Scandinavian last names list So, just what are the most common Scandinavian last names in Minnesota? Patronymic: Many Scandinavian last names are patronymic, which means they’re passed from the father of the family. Scandinavian last names - there are 689451 people with Scandinavian origin last names in the USA. Here are a few examples: Mar 29, 2024 · Scandinavia is a Northern Europe region that comprises the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. These surnames stemmed from personal characteristics, patronymic influence Nov 11, 2024 · Scandinavian last names often reflect patronymics, occupations, or geographical features. Oct 24, 2021 · Does your last name connect you to a group of people once noted for their fierceness, bravery, and connection to the unearthly and spiritual realm? If so, you may share a last name with the Vikings. Below, our Name List:-gaard Daugaard Ellegaard Ermegaard Hildegaard Irmgaard Lillegaard Mangaard Raadengaard Øllegaard A list of submitted surnames in which the usage is Old Swedish. As these countries have strong cultural and linguistic ties, it is no wonder that they have a lot in common in the surnames too. Jun 24, 2025 · Discover the beauty of Swedish last names! Explore their poetic meanings, rich history, and magical stories in this enchanting guide to Scandinavian heritage. From classic Nordic choices like "Petersen" and "Johansson" to distinctive family names like "Björk" and "Sjöström," this guide offers a diverse range of options for anyone seeking a Scandinavian-inspired last name. Norse names (see Germanic names) are frequently used, though the way they are Swedish surnames are the surnames which are held by individuals hailing from Sweden in Scandinavia and also people within the Swedish diaspora, many of whom live in the north of the American Midwest in states like the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Last names are markers of familial lineage, regional origins, and historical connections, fostering a sense of continuity and identity among Swedes worldwide. Feb 13, 2023 · These last names are of Scandinavian origin and were commonly found among immigrants from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark who settled in the United States during the 1800s. Jun 15, 2025 · Our informative guide to Norwegian last names opens the door to a winter wonderland filled with lush history and familial tradition. They often include words like "son" or "dottir" to show if someone is a son or daughter. Common prefixes such as “son” or “sen” mean “son of,” emphasizing paternal lineage. Find your Scandinavian last name and learn about its meaning & origins! From runes to modern records, we’ve collected common Swedish last names into our comprehensive list curated by theme. The most common Scandinavian last name is . Primary Patronyms As in the other Nordic countries, the use of primary patronyms (and sometimes matronyms) instead of surnames was common in Sweden until hereditary surnames became mandatory in 1901. Or use the Name Finder for an individual selection. Some surnames were adopted from the nicknames of soldiers, while humanist surnames were Nov 15, 2023 · Are you researching your family history? Here is the story of Norway’s most common family names and how they have evolved through recent centuries. Traditions and procedures of last name changes in swedish Nordic Last Names and Meanings Nordic last names often reveal ancestral origins and occupations. If you are looking for Scandinavian last names or surnames for your baby, you are at the right place. Looking for a strong and evocative surname that reflects a connection to Viking heritage? Explore this list of common Scandinavian last names, rich in history and meaning. In the 17th and the 18th centuries, the middle-class families adopted ornamental surnames that consisted of creatively combined elements. In Sweden, surnames have been used since the late Middle Ages, and many of them have a history that can be traced back centuries. Like Finnish and Norwegian last names, Swedish last names are part of the Scandinavian family. These names were used by speakers of Old Norse in Scandinavia and other places that the Norse settled. Feb 1, 2025 · Norwegian last names are deeply connected to the history, geography, and culture of Norway. Explore the origins and meanings of Viking last names, revealing how Norse heritage shaped the surnames of today. Old Swedish surnames of the 15th century had Swedish, Greek, Latin or German origins. List of the most common Danish last names, surnames, and family names with meanings, featuring unique, cute, and rare Danish last names. Many surnames also come from nature, such as Berg (mountain), Lund (grove), and Dal (valley). Aug 16, 2023 · Read on to discover the most common Norwegian last names, how family names were given in Norway throughout history, and what the surnames themselves mean. Swedish last names are integral to individual identity, family heritage, and cultural belonging. Norwegian surnames are a window to this past. Beginning in the aristocracy, the Danish started to take hereditary surnames modelled on the German pattern, often occupational names like Koch = 'cook', Møller = 'miller' or Schmidt May 11, 2023 · Norwegian last names can offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and geography. The ancestors of modern Scandinavians used a patronymic naming system. Patronymic names are extremely popular throughout Scandinavia, with some popular options in Sweden including Johansson, Andersson, Nilsson, Karlsson, and Eriksson. List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'S' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Aug 22, 2022 · The most common Danish surnames today. Discover the legacy these names carry. (previous page) (next page) Scandinavian family name etymology Feb 23, 2021 · Scandinavian surnames can be quickly recognised by their typical sound and appear particularly beautiful and unusual. Family names (surnames) were still used together with primary patronyms (father's name plus an affix denoting relationship), which were used by all Jan 29, 2021 · Swedish family names or patronymic surnames are based on the father’s first name. From Iceland to Scandinavia, Viking last names are infused with mythology, nature, and the May 11, 2025 · Smith is still the most common surname in the United States, with English origins. But where do they actually come from and why are they so easy to categorise? While most surnames in Germany or England are derived from an occupation, Scandinavian surnames have a slightly different origin. Note that Finland is not considered a Scandinavian country so Finnish names are not included in this group of Scandinavian names for boys. Denmark was the first Nordic country to abandon the use of primary patronyms. A list of submitted surnames in which the usage is Old Swedish. See also about Scandinavian names. Here are the Smiths, Johnsons, Williams and Jones of Sweden. However, here are some examples of Viking male and female names with their corresponding patronymic/matronymic forms: Male viking names Ragnar: Ragnarsen Harald: Haraldsen Bjorn Feb 17, 2025 · Icelanders follow the Old Norse tradition when it comes to surnames. German Influence Due to the proximity to Germany, Denmark was influenced by German naming fashions already in the Middle Ages. Most Common Last Names In Sweden Forebears knows about 850,341 unique surnames in Sweden and there are 11 people per name. Aug 27, 2022 · The 100 most common surnames in Sweden as of December 2004. Nobility were the first to take names that would be passed on from one generation to the next. Surnames like “Svensson” signify Swedish roots, while “Johansen” denotes Danish lineage. Danish Names Faroese Names Finnish Names Greenlandic Names Icelandic Names Norwegian Names Sami Names Swedish Names Name Finder Discover the meaning behind the world's greatest names. ” This follows the age-old Scandinavian tradition of patronymic naming, which conveys a lineage or ancestry directly in one’s last name. Explore the cultural significance of Norwegian surnames in our comprehensive guide. The full name consists of one or more given names, followed by a family name or a patronym. Norse last names, hailing from the Viking heritage, tell stories of family, jobs, and where people come from. Initially dominated by English surnames during the colonial era, Australia's naming conventions have evolved with waves of immigration from Europe, Asia, and beyond. For instance, if a man named Lars Jan 5, 2020 · In this MomJunction post, we give you a list of 100 Scandinavian last names or surnames with interesting origins and meanings. Feb 17, 2025 · In the following infographic, we have included a list of Scandinavian surnames and their meanings. List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'T' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Dec 20, 2023 · Check out the top 1,000 last names (surnames) in the United States and their meanings, according to the U. Explore 101 Swedish last names with rich meanings, origins, and cultural depth. Aug 18, 2016 · Further below, lists with the Top 10 most popular first-names in Sweden. Scandinavian Last Names With Meanings 1. (previous page) (next page) Scandinavian family name etymology List of Viking last names that were common in the Viking Age, and surnames for fictional Viking characters in books, novels, and games. Jan 4, 2025 · Curious about Swedish last names? Check out these surnames, from ancient Viking names to modern favorites. These unique surnames reflect the rich history and culture of the Norse people, known for their fearless warriors, incredible seafaring skills, and legendary conquests. Even with the same endings, each name is unique. Viking last names are often found in parts of Scandinavia, where this group of people once roamed hundreds of years prior. Apr 10, 2023 · Viking Last Names Generator It is difficult to provide a complete list of Viking last names as they were not formal surnames but rather patronymics or matronymics. I’ve also included examples of different types of last names, along with which regions they were statistically associated Pages in category "Norwegian-language surnames" The following 200 pages are in this category, out of approximately 936 total. List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'A' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Aug 21, 2024 · Uncover the rich history and meanings of Norse surnames. Browse the most popular Norwegian surnames and Norse names today! Dec 19, 2024 · Discover Finnish last names! From nature-inspired surnames to ancient family traditions, explore what makes these names unique. Sep 1, 2023 · Surnames with Scandinavian origins are widespread. Nordic clan names were used to identify and differentiate various clans and families in ancient Scandinavian society. Is your family name on the list? List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'B' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Feb 19, 2025 · Looking for an alternative dark surname? We list 191 of the greatest dark last names and explain their origins and meanings. Jun 25, 2025 · Explore Finnish last names, their meanings, and origins. Hispanic surnames like Garcia and Rodriguez have become more prevalent, reaching the top 10 list. You will find the genitive forms of Swedish names in Jul 25, 2024 · Explore the origins and meanings of Swedish last names. Old Norse Surnames In Old Norse times, the people in the Nordic countries did not use surnames, only given names and primary patronyms. The nobles were the first to take last names, and the trend spread to artisans, merchants, and Heritable family names were generally adopted rather late within Scandinavia. Swedish last names More than one third of all Swedish surnames end with –sson. A glossary entry on the topic "Scandinavian Names". Apr 7, 2024 · Last names that end in “-ski” or “-son” are common in the state due to the large number of Polish and Scandinavian immigrants. Sometimes the genitive form of the father's name is Jun 15, 2025 · Our guide to Swedish last names has the facts needed to understand their meanings and origins, along with crystal clear pronunciations. The surname Lee, of Asian origin, has entered the top 25, reflecting a growing Asian community. Here’re the common Icelandic last names. There are 689451 people with Scandinavian last names in the USA. The patronymic surname is based on the first name of the father, and it changes based on the generation. Last names ending in “son” or “sen,” in Scandinavian countries, indicate traditional patronymic surnames, meaning they are based on the name of a person’s father. Some of them had a byname as well. Explore popular Norse family names from A to Z and learn about their origins. The majority of Swedes carry surnames that are patronymic, meaning they are derived from the father’s given name with the addition of -son for a son and -dotter for a daughter. Many Norwegian surnames are derived from place names, such as the farm or village where the family originated. For more specific lists, see Swedish names, Danish names and Norwegian names. Mar 22, 2021 · Image: Shutterstock Scandinavia is the European region that encompasses Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Jun 16, 2025 · 250+ Viking Last Names With Meanings Viking surnames encompass patronymic and toponymic names and those tied to nature, animals, war, and deities like Thor. Explore our name lists by country or origin. Explore famous and common Viking last names prevalent in regions affected by Viking influence, including Ireland, Scotland, Shetland, and England. In this MomJunction post, we give you a list of 100 Scandinavian last names or surnames with interesting origins and meanings. Nov 11, 2023 · Swedish last names, also known as family names or surnames, are an important aspect of Swedish culture and genealogy. List of Scandinavian Surnames and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Danish names are used in the country of Denmark in northern Europe. List of the most common Norwegian last names, surnames, and family names with meanings, featuring unique, cute, and badass Norwegian last names. This is a list of surnames in which the origin is Old Norse. Surnames Surnames by country Old Norse Surnames Danish Surnames Faroese Surnames Finnish Surnames Icelandic Surnames Norwegian Surnames Sami Surnames Swedish Surnames Learn more about Nordic surnames Surname Elements Patronyms / Matronyms Farm Names Ornamental Names Nobility Names Soldier Names Humanist Names Dec 21, 2024 · Norse Last Names: Explore the origins, meanings, and fascinating history behind traditional Norse surnames. Oct 14, 2020 · In this post, we have for you a list of popular and interesting Scandinavian last names. Full list of Scandinavian surnames in the USA. Learn about common, rare, and unique Swedish surnames and their historical significance. Our list of common Swedish last names stretches through centuries. Exploring Wisconsin’s last names can provide insight into the state’s history, culture, and people. Discover epic Viking names inspired by warriors, nature, Norse gods, mythology, and more. Jun 15, 2025 · Our helpful guide to traditional and unusual Dutch last names includes meanings, usage, and famous stories of the people who bear them. Johansson 279,858 Andersson 276,865 Karlsson 214,378 Nilsson 186,947 Eriksson 148,880 Larsson 134,660 Olsson 119,771 Persson 116,901 Svensson 112,577 Gustafsson 77,559 Pettersson 70,990 Jonsson 61,776 Jansson 53,809 Hansson 46,877 Bengtsson 36,617 Jönsson 35,862 Petersson 32,892 Primary Patronyms As in the other Nordic countries, the use of primary patronyms (and sometimes matronyms) instead of surnames was common in Norway until hereditary surnames became mandatory in 1923. The Context of Swedish American Surnames Sweden's patronymic naming pattern predates the concept of Sweden itself. Scandinavian Last Names With Meanings Feb 13, 2025 · Full List of Over 800 Scandinavian Names Scandinavian names carry deep historical and cultural significance, often reflecting qualities of strength, wisdom, and nature. Discover the meaning behind the world's greatest names. You will find information about more than 50,000 names, their meanings, origins and usage in the Nordic countries. Stenberg Swedish, Norwegian, Danish Derived from Scandinavian sten (Old Norse steinn) meaning "stone" and berg meaning "mountain". This comprehensive list explores the origins and meanings of popular and less-common Scandinavian surnames. More popular choices such as Stellan and Soren have migrated to the US in recent years, as parents look for new international sources for unusual names with meaning. Later, clergy, artisans and merchants in cities took heritable names. In Norway, you’ll often find last names ending with “-sen. census. The various manners in which we acquired our Swedish-American surnames is a reflection of the inconsistent assimilation of our ancestors into their new world. Apr 22, 2021 · The easiest way to learn about a family ‘s history is to look at their surname. Giving this list a read will help you learn about the cultures and history of the Scandinavians. Pages in category "Danish-language surnames" The following 200 pages are in this category, out of approximately 369 total. Like the strong historical, linguistic, and cultural ties these regions share, Scandinavian surnames also share a lot in common. For more name inspiration take a look at these Nordic girl names and these Norse boy names. They reflect Sweden's rich history, linguistic diversity, and societal values. Discover traditional, unique, and nature-inspired surnames for your family story! Dec 4, 2024 · Discover 33 Irish Viking surnames thousands of years old, tracing Norse influence in Irish culture and their unique Gaelic meanings. Find yours and discover its story! A list of surnames in which the usage is Swedish. In the realm of names, Scandinavian last names stand out with their intriguing origins, diverse patterns, and unique variations. Australian last names represent a blend of diverse cultural influences, reflecting the nation's history of migration and settlement. Whether you’re seeking a powerful name Aug 13, 2025 · Discover beautiful Nordic last names from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Åland with meanings and cultural significance for modern families. Find nature-based names that connect you to Nordic heritage. Apr 14, 2024 · Scandinavian last names have a rich history with many of them originating from Viking, Old Norse, and other cultural influences. This list may not reflect recent changes. (previous page) (next page) Scandinavian family name etymology In fact, nearly one-third of all Swedish last names end in “son,” making them easy to identify, but challenging to differentiate. Find more here. If you even have a passing interest in Norway or Scandinavia, then Sep 29, 2021 · Swedish last names have a beautiful ring all their own. Mar 27, 2024 · Scandinavia or the Nordic region includes multiple countries, histories, & mythologies. However, here are some examples of Viking male and female names with their corresponding patronymic/matronymic forms: Male viking names Ragnar: Ragnarsen Harald: Haraldsen Bjorn Jun 15, 2025 · Our guide to Swedish last names has the facts needed to understand their meanings and origins, along with crystal clear pronunciations. Jul 14, 2024 · Explore the Fascinating World of Viking Last Names Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Viking last names. You can combine these last names with some good Viking names like Arne, Bo, Erik, Gorm and Frodo for memorable character names. The most common Scandinavian last name is Frost. Jan 27, 2025 · Discover Scandinavian last names, their meanings, and cool Viking connections! From '-son' endings to family trees - every name has a story. Toponymic: These Norwegian surnames are more likely to be ornamental and artistic, they refer to places and geographical locations. Below this introductory section is a list of 190 Swedish surnames. May 6, 2024 · Nordic Clan Names Scandinavia is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and one of the most fascinating aspects of this heritage is the tradition of clan names. Jun 10, 2025 · Explore the rich history of Viking last names and their meanings. Dec 7, 2016 · From your Johnsons, to your Olsens, and even your Svenssens, Minnesota would seem to have a run on Scandinavian-sounding last names. This extensive list of over 800 Scandinavian names, along with their meanings, showcases traditional Viking-era names, modern Nordic favorites, and names inspired by Norse mythology. From Scandinavian last names or surnames to those inspired by the Norse mythology names Mar 10, 2025 · Learn more about how Swedish last names work, why they may change over time, and the meanings of Swedish surnames. The vast majority of Swedish last names are patronymic names that have been passed down from generation to generation, but many also refer to a geographical feature that likely show where a family lived. Old Norse was the North Germanic language spoken by the peoples of ancient Scandinavia. Oct 16, 2022 · Learn more examples like this and everything else you need to know about Swedish last names in this compilation of the most popular Swedish last names today, their origins, meanings, and any American versions of the name. These names often carried deep meanings and reflected the values and characteristics of the clans they Jun 10, 2025 · Explore the rich history of Viking last names and their meanings. See European names for a list of the most usual sources of Scandinavian given names. Find out all of the most common Swedish last names, along with more unique variations, right here. List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'K' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'P' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Scandinavian names are used in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and the Faroe Islands. (Source: SCB. Family names (surnames) were still used together with primary patronyms (father's name plus an affix denoting relationship), which were used by all Mar 22, 2021 · Image: Shutterstock Scandinavia is the European region that encompasses Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Mar 3, 2025 · List Of Popular Swedish Surnames Or Last Names Swedish surnames are typically ornamental, derived from paternal names, geographical features, and sometimes, occupations (1). ) Those names are so common that you will probably find at least one of them on every mailboxes in any Swedish apartment building. Pages in category "Swedish-language surnames" The following 200 pages are in this category, out of approximately 783 total. Aaberg A list of surnames in which the usage is Scandinavian (page 2). S. Pages in category "Surnames of Scandinavian origin" The following 75 pages are in this category, out of 75 total. Understanding the meanings and origins of Swedish surnames can help you gain insight into Swedish Jan 26, 2019 · Jensen, Nielsen, Hansen, Pedersen, Andersen, are you one of the millions of people sporting one of these top common last names from Denmark? The following list of the most commonly occurring Danish surnames includes details on each last name's origin and meaning. Similar to other countries in Scandinavia, the most common Norwegian surnames are usually patronymic. These surnames, often rooted in Norse mythology, geography, or personal traits, offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Vikings. Find your Danish last name and learn about its meaning and origins. Jun 9, 2020 · Scandinavian names for boys have their origins in Sweden, Norway, or Denmark. Swedish surnames are the surnames which are held by individuals hailing from Sweden in Scandinavia and also people within the Swedish diaspora, many of whom live in the north of the American Midwest in states like the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Aug 13, 2025 · Find Norwegian last names and learn about their meaning and origins. Feb 24, 2016 · Most common Swedish boys names, Top 100 Most common Swedish girls names, Top 100 Swedish names lists and statistics overview List of 100 Most Common Swedish Surnames The 100 most popular surnames in Sweden according to SCB, Statistiska Central Byrå, (counting day 31 December 2019). Sep 12, 2023 · Swedish last names are unique and have a rich history. Discover the heritage and origins behind Norway last names. May 7, 2020 · Methodists were commonly known by their American names. List of Scandinavian Surnames starting with 'Z' and over 25,000 surnames or family names of different origins, find meaning of surname, surname variants, origin, religion, region of origin, mother tongue and more Mar 11, 2025 · Danish surnames are mostly patronymic but also have roots in other lineages. These surnames offer a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and linguistic heritage of the Scandinavian region, encompassing countries like Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. Dec 4, 2024 · Discover 33 Irish Viking surnames thousands of years old, tracing Norse influence in Irish culture and their unique Gaelic meanings. Dec 27, 2024 · Discover the stories behind Canadian last names! From Indigenous roots to modern trends, explore family names that shaped our nation. Many of last names have roots in patronymic or occupational origins. Browse the most popular Norwegian surnames and Norse names today! Discover the meaning behind the world's greatest names. But what do they mean? Find out all about Scandinavian surnames and and how they work. As a Swedish name it is ornamental. Check out the list of 100 common Danish last names or surnames with meanings. Scandinavian names are used in the Scandinavia region of northern Europe. In this section, we have curated a list of 100 good Scandinavian names for you, divided into four subsections. Before we dive into Norwegian last names, let’s take a look at the languages spoken and written in Norway in which they’re transferred from generation to generation. To create an Norwegian primary patronym, the suffix -sen/-son/-søn (= 'son') or -datter/dotter (= 'daughter') is added to the father's name. To create an Swedish primary patronym, the suffix -son (= 'son') or -dotter (= 'daughter') is added to the genitive form of the father's name. See also about Germanic names. We explain where they come from and what differences there are between Exploring Swedish last names Many of the most common Swedish surnames are Patronymic. Is your family name on the list?. Scandinavian names are used in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and the Faroe Islands.