When it comes to ancient mythology, it's easy to rattle off names like Zeus and Hercules from Greek folklore — or Jupiter and Neptune, should one happen to fancy Roman legends. While many of these myths have inspired movies and TV series in modern times, there are other legends on the scene with untapped baby names that deliver a mighty roar. We found a few of our favorites that are bound to make many future baby name lists.
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Whether folks are fans of Thor, have enjoyed Game of Thrones, love fantasy movies, or stay glued to the Vikings series, baby names inspired by Norse mythology just might dethrone previously celebrated titles.
To create our list, we decided to get a little help from a professional. As Emily Cardoza from BabyNameWizard.com notes, these Norse baby names are unusual but extremely unique. "All have roots in Nordic and Germanic languages, with many found directly in mythological stories," writes Cardoza. So, let's fasten our belts and brooches as we hoist the sails upon these unconventional Norse titles.
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Read on to see which Norse names made our top baby name list!
Thor
Well, surprise, surprise! Thor made this list of Norse-inspired baby names. Noted as the Warrior god, Thor is a mighty force who knows how to wield a hammer and wreck some sh*t in the name of justice — or at least in the Avengers movies.
"This thunderous choice may be a lot to live up to, but with Messiah and King on the rise, why not pick an equally bold name?" questions Cardoza.
Can't say we disagree!
Astrid
"Derived from old Norse for 'divinely beautiful,' it's no wonder that Astrid has fans all over the globe," Emily Cardoza notes. "Its vibe is smart and savvy, and it's the kind of name that will age well along with your bright and beloved little one."
Soren
Not to be confused with Sauron, Lord of Mordor who always had is eye on you in *The Lord of the Rings*, Soren is a Norse-inspired name that's on the scene. "Americans have embraced the subtle and stunning Soren: it currently ranks at #577 on the top 1000," Cardoza says. "It's still relatively underused, but Soren's attractive and accessible sound make it a fantastic choice for those who want something familiar but not trendy."
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Valka
Fans of How to Train Your Dragon 2 are already acquainted with Valka, Hiccup's long-lost mother and Stoick's wife (voiced by Cate Blanchett). Pulling inspiration from Valkyrie, a female spirit of a god in Norse mythology, Valka is "more glamorous than fantastical," notes BabyNameWizard.com.
Gunnar
Gunnar is a strong title that will never need ammunition as it hails from the Old Norse Gunnarr that means "war" and "battle." A mythological character born to Giuki and Grimhild, BabyNameWizard.com notes Gunnar has "deep roots in Scandinavian legend" that makes it a winner for our short list.
Liv
While many of us might look at the name Liv and think, "Hey, Liv Tyler and Liv from Scandal," the name may also tip its hat to the Norse mythological character Lif, who helped repopulate the world with Lifthrasir after surviving Ragnarok.
"Small yet sophisticated, Liv works well as either a nickname for Olivia or a formal choice on its own," Cardoza notes. "It's derived from a few etymologies relating it to 'life' and 'protection,' imbuing this compact name with a sense of strength and adventure."
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Magni
Fans of Thor might want to peep the name Magni, the title of the Avenger's son. It's fearsome, tireless, and extremely strong. "With the meaning of 'mighty,' Magni is a tenacious pick for all kinds of personality types, from the sympathetic to the strong-willed," Cardoza points out.
Ingrid
As BabyNameWizard.com notes, the Norse-inspired Ingrid honors Frey, the fertility god thought to be the most the most handsome in all Norse mythology. While a good number of us have seen the name Ingrid in passing, it's not super-popular (well, yet!), so it's perfect for parents looking for a unique moniker.
Odin
If you watched the Thor flicks, you know Odin is the O.G., the main man, the king of Asgard. While Anthony Hopkins's character might deter from classic Norse mythology, there's simply no denying the power of Odin and its distinction.
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"Odin is friendly with an eccentric streak, and its eponym is a favorite in Scandinavian and Germanic culture — interestingly enough, Odin is also the source of the word 'Wednesday,'" Emily Cardoza of BabyNameWizard.com notes.
Saga
Doesn't Saga just sound super kick-ass? As it turns out, there's more to this baby name than just sheer adventure.
"Though it's reminiscent of a word name, like Story or Epic, Saga is actually the name of the Norse goddess of poetry and history," Cardoza reveals. "It's concise, beautiful, and unforgettable, already a favorite in Norway, Sweden, and Iceland."
Cool!
Viggo
Scandinavian for "war," Viggo is a Norse name with Viking roots. "Another name associated with Hollywood via actor Mortensen, Viggo fits in with today's trends while still maintaining its rugged uniqueness," Cardoza explains. "It's not too far off from 'O-factor' favorites Leo, Hugo, or Diego, but it has an energetic and suave vibe that sets it apart."
Freya
There are so many things to love about Freya. Aside from being a leading goddess in Norse mythology associated with fertility and love, Cardoza explains that Freya is "incredibly popular across the pond," but has only risen in popularity here over the years — making it somewhat of an undiscovered gem.
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Loki
Aw, Loki! Tom Hiddleston helped this trickster Norse god come to life in the *Thor* and *Avengers* movies that helped us fall in love with this sometimes nice, most times kinda evil character.
"Though he's a villain in the Marvel films, Loki has captivated audiences with his wit and cunning — enough to motivate an increase in baby boy (and girl) Lokis," Cardoza points out.
Signe
Pronounced SEENG-ne, Signe is thought to be a variant of the Old Norse Signy that loosely means "new victory" and could have you thinking of the name Sydney — though the two titles are quite different. As Cardoza notes, Signe is a "ethereal name" full of "quirky personality" that makes it extra special for expectant mom and dads.
Edda
Check out Edda! Though this title is noted as a Hebrew baby name, Edda honors Elder Edda, a popular book of Norse mythology poems that earns dear old Edda a spot on our list of dreamy baby names inspired by ancient Scandinavia.
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