Auðun: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend)".It derives from the Germanic word "*audaz *-winiz� / auðr vinr > *Auðvin".
The name Auðun carries a rich history rooted in Germanic culture. Derived from "*audaz *-winiz� / auðr vinr > *Auðvin", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Germanic-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Auðun
Quick facts about Auðun
Origin
Germanic, Old Norse
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*audaz *-winiz� / auðr vinr > *Auðvin
How to Pronounce Auðun
Auðun is pronounced /ˈaʊðʊn/(German)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Auð-un
Say it like: "AOOTHOON"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across icelandic, and old norse speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
icelandicold norse
Name Relationships
Auðun is a variant form of Auðin, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Auðun means "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system.". The name comes from *audaz *-winiz� / auðr vinr > *Auðvin. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Auðun for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Auðun offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Auðun?
Auðun has germanic and old norse origins. The name traces back to *audaz *-winiz� / auðr vinr > *Auðvin. From its germanic roots, Auðun spread to become common in icelandic, old norse. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Auðun developed as a form of Auðin, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Auðun a boy or girl name?
Auðun is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In germanic tradition, Auðun has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Auðun?
Auðun is pronounced "/ˈaʊðʊn/". This pronunciation follows de language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Auðun is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in icelandic, old norse, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Auðun can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Auðun?
Auðun is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Auðun gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Auðun's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Auðun holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Auðun?
Auðun is a form of Auðin. Over time, Auðin developed into several variations, with Auðun emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In germanic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Auðun might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In icelandic and old norse, Auðun may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Auðun commonly used?
Auðun is common in icelandic and old norse naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Auðun found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the reconstructed Old Norse “*Auðvin,” composed of two elements: “auðr” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “vinr” (friend). In turn, the name means “the wealth of friendship.” This form derives from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz *-winiz.” This name also correlates with the name “Odin,” even if considered separately, derives from the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Audun Hugleiksson (Hestakorn) († 1302) was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th-century. He was the king’s right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson. He was seen as a prominent politician and lawman in his time and played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Auðun into their naming traditions. A child named Auðun will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Auðun is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.