Egill: 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".
The name Egill carries a rich history rooted in Germanic culture. Derived from "*Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR", this masculine name embodies the 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”). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Germanic-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Egill
Quick facts about Egill
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 Egill
Egill is pronounced /ˈeɪ.ɡɪl/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Eg-ill
Say it like: "EG-ILL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Egill enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including norwegian, icelandic, old norse, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
norwegianicelandicold norseswedishdanish
Frequently Asked Questions About Egill
What does the name Egill mean?
Egill 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 Egill 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, Egill'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 Egill?
Egill is a germanic name. The name traces back to *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. From its germanic roots, Egill spread to become common in norwegian, icelandic, old norse, swedish 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.
Is Egill a boy or girl name?
Egill 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, Egill 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 Egill?
Egill is pronounced "/ˈeɪ.ɡɪl/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Egill is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in norwegian, 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 Egill can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Egill?
Egill is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Egill offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Egill'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, Egill holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Egill commonly used?
Egill spans multiple cultures, including norwegian, icelandic, old norse, and 2 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Egill found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Egill, 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 Egill into their naming traditions. A child named Egill 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, Egill is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Egill?
Egill 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 Egill 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 Egill sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Egill 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.