Looking for Swedish girl names? You’re in the right place. Sweden and the whole of Scandinavia are so in fashion. All over the world, people are turning towards Sweden to learn how to live a happier life, to embrace minimalism, and to rediscover joy.
Sweden is filled with some of the most content people in the world, and it’s also a beautiful place to visit if you’re looking for Nordic charm. Beyond the stunning hillsides and lakes, you’ll find a wonderful heritage within Sweden which dates back to the Vikings.
Old Norse stories mixed with fairytales and myths make Sweden’s culture a delight to discover.
If you’ve recently met a Swedish girl, and you’re keen to learn more about the history of her name, you might find what you need listed below.
Alternatively, if you’re searching for Swedish girls’ names because you’re expecting a new arrival, this list will be a great source of inspiration.
Here are plenty of amazing Swedish girl names, to bring more Swedish culture into your home.
Swedish female names: Popular Swedish girl names
Sweden, like the rest of Scandinavia, is packed full of wonderful names to explore. Each moniker can sound more poetic due to the unique spellings and word formats used by Swedes.
You’ll notice many of the top Swedish names for women are both beautiful sounding and packed with meaning too.
1. Amalia
The perfect example of one of the top Swedish girl names with a melodic sound, Amalia is amazing to say, and it looks great written down too. This name translates to mean “active”.
Some people believe this name links to Adal, or Adalia — two German names common in the Nordic area.
2. Astrid
This Swedish girl name is a modern form of another Norse title, Ásfríðr. Astrid is complex because it draws from multiple words that mean both God, peace, or beautiful. When used for a Swedish or Norwegian girl, Astrid means divinely beautiful.
3. Agnes
Agnes is a name with both Nordic and Greek origins, making it a fantastic choice for Swedish baby girls. The name translates to “chaste”, “sacred”, or “pure”. In Greece, it’s more common to spell this title with a H at the beginning.
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4. Ebba
Ebba is a feminine version of the popular name Ebbe. This Scandinavian and German name comes from the title “Eberhard” which meant strong. Some people say it’s also connected to an Old English name given to many early saints.
5. Elsa
Elsa is a name of Scandinavian origin, and it comes with a lot of variant forms to consider, such as Elisabet, Elisabeth, Elise, and Ella. Among Swedish baby girl names, Elsa rose to fame quickly in recent years, thanks to the movie, Frozen. It means “pledged to God”.
6. Maja
Maja is a complex name with a lot of roots in different parts of the world. Scandinavian, German, and Arabic at the same time, this title is sure to bring a lot of culture into your life. It’s a top ten name among Popular Swedish names, and it appears a lot in Norway too.
Maja basically means “splendid” or “goddess of springtime and warmth.”
7. Linnéa
Linnéa is a name which appears frequently in Swedish households. Purely Scandinavian and Swedish in origin, the name translates to mean linden or lime tree.
It’s also the title given to a small and pink flower that grows on the mountains and is named after the botanist Carl Linnaeus, who created the system we use to name plants.
8. Klara
Klara is a common female name in Sweden, and it’s also gained a lot of popularity around the world with its Latin spelling: Clara, or Clare. ”Klar” means bright and clear.
9. Filippa
You’ve probably heard this name around wherever you live in the world, but maybe you haven’t seen it spelled quite like this? Filippa is a Swedish girl’s name with a distinct image to it, it’s the feminine version of Filip, and it means “friend of horses.”
10. Freja
This Swedish female name has a variety of alternative spelling options in other parts of Scandinavia, including Freyja, and Freya. The title comes from Old Norse, and it’s meant to represent the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility in Norse lore. This title is a sign of nobility.
11. Anneli
A delightful alternative to Anna, or Amelie, the name Anneli, also commonly spelled Annelie, is originally a nickname for Anna or Anne-Louise.
12. Jolanda
Some argue that Jolanda is a Swedish female name, while others say it’s connected to Italy, Greek, and the Netherlands. Otherwise spelled “Yolanda”, Jolanda means a “violet flower”. This beautiful title sounds soft and yet looks strong.
Swedish names for girls: Meaningful names
Almost every popular Swedish girl name in Scandinavia right now has a unique meaning behind it. However, there are some female names in Sweden with a more interesting background than others. If you love Swedish culture, from Lagom to Hygge, then these names will appeal to you.
1. Tindra
Taken from the wonderful world of Swedish mythology and fantasy, which is packed full of fairies and pixies, Tindra is ideal for a little girl. This Swedish word, which is relatively new, means to shine or twinkle just like the stars.
2. Juni
Juni is the compelling Swedish version of the name June. It’s also popular in Finland. This unique name comes with a lot of meaning beyond its reference to the Summer months. Juniper can be linked to Juniper. It often refers to light, youth and desirability.
3. Ronja
Though it might sound like a traditional Swedish name for girls, Ronja is quite new. This title has some background in Germany and Finland too, and it means “God’s joyful song”.
Aside from its religious connotations, Ronja is also the name of a famous book by Astrid Lindgren, a popular Swedish writer.
4. Sigrid
One of the top Swedish girl names for those who want a touch of heritage for their daughter, Sigrid comes from the Old Norse language. This title has many meanings, including victory and wisdom.
5. Vilhelmina
Probably one of the most unforgettable Swedish baby girl names we’ve seen, this title looks like it was designed for a warrior. This traditional name means “determined protector”, and it’s great for any girl with a strong mind and heart.
6. Annika
Annika has connections to both Sweden and Russia. The meaning changes depending where on the world you go, with some saying it means “grace” and others saying “purity”. Annika is the name of a Swedish golf champion, so it’s gotten a lot of extra attention in recent years.
7. Natalie
Natalie has both Swedish and Hebrew origins. This name is very connected to God, and it basically means “The Lord is Great”.
8. Cecilia
A common name around the world, Cecilia is the female version of Cecil, and it translates to mean blind. Although this meaning might not sound remarkably interesting it first, it’s a reference to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, who was blind, and a talented musician.
9. Eleonora
You’ve heard of Eleanor, but what about the slightly more intricate, Swedish version of the name Eleonora is popular throughout Scandinavia and Germany, and it usually means something like “Shining light” or “illumination”.
10. Frideborg
This might seem like quite a harsh Swedish female name when you see it written down, but it’s anything but. Frideborg, in Swedish, means tranquil or peaceful. Today the shorter version “Frida” is more common.
11. Gunnel
Another odd name with a fantastic meaning, Gunnel is the perfect moniker for your little girl if you know she’s going to be a fierce fighter. The title, which comes from Old Norse and Swedish routes, means “Battle maiden”.
Traditional Swedish girl names you won’t forget
Traditional Swedish girl names date back dozens, even hundreds of years. Some of these traditions are derived from Old Norse, the Vikings and others are passed down around the globe.
Here are some of the traditional options for Swedish girl names you might just fall in love with…
1. Kristina
The Slavic, German, and Scandinavian version of Christina, Kristina is a female version of the Latin name for boys, Christianus, or Kristian in Sweden. The name basically translates to mean “a Christian”. However, some residents of Sweden say it means “to make holy with oil” too.
2. Lovisa
Lovisa is what Scandinavians refer to as a “Swedified” version of the name Louise, which comes from the male form, Louis. This name has been popular in Sweden since the 17th century, and it even has its own place on the Swedish calendar. It means “renowned battle maiden”.
3. Rosel
Here’s a delightful Swedish girl name which seems very close to some of the flowery titles we use elsewhere in the world. Rosel is a Swedish name taken from the word “Rose”. Named after the beautiful, romantic rose flower, Rosel is a clear reference to this name.
4. Saga
In Sweden, a Saga isn’t just a tale or a story — it’s also a wonderful name for a baby girl. Saga is a name which comes from Norse mythology, and the goddess who “sees everything”. Saga is the goddess of storytelling.
5. Ulla
Ulla has links to Scandinavian history, but also German, Norse, and other regions of the world too. This name has a unique sound to it, and it translates to mean “determination” or someone with a fierce amount of will.
6. Blenda
The old fashioned name Blenda is quite a fun Swedish name for girls. Similar in some ways to Brenda, the title translates to mean either glory, or Heroine in Swedish. According to an old legend, Blenda was actually the leader of the women who organised a defense against the Danes attacking the country.
7. Hedvig
Yes, it is a real name, and it’s quite popular in the Norse landscape. Hedvig, or Hedwig, might be the name of Harry Potter’s owl, but it’s also a fantastic name for either girls or boys. This name refers to feelings of strife and struggle.
8. Ingeborg
This Scandinavian name is unlikely to appear anywhere else in the world. It means the “Help of Ing”, which means you’re blessed by the old Norse fertility god, Ing. Ing is one of the primary gods in Old Norse mythology.
9. Kajsa
Kajsa is a popular name in Sweden, and it may also appear with different spellings, like “Kaisa”. This name is a pet form of the larger name, “Katarina”, which comes from the Greek “Katharos”. Like many similar names, it means “pure”.
Unique Swedish girl names and meanings
So far, we’ve covered a huge list of female names in Sweden, perfect for anyone in search of inspiration. Whether you’re looking for traditional Swedish female names, popular Swedish girl names, or something completely different, there’s something for everyone.
For this final portion of our list, let’s look at some unique Swedish names for girls you might not have see around the UK and US before.
1. Kerstin
Similar to Christian, for boys, or “Kirsten” for females, Kerstin is a unique Scandinavian spelling of a more widely known title. This name basically just means “Christian” or someone devoted to God, so it could make for an excellent religious moniker.
2. Lotta
Lotta is a name with both Scandinavian and German origins. Similar in some ways to Lotte, you might not realise Lotta is actually a shorter form of the name Charlotta (taken from Charlotte). It means “freedom”.
It means “freedom”. Maj
Maj might look like quite a blunt name written down, but it has a nice and soft pronounciation. The name has deep connections with Scandinavian origins, and it’s common among parents considering names similar to Mary. It stands for Maja, and it means May.
4. Malena
Malena as well as Malin are short fors of “Magdalena”. The name means “from Magdala”.
5. Petronella
Now this is a name you’re not likely to see when you’re signing your daughter up for nursery or Kindergarten. Petronella is a deeply Swedish name which is actually fairly common in Norway and Sweden. The moniker translates to mean “stone”.
6. Ragnhild
If you’ve got ties to Vikings and the Old Norse world in your family, you may be keen to choose a name that reminds everyone of the Valkyries and warriors of old. Ragnhild is the perfect name. Ragnhild means strong army, and it’s the female form of Ragnar.
7. Rigmor
Know a girl that’s her own kind of royalty? Rigmor is a fantastic Swedish name for girls ready to grow up and rule the world. The title means “name of a Queen”, but it can also translate to things like “Mighty Spirit” in Danish.
8. Solveig
Solveig is another female name in Sweden with Old Norse origins. It’s common among Iceland, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, but it’s also making its way into Germany and France.
The name is the heroine of Ibsen’s Peer Gynt, and it translates to the “strong house” or “daughter of the sun”.
9. Göta
Finally, Göta is an old-fashioned Swedish name with Scandinavian roots. This is a fantastic moniker for strong females, as it literally means “strength”. Göta would be a great way to imbue your youngster with power as she grows up.
Exploring Swedish girl names
Hopefully, this list of female names in Sweden has given you an insight into how diverse the landscape can be. From popular Swedish girl names that have made their way across the boundaries of countries, to unique and traditional names, there’s something for everyone.
To learn more about the fantastic culture and heritage of Sweden, check out some of our other amazing lists of Swedish names. Alternatively, check out some of the common names throughout Norway, Denmark, Finland, and beyond!
FAQ:
Q: What are some popular Swedish girl names?
A: Some popular Swedish girl names include Elsa, Astrid, Ingrid, Freja, and Saga.
Q: What do Swedish girl names mean?
A: Swedish girl names can have various meanings, but many are related to nature or have a strong historical significance.
Q: How can I choose a Swedish girl name for my baby?
A: You can choose a Swedish girl name for your baby by researching popular names, considering the meanings behind each name, and selecting one that resonates with you.
Q: Are Swedish girl names difficult to pronounce?
A: Swedish girl names may be difficult to pronounce for non-native speakers, but many Swedish names are pronounced similarly to English names.
Q: Can Swedish girl names be used in other countries?
A: Yes, Swedish girl names can be used in other countries, but it’s important to consider the cultural significance of the name in the country where it will be used.
Scandification: Discovering Scandinavia.
Now read these:—Your guide to Swedish surnames—Common Swedish first names—Popular Swedish men’s names—Scandinavian names and their meanings—Viking and Norse names, and their origin—Your guide to Scandinavian people traits—Popular Scandinavian female names—Popular Scandinavian men’s names
