Eigil: 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".
In Germanic tradition, Eigil holds special significance as a masculine name representing 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”). This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Germanic culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Eigil
Quick facts about Eigil
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 Eigil
Eigil is pronounced /ˈeɪ.gɪl/(German)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Eig-il
Say it like: "EIG-IL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Eigil 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.
norwegianswedishdanishfinnishgreenlandic
Frequently Asked Questions About Eigil
What does the name Eigil mean?
Eigil 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 Eigil 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, Eigil'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 Eigil?
Eigil is a germanic name. The name traces back to *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. From its germanic roots, Eigil spread to become common in norwegian, swedish, danish, finnish 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 Eigil a boy or girl name?
Eigil 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, Eigil 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 Eigil?
Eigil is pronounced "/ˈeɪ.gɪl/". This pronunciation follows de language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Eigil 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 Eigil can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Eigil?
Eigil is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Eigil offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Eigil'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, Eigil holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Eigil commonly used?
Eigil spans multiple cultures, including norwegian, swedish, danish, and 2 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Eigil found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Eigil, 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 Eigil into their naming traditions. A child named Eigil 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, Eigil is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Eigil?
Eigil 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 Eigil 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 Eigil sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Eigil 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.