What does Odin mean and where does it come from?
Odin is a prominent figure in Norse mythology, known as the god of wisdom, poetry, death, divination, and magic. He is also associated with war and the gallows and has various names and aspects in Viking culture. The name has historical roots in Scandinavia and has become increasingly popular in mod
Cultural significance
Odin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Norway-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name refers to the chief god in norse mythology, associated with wisdom, healing, death, knowledge, and war..
Peak popularity
Reached #330 in 2019 — currently #361 in the US.
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Related Reading
Norway-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Odin?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Odin?
Odin works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Odin Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Odin Rose
Floral · soft ending
Odin Claire
French influence · crisp
Odin Jane
Literary · strong
Odin Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Odin right now?
Declining — down 30 spots — currently #361 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #361 | 903 | ▼ down 30 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #331 | 1,022 | ▼ down 4 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #327 | 1,009 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2020 | #332 | 981 | ▲ up 113 · +42% births |
| 2015 | #445 | 689 | ▲ up 411 · +179% births |
| 2010 | #856 | 247 | ▲ up 534 · +131% births |
| 2005 | #1390 | 107 | ▲ up 911 · +155% births |
| 2000 | #2301 | 42 | ▲ up 4139 · +425% births |
| 1995 | #6440 | 8 | ▼ down 1032 · -11% births |
| 1990 | #5408 | 9 | ▼ down 209 · +29% births |
| 1985 | #5199 | 7 | ▼ down 225 |
| 1980 | #4974 | 7 | ▼ down 1280 · -22% births |
| 1975 | #3694 | 9 | ▲ up 186 · +29% births |
| 1970 | #3880 | 7 | ▼ down 550 |
| 1930 | #3330 | 7 | — |
The story of Odin
Odin has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 9,063 total births recorded, Odin remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1326 in 1905 to #361 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Odin in 2019:
Odin by decade
Odin peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 10 | |
| 1910s | 88 | |
| 1920s | 66 | |
| 1930s | 12 | |
| 1940s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 18 | |
| 1970s | 66 | |
| 1980s | 67 | |
| 1990s | 118 | |
| 2000s | 1,208 | |
| 2010s ★ | 6,412 | |
| 2020s | 981 | |
💎With 9,063 total births, Odin is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Odin?
What names sound and feel like Odin?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Odin also consider these
How is Odin written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Odin
What does the name Odin mean?
Odin means "The name refers to the chief god in Norse mythology, associated with wisdom, healing, death, knowledge, and war." — a name rooted in Norway tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Odin?
Odin is currently ranked #361 in the United States as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Odin?
Odin originates from Norway tradition. Norway names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Odin?
Odin is a two-syllable name pronounced OW1 D AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What personality traits are associated with the name Odin?
Studies on name perception suggest that Odin is often associated with strength and reliability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.