Unique Viking Boy Names and Their Meanings

Choosing a name with Viking roots is a wonderful way to honor Nordic heritage, giving your child a sense of adventure and identity. In this guide, we delve into a range of classic and lesser-known male Viking-era names—exploring their meanings, origins, and cultural significance—so you can find one that resonates with your family. Along the way, we’ll provide insights into the rich cultural background of these names, helping you make a thoughtful choice.

Are you simply seeking a comprehensive list of Viking-inspired names for boys? Jump here. Interested in Viking names for girls? Read this instead.

Classic Viking names
Where do male Viking names come from?
Viking boy names and their meanings
The cultural significance of classic Viking boy names
Unusual Viking boys names
How to pronounce Viking boys names
120 Viking boys names
FAQs

Classic Viking Names

Here are our ten favorite boy names with Viking origins, many of which are among the most beloved in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway—timeless choices that evoke the spirit of adventure.

• Arne
• Bjørn
• Ulf
• Ivar
• Leif
• Magnus
• Rune
• Sune
• Troels
• Torsten

Meanings and Stories Behind Viking-Era Names

Let’s take a closer look at what these Viking names signify, ensuring you choose the perfect name for your newborn. We’ve also included options featuring Viking male warrior names, Norse god names, and names inspired by the natural beauty of Scandinavia.

Arne

Derived from the Old Norse word Ǫrn, meaning “eagle,” Arne is not only a beautiful name but also suggests soaring ambition and success. A notable name bearer is Arne Jacobsen, the Danish architect famed for his iconic designs, including the egg chair and Copenhagen’s Royal Hotel, a pilgrimage point for enthusiasts of minimalism.

Bjørn

If you’re seeking a name that combines a cuddly connotation with notions of bravery, consider Bjørn, which translates to “bear.” In Norse mythology, Bjørn Ironside was a legendary Viking chief, the King of Kattegat, and the son of the notorious Ragnar Loðbrok. Contemporary figures like tennis star Björn Borg and musician Björn Ulvaeus from ABBA also share this name.

Ulf

Emerging from the Old Norse Úlfr, meaning “wolf,” Ulf symbolizes loyalty and protection—attributes much admired in the Viking Age. This name remains cherished in Scandinavia, with prominent bearers including Swedish chess champion Ulf Andersson and Nobel laureate Ulf von Euler.

Erik

The Old Norse name Erik means “absolute ruler.” Notably, Erik Thorvaldsson, better known as Erik the Red for his fiery hair and beard, is a figure of the Icelandic sagas, having established the first Viking settlement in Greenland during the tenth century.

Frode

From the Old Norse name Fróði, Frode means “wise, clever, and learned”—an ideal choice for a thoughtfully named boy.

Gorm

This Old Norse name translates to “he who worships God.” Gorm the Old, a historical figure, had a rune stone erected in memory of his wife, Thyra, at Jelling, Denmark. His son, Harald Bluetooth, is noted for further commemorating both parents through another substantial stone nearby.

Halfdan

Literally meaning “half Danish,” Halfdan could be a fitting choice for a boy with Danish lineage. This name connects to a Danish king who led an invasion of England in the late ninth century and famously conquered the city of York.

Torsten

Originating from the Old Norse Þórsteinn, meaning “Thor’s stone,” Torsten combines the power of the Norse god Thor with the notion of stability. Modern variations like Torstein and Thorsten remain prevalent across the Nordic regions, with the name Thor experiencing a resurgence since the Thor and Avengers films introduced the character to a new audience.

Harald

Aptly translating to “lord and ruler,” Harald’s legacy includes that of the Viking king Harald Bluetooth, who successfully conquered Denmark and Norway while converting Denmark to Christianity in the tenth century. The technology we know today as Bluetooth is named after Harald, as its creators believed it would unite the world in the same way he united warring tribes. The Bluetooth symbol cleverly combines his runic initials, H (ᚼ) and B (ᛒ).

Ivar

Meaning “bow warrior” or “archer,” Ivar has seen a resurgence, especially thanks to the popular TV series Vikings. In Norse lore, Ivar the Boneless was the son of Ragnar Loðbrok, known for his invasions of England and Ireland.

Knud

Knud, or Knut, translates to “knot.” The eleventh-century king Knut the Great is most known for his legendary attempt to command the tides.

Kåre

Kåre is a charming name with Old Norse roots that means “curly” or “curvy,” making it a delightful choice for a boy sporting curly hair!

Leif

The name Leif translates to “beloved” or “descendant.” Leif Ericsson, the renowned explorer and son of Erik the Red, made headlines for arriving on American shores centuries before Columbus.

Loki

Translating to “airy,” Loki has become synonymous with the trickster god from Norse mythology. Portrayed by Tom Hiddleston in the Marvel films, Loki is a character known for his mischievous antics and rivalry with Thor.

Magnus

Meaning “great,” Magnus is certainly a fitting choice for any baby boy. In Viking mythology, Magnus was the son of Ragnar, and several Scandinavian kings have borne this name, including Magnus Barefoot and Magnus the Good.

Odin

The name Odin evokes imagery of “frenzy,” “rage,” or “poetic inspiration.” As one of the most powerful gods in Norse mythology, Odin presided over war, poetry, and magic—a strong and wise name to consider for a boy.

Ragnar

Translating to “warrior,” “judgment,” or “keeper of the fort,” Ragnar has gained renewed popularity due in part to the legendary figure Ragnar Loðbrok, whose exploits are vividly depicted in the Vikings series, ranging from slaying dragons to launching invasions of British soil.

Rune

Meaning “secret,” Rune is more commonly bestowed upon boys, yet remains a versatile choice. Notable namesakes include Danish musician and DJ Dune RK and Norwegian actor Rune Temte, best known for his role in Captain Marvel. Interestingly, Rune is also the middle name of famed tennis player Björn Borg!

Sigurd

This name, of Norse origin, translates to “guardian of victory.” Sigurd ‘Snake-in-the-eye’ was a legendary figure known for slaying a dragon and reputedly reigned as king of Denmark in the ninth century.

Skade

A unique choice, Skade means “with a cleft chin,” which was regarded as a fortuitous trait in Old Norse culture—an intriguing option for a dimpled baby boy.

Troels

Meaning “Thor’s arrow,” Troels is most popular in Denmark, with a Norwegian variation, Truls, also in circulation. The name is perhaps most famously associated with Troels Lund Poulsen, the current Deputy Prime Minister of Denmark.

Trygve

Rooted in the Old Norse word tryggr, meaning “true” and “trustworthy,” Trygve is an honorable choice for a boy.

The Cultural Significance of Classic Viking Boy Names

Traditionally, Vikings were often named after deceased ancestors—particularly those who had led prosperous lives—imparting the hope that such fortune would extend to the next generation. Additionally, naming children after gods—such as Thor, Ragnar, or Odin—was believed to bestow divine protection on newborns.

Names reflecting valor or exploration, such as Leif or Erik, also gained popularity as parents hoped their boys would inherit a spirited adventurousness. Yet, while these names have an illustrious history, many are less frequently chosen among contemporary Scandinavian parents today.

Exceptions remain, with Erik still being prevalent in Sweden, despite not being among the top ten names currently bestowed on newborns. Over the twentieth century, names with gentle or nature-oriented roots, like Bjørn (meaning “bear”) and Arne (meaning “eagle”), enjoyed their own popularity, though trends seem to shift towards more international selections among twenty-first-century parents. For further insights into what Scandinavian families are naming their sons today, explore our features on Cool Swedish boy names and their meanings and Cool Danish boy names and their meanings.

Unusual Viking Boys Names

If you’re in search of something more distinctive, consider an unusual Viking boys’ name. For instance, if your son happens to be larger than average, Njal, which means “giant,” might be fitting. Alternatively, for a spirited child, names like Roar (“fame and spear”) or Ødger (“wealth and spear”) could be a good match. Or, if simplicity is your style, Sune, meaning “son,” offers a straightforward yet charming option.

How to Pronounce Viking Names

While the precise pronunciations of Viking names remain elusive due to the absence of historical recordings, many experts agree that modern Icelandic comes closest to how these names were originally pronounced. It’s worth noting that the main emphasis typically falls on the first syllable, and the r sound is consistently rolled.

For additional guidance on pronouncing Viking names, consider checking out this helpful video.

120 Viking Boy Names

FAQ about Viking Names

Are Viking names still used in Scandinavia today?
Yes. Many Old Norse names—from classics like Erik to rarer choices like Sören—remain in use, often in modernized forms.

Is it culturally appropriate to choose a Viking-style name today?
Generally speaking, yes, as long as it’s approached with respect. Understanding the historical context and steering clear of idealized notions about “Vikings” sets a thoughtful groundwork.

What’s the difference between Old Norse names and modern Nordic names?
Old Norse names originate directly from the Viking Age language, whereas modern Nordic names may draw inspiration from them, reflecting changes over centuries. Many contemporary names retain Old Norse roots, though their spelling and pronunciation may have evolved.

Picked a Name Yet?

Opting for a Viking-era name can serve as a meaningful connection to Nordic heritage—whether you’re expecting a child, searching for a name for a character, or simply intrigued by Scandinavia’s rich history. Do you have a favorite from our list, or know of an Old Norse name we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!

See also:
The coolest Viking hairstyles
Cool female Viking names and their meanings
Viking tattoos and their inspirations