Danish Names

This gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, is being discovered in a major way by parents in the US. It's most closely identified with the nineteenth century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, but there have been modern fictional Sorens as well, in The Matrix Reloaded and the book series Guardians of Ga'Hoole, Charlie and Lola, and Underworld.

Hugo, the Latin form of Hugh, has more heft and energy than the original -- and of course we love names that end (or begin, for that matter) with an o. This one is especially appealing because it's backed up by lots of solid history and European style.

A variation of Jenson, which is actually more popular than the original in the United States. This spelling also holds the distinction of being the most common surname in Denmark.

Karen is a Danish diminutive of Katherine, an English name derived from the Greek Aikaterine. The etymology of Aikaterine is contested, but generally considered to have arisen from the Greek root katharos, meaning "pure." Kaja is a related name, as it is another Danish variation of Katherine.

Iver is a popular name in its native Norway, but parents in the U.S. are starting to take note of this rugged yet gentle name. Stemming from the original Norse name Ívarr, it is part of a small group of names with similar roots: Ivar, Ivor, Ivo, Ives, and Evander. It was brought to England by Scandinavian settlers in the Middle Ages, and to the US by in the 19th century.

Juni is the Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of the month name June. While Juni feels cute and fresh, most Americans would assume it was a nickname or a Joni variation. We prefer Juna or the English June.

Adolf may have been a Swedish royal name but the terrible dictatorship of Adolf Hitler has ruled out this name Adolf for any sensible parent. In the US last year, there were more than 100 boys' given the Spanish variation Adolfo and a handful given the old school Adolphus, but none named Adolf or Adolph....thank goodness.

A gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, but with more masculine punch than Loren.

Mads is a perennial favorite in Germany, the Nordic countries, and the Netherlands, where it is usually to be found in the Top 50. Just remember the D is not pronounced. Famous bearers include Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, the villain of the Bond film "Casino Royale".

Kristen may be somewhat past its fashion high point, but it remains forever crystalline clear. Possible problem: confusion with the similar Scandinavian names Kristin, Kirsten, Kirstie, et al.

Kaj is a name that looks great on paper, but while it's pronounced with to rhyme with rye, it is sure to be pronounced by most people to rhyme with "raj" or, much worse, "Madge".

Frederik is a traditional Scandinavian and Dutch variation of Frederick, derived from the Germanic name Friedrich. Composed of the elements 'frid' meaning 'peace' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power,' Frederik translates to 'peaceful ruler.' This name has been borne by numerous European royals, including kings of Denmark and Norway. The spelling variant with a 'k' rather than 'ck' is most common in Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands. Frederik has maintained steady popularity in Scandinavian countries, where it combines historical gravitas with contemporary appeal. In Denmark particularly, it remains among the most enduring boys' names. The name projects strength, nobility, and dignity while maintaining a classic, timeless quality that transcends trends.

This surname related to Clement is strongly associated with Major League pitcher Roger Clemens, winner of more Cy Young awards than any other pitcher in baseball history, and has a softer sound than Clement. Some variations are Clemen, Clementio, Clemention, and Clemons.

Lise is most often found in the U.S. as the second half of the hybrid name Annalise. Canadian journalist Lyse Doucet bears a pretty alternative spelling, pronounced LEESE.

Variation of Christian.

Gives middle-aged Neil a new lease on life.

Bente, pronounced ben-tah, is a popular girls' name in both The Netherlands and Denmark though largely unknown in the English-speaking world. It suffers by being a near-homonym of the English word bent, not the best dictionary equivalent for a first name. Still, if you're looking for a girls' name that equates to Ben or Benjamin or Benedict, this may be one of your best bets.

Ane is a feminine name of Nordic origin, particularly common in Denmark and Norway. It is a variation of Anna, which derives from the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' In Scandinavian countries, Ane has been used for centuries, often appearing in historical records dating back to medieval times. The name has a simple, elegant quality with its short pronunciation and has maintained steady usage without becoming overly popular. In modern times, Ane appeals to parents looking for a traditional name with Nordic roots that is brief and easy to pronounce across languages.

This Danish variation of Celia / Cecilia is quite popular in Denmark in recent years.