Norway is a country that packs a big punch when it comes to culture. It’s the home of Roald Dahl, Vikings (the real ones, not the football team), the winningest Winter Olympics team of all time, and, believe it or not, some pretty gorgeous baby names. Random, but totally true!

Here’s a curated list of 11 of the most versatile baby names Norway has to offer. If you are an expectant parent who has been exhaustively thumbing your way through baby name book after baby name book, we think you’ll find these unique options to be seriously refreshing…

1. Agnetha (AG-ne-tah)

   This Scandinavian form of the English Agnes is best recognized for being the moniker of the religious figure of the same name, St. Agnetha, the patron saint of chastity.

2. Goran (GAWR-ahn)

   A Norwegian baby boy name that has its roots in Greece, Goran translates to “farmer man.” It is also the Norwegian variant of the popular English name, George.

3. Lovise (law-VEE-se)

   Lovise may just be the Norwegian variant of Louise, but we think the name, which means “well-known fighter” sounds a whole lot lovelier spelled this way.

4. Hemming (HEM-ing)

   In addition to being one of the easiest-to-pronounce Norwegian names on our list, Hemming also comes with quite the striking meaning of “changing shapes.” A perfect moniker for the most adaptive babes.

5. Embla (EHM-blah)

   This gorgeous Scandinavian name means “elm tree.” Quite the fitting choice for all of you nature-loving moms and dads!

6. Laurits (LAU-rits)

   If you are an expectant parent who has a passion for antiquity, look no further than Laurits. It’s a name that is derived from Laurentum, a famed city that was founded in Ancient Rome.

7. Eydis (IE-dis)

   Eydis is a short, snappy, two-syllable Old Norse name that carries quite the sweet meaning of “good luck.” A fitting choice for your lucky little one!

8. Aksel (AHK-sel)

   In addition to sounding like one of the coolest first names in rock music (did someone say “Axl Rose?”), this Norwegian boys’ name has deep ancient Hebrew origins. In its native form, Aksel translates to “peace of the father.”

9. Runa (ROO-na)

   This sharp, warm, and very easy-to-pronounce name has been one of the most popular options for girls in Scandinavia for generations. It also comes with the enigmatic and ethereal meaning of “secret tradition.” Cute!

10. Geir (GAYR)

    An Old Norse name with quite the strong meaning of “man with spear.” A perfect choice for your little fighter!

11. Katrine (kah-TREEN)

    We love the name Katrina but, let’s face it, it’s been forever sullied by its connection to one of the largest natural disasters in American history. Luckily, the Scandinavian variant, Katrine, is just as gorgeous.

We’d love to hear your take on these unique baby names! Which one is your favorite? Did you give your child any of these names? Do you have another Norwegian name you would like to mention?

Sources:
Belly Ballot
Norway Travel Guide