Egil: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”)".It derives from the Germanic word "*Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR".
Egil has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Germanic roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Egil
Quick facts about Egil
Origin
Germanic
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
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 Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR
How to Pronounce Egil
Egil is pronounced /ˈeɪɡɪl/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Eg-il
Say it like: "EG-IL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Egil enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including norwegian, swedish, danish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
norwegianswedishdanishfaroesefinnish
Name Relationships
Egil is a variant form of Egill, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Egil means "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz.". The name comes from *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Egil for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Egil's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GERMANIC MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Egil?
Egil is a germanic name. The name traces back to *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. From its germanic roots, Egil spread to become common in norwegian, swedish, danish, faroese and other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Egil developed as a form of Egill, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Egil a boy or girl name?
Egil 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, Egil has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Egil?
Egil is pronounced "/ˈeɪɡɪl/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Egil is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in norwegian, swedish, danish, 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 Egil can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Egil?
Egil is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Egil offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Egil'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 Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Egil holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Egil?
Egil is a form of Egill. Over time, Egill developed into several variations, with Egil 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 Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Egil might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In norwegian and swedish, Egil may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Egil commonly used?
Egil spans multiple cultures, including norwegian, swedish, danish, and 2 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Egil found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Egil, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Egil into their naming traditions. A child named Egil 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, Egil is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Egil?
Egil carries associations with GERMANIC MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Egil originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Egil sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Egil often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In norwegian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.