and is the feminine form of the Latin name Julius.

32. Kai

A child is the world of every parent. By giving your daughter this name, you deliver your love as Kai means ‘earth.’

33. Karla

A Scandinavian form of Charles and a feminine version of Karl, Karla means ‘freeman’ or ‘peasant.’

34. Karlie

This is a classy name which sounds very sophisticated. It means ‘a free woman’ who is self-independent and confident to face all life’s hurdles.

35. Karen

Karen is a simple yet classic name from the Greek word Aikaterine, which means ‘pure.’

36. Laura

The name is originally of Swedish origin. It means ‘crowned with laurels.’

37. Lea

This name is also a variant of the name Leah. It is of Finnish origin and translates to ‘flower.’

38. Linda

It is a nickname for names which contain the word ‘lind,’ like Rosalind or Belinda. The name means ‘soft’ or ‘tender.’

39. Livia

Livia can be considered to be a variant of various names. However, on its own, it means ‘life’ or ‘olive tree.’

40. Lo

This is a variant of the name Lou and is of Swedish origin. The name represents a ‘lynx.’ 

41. Marie

It is the Danish form of the name Maria. The name means ‘star of the sea.’

42. Maya

This name has multiple origins, but in Scandinavian culture, it means ‘splendid.’

43. Mia

The cute name is made for your sweet baby girl. Mia is of Italian and Scandinavian origin. It means ‘mine’ or ‘bitter.’

44. Mille

Mille is a spiritual name that is both beautiful and meaningful. It stands for ‘one who helps the priest.’

45. Nova

The name is derived from ‘novus’ and means’ new.’ This ethereal name is of Latin origin.

46. Oda

This poignant name translates to ‘point.’ It is a short yet charming Scandinavian name for girls, ideal for your baby girl!

47. Olivia

In Nordic cultures, the name Olivia means ‘the kind one.’ It is famous worldwide but still retains its charm over time!

48. Odda

It is a beautiful Nordic girl’s name, which means a ‘person who is perfect or complete from every aspect’ in their life.

49. Oddny

Oddny is a rare and unique name of Norwegian and Icelandic origin. It translates to ‘chosen one’ and is apt for the baby girl you brought into this world!

50. Olav

If you are a parent concerned about their family morals and culture, then the name Olav is suggested to you; it means ‘ancestor’s descendant.’

51. Quinnie

Every parent wishes their child to grow and gain all wealth and happiness in life. Therefore, this name seems best as it means ‘one who lives a royal life.’

52. Ronja

A baby brings a lot of emotions to a family or between a couple. This name means ‘a joyful song of God.’ Similarly, she can always be your bundle of joy.

53. Sigrid

This uncommon name can surely add an identity for your daughter. It means a person who brings victory in whatever she does.

54. Sigurd

A kid with ‘victory’ as the meaning of her name can never be defeated. She will grow into a strong human who can easily handle all the odds of life.

55. Sofia

This is a popular name worldwide and translates to ‘wise.’ It is the Swedish variant of the Greek name Sophia.

56. Sara

It is a Swedish variation of the name Sarah and means ‘princess,’ ‘queen,’ or ‘lady,’ which is everything your daughter is to you!

57. Thea

This is a trendy Scandinavian female name of Greek origin. It means ‘courageous’ and ‘gift of god.’

58. Tiril

Tiril is a charming Scandinavian female name that translates to ‘lotus.’ This name for your baby girl is as pretty as a picture!

59. Vera

The name is of Swedish origin and means ‘truth’ or ‘victory.’ It is also a name used by the namesake character from the English TV series ‘Vera!’

60. Victoria

In Roman mythology, Victoria was the name of the Goddess of victory. It is also a name popular in Scandinavian countries and is a beautiful choice for your baby girl!

Beautiful Scandinavian Names for Girls

Just like the beautiful countries that form the region of Scandinavia, this list has some charming Scandinavian female names that are sure to make heads turn and take notice! Scroll on and learn more about these stunning baby girls’ names that are sure to inspire you and fill you with joy!

1. Aleksandra

The name was one of the epithets given to the Greek Goddess Hera. It means ‘one who comes to save warriors.’

2. Asta

Every parent’s life is situated in their child; thus, this name is one of the top listed names as it means ‘love.’

3. Astrid

This Scandinavian name sounds unique and means ‘who is heavenly beautiful.’

4. Aino

This name has a beautiful meaning. It stands for ‘unique’ and ‘only one,’ apt for your priceless little girl.

5. Amalie

Amalie is a German variant of the name Amalia. It is a resilient Scandinavian name for ‘hard-working’ and ‘industrious.’

6. Aurora

This beautiful name is indeed fit for a princess. Named after the Roman Goddess, this name stands for ‘dawn.’ It could also reference the Aurora Borealis, a colourful phenomenon seen in the sky in Scandinavian nations.

7. Britta 

The meaning of this Scandinavian name is ‘strength.’ 

8. Carianne

This Scandinavian name for girls, meaning ‘a pure woman,’ sounds relaxed and sophisticated. 

9. Clara

It is the feminine form of the Late Latin name Clarus and means ‘clear’ or ‘famous.’

10. Dagna

This name comes from the land of Scandinavia, which means ‘a special day.’

11. Dahlia

This floral name originates from the widely known flower, ‘dahlia,’ and is of Swedish origin.

12. Ebba

It is a diminutive form of the Germanic name Eberhard or Everhard. It means ‘strong.’

13. Else

This is a short but classy name which means ‘noble.’ This name can be used as it is or as a short form of Elizabeth.

14. Esabell

This is another trendy and commonly heard name. If you are from a religious family, this Scandinavian female name, which means ‘lady who is devoted to the Almighty,’ is the one for you!

15. Eline

The name is of Finnish origin and means ‘god has answered.’

16. Ella

The name is a 19th-century shortening of Eleanor or Ellen. It has Old Norse roots and stands for ‘light,’ ‘bright,’ or ‘torch.’

17. Enni

The name Enni represents ‘someone who fights with a sword.’ The name is of Finnish and Old Germanic origin. 

18. Erla

This sweet name is of Scandinavian origin and means ‘wagtail bird.’

19. Freja

Freja is a name of Swedish origin. This beautiful name means ‘lady’ or ‘noblewoman.’

20. Gersemi

For every parent, their daughter is the jewel; they are beyond any value. Thus, one should opt for this name, meaning ‘a jewel or a precious gem.’

21. Gry

Gry is a beautiful Scandinavian name that is gender-neutral. The name translates to ‘dawn.’

22. Harpa

Harpa is an Old Norse word for ‘harp.’ This name is perfect for parents who want to give their child a musical name. 

23. Hilla

This sweet name is quite popular in Finland. The name means ‘cloudberry.’

24. Hulda

Hulda has many origins. The name means ‘sweet’ and ‘lovable’ in Old Swedish. 

25. Hanne

This is a fantastic name to flaunt by keeping your daughter’s name. Women with this name are generally very charming, graceful and elegant.

26. Iben

Being a gender-neutral name, Iben is quite a famous name. It means ‘yew wood.’

27. Ilona

The name is quite common in Finland as it means ‘as a joy.’

28. Isla

The name is derived from a Scottish place named Islay. It means ‘swelling island.’

29. Josefine

It is a Danish variant of the name Josephine. It means ‘Jehovah Increases.’

30. Jennsen

A baby is a gift of God to every parent. This name means ‘favour or a gift.’ One can use this name to show their love and affection for their daughter.

31. Karalie

Finding a true soul one can trust is challenging in this modern world. It is a variant of Katherine and stands for ‘pure.’

32. Kristinn

It is one of the commonly heard names these days. If you are looking for a religious name, this is Kristinn, an individual who has faith and belief in Christ.’

33. Kaarina

It is a famous Finnish name meaning ‘chaste’ and ‘pure.’ It is an elegant name befitting your precious angel.

34. Leia

The name’s original form is Leah and means ‘weary.’ It was made famous by the Star Wars character Princess Leia!

35. Leonora

Leonora is a variant of the name Elanor and means ‘torch.’ It is of Greek origin.

36. Lilja

Lilja is a popular Scandinavian name for girls of Finnish origin. It translates to ‘lily.’

37. Luna

This name has the same meaning across cultures. This sweet name represents the ‘moon.’

38. Lærke

It is one of the most popular girl names in the Scandinavian region. The name means ‘lark.’

39. Mathilde

Gothic culture highly influences the name and means ‘strong in war.’ 

40. Meja

This unique name of Old Norse origin is a unique choice that translates to ‘power’ or ‘force.’

41. Merle

This gender-neutral Scandinavian female name is of French origin and means ‘blackbird.’

42. Mette

The name means’ pearl’ and has German, Scandinavian, and Norse origins.

43. Olafur

This name means ‘protection.’ This name captures something you always wish to provide to your daughter.

44. Onni

This Scandinavian name is of Finnish origin. It stands for  ‘luck,’ ‘success,’ and ‘happiness.’

45. Roselen

Names derived from flowers are highly on-trend now. It is the Scandinavian female name form of ‘Rose.’

46. Runa

This name is from Old Norse and means ‘secret lore.’ It is the female version of the male name, ‘Rune.’

47. Sanna

The meaning of the name is ‘a flower’ or ‘lily.’ Your daughter is as pretty and delicate as a flower, so Sanna is an appropriate name.

48. Siv

This name means ‘bride’ in Old Norse, and Siv, also called Sif, was the wife of Thor, the God of Thunder.

49. Smilla

Your baby is your bundle of joy; looking at her makes you smile. This name means ‘a person who always has a beautiful smile.’

50. Sunnie

Sunnie is a cheerful and warm name of Scandinavian origin. It stands for ‘gift of the Sun.’

51. Saga

Saga is a name of Old Norse origin that refers to the Goddess of storytelling and means ‘she who sees everything.’

52. Selma

The name is a variation of Selim and means ‘peaceful.’ It has Celtic, Germanic, and Arabic roots.

53. Sofie

It is a variation of the Scandinavian name Sofia and means ‘wise’ or ‘wisdom.’

54. Thora

This female name honours Thor, the Norse God of Thunder. It is a mighty name for your little storm!

55. Tonje

One of the unique Scandinavian baby girl names is Tonje. It means ‘one who is invaluable,’ for every parent, their child is precious to them and thus, the name is highly suggested. 

56. Tuva

The name sounds so unique. It means ‘beautiful,’ and yes, every daughter is exceptional and gorgeous in the eyes of their parents.

57. Uzma

Though this name is short, it is impactful, meaning ‘luxurious’ and ‘supreme.’ It has Scandinavian, Arabic, and Scottish roots.

58. Venla

Vebla is the Finnish feminine variant of Wendell, which means ‘to travel’ and ‘to proceed.’

59. Viola

Viola is a stunning name of Swedish origin that is tailor-made for your little flower! It translates to ‘violet.’

60. Wilma

This interesting name is of German, Scottish, and Swedish origin. It means ‘resolute protection.’

FAQs

1. Are there naming traditions or customs in Scandinavia for Naming Girls?

While there are no specific naming ceremonies, one of the customs in Scandinavia is to name the firstborn after the paternal grandparents and the secondborn after the maternal grandparents. You can also combine this naming custom with your cultural practices if you’re not Scandinavian!

2. Are there famous figures with Scandinavian girl names?

Some famous figures include singer Aurora Aksnes, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, actress Viola Davis, politician Sanna Mirela Marin, journalist Ida B. Wells, Queen Dagmar of Denmark and many more!

3. Can Scandinavian girl names be modified or have nicknames?

Of course! Names like Mathilde could be shortened to Hilde, Viola to Vi, Sofie or Sofia to Sof, Isobella to Isa or Bella, Emilie or Emma to Em, and many more. Pick your favourite name and see if you can break it down to create a nickname!

We hope our list of beautiful Scandinavian baby girl names was helpful to you and you have found the perfect one for your daughter. All the best to you for your life ahead.

Also Read:

Portuguese Girl Names
Brazilian Names for Girls
African Girl Names with Meanings
Arabic Girl Names and their Meanings

Our Editorial Policy

Parenting is a huge responsibility, for you as a caregiver, but also for us as a parenting content platform. We understand that and take our responsibility of creating credible content seriously. FirstCry Parenting articles are written and published only after extensive research using factually sound references to deliver quality content that is accurate, validated by experts, and completely reliable. To understand how we go about creating content that is credible, read our editorial policy here.