Norse Names

Though Tate is used almost exclusively for boys, we can see Tate as a stronger surname alternative to Kate or a clipped form of Tatum.

Olaf, though sainted and regal in Norway, is slightly oafish here. It is one of those names that has become completely familiar in the U.S. without ever becoming assimilated. Now that he's a comical character in Disney's Frozen, he might get some more attention.

An ancient name that's been used by the Norwegian royal family; still popular there but not likely to appeal to many American parents.

In Norse mythology, the son of the giant who ruled the wind and air; in modern America, recalls a 1970s girl's nickname name, à la Carrie and Keri.

Despite its brotherly meaning, sounds rather formal and cold.

The name of Sarah Palin's youngest son might also be good for the child of a mathematician. Trig Palin's middle name is Paxson, after a popular snowmobiling area in Alaska.

Variant of Brunhild, still clad in heavy armor. Though the heroine Brunhilda of Quentin Tarantino's recent film Django Unchained may have given this version of the name new appeal.

Original and straightforward, but with little appeal.

Siri is a charming and lively Scandinavian name that is no longer on the table given the ubiquity of Apple's digital Siri. Too bad, because Siri -- along with variations Syrie and Cyrie -- is unique, enchanting, and adorable. But now taken.

Popular in the Scandinavian countries, but in this country it would surely bring to mind the very feminine Halle Berry.

Related to Frida but with a softer sound, this name is Old Norse for "fair, beautiful"

Popular Scandinavian name -- first bestowed in honor of Swedish botanist Carl von Linné, a classifier of plants and animals -- that could make an engaging choice.

So airy, it's almost not there.

This poor lad will spend his life saying, "No, it's Aric, not Eric. Aaric, Arick, Arik Arric, Arrick.

Virtually never heard in this country, with a quirky quality.

Popular in Norway, an interesting choice for anyone with northern European roots.

A favorite in Near Eastern cultures, with a charming meaning.

Found as a first name primarily in baseball books giving the stats on the late New York Yankee Thurman Munson.