Óðinn

Boy Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/ˈɔːðɪn/

Óðinn: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin)". It derives from the Germanic word "*Wodanaz / *Wōđanaz > *Wōdin > Óðinn".

Óðinn is a masculine name that means "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin)". Its Germanic origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Óðinn

Quick facts about Óðinn
OriginGermanic, Old Norse
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately 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 the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

*Wodanaz / *Wōđanaz > *Wōdin > Óðinn

How to Pronounce Óðinn

Óðinn is pronounced /ˈɔːðɪn/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Óði-nn
  2. Say it like: "AWTHEEHN"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Óðinn is predominantly used in old norse speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

old norse
Frequently Asked Questions About Óðinn
What does the name Óðinn mean?
Óðinn means "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory.". The name comes from *Wodanaz / *Wōđanaz > *Wōdin > Óðinn. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Óðinn for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Óðinn's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like NORSE MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Óðinn?
Óðinn has germanic and old norse origins. The name traces back to *Wodanaz / *Wōđanaz > *Wōdin > Óðinn. The name remains closely tied to old norse naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Óðinn a boy or girl name?
Óðinn 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, Óðinn has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Óðinn?
Óðinn is pronounced "/ˈɔːðɪn/". This pronunciation follows is language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Óðinn is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Óðinn can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Óðinn?
Óðinn is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Óðinn offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Óðinn's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Óðinn holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Óðinn commonly used?
Óðinn is used primarily in old norse naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Óðinn found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Óðinn into their naming traditions. A child named Óðinn 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, Óðinn is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Óðinn?
Óðinn carries associations with NORSE 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 the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin).” Odin is a major god in Norse mythology and the ruler of Asgard. the root is Homologous with the Old English “Wōden,” the Old Saxon “Wôdan” and the Old High German “Wôtan,” which in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic “*Wodanaz” / “*Wōđanaz.” Wōdanaz is associated with poetic or mantic qualities, and his name is connected with the concept of *wōþuz, “furor poeticus” (poetic fury), and is thus the god of poets and seers. He is a shape-changer and healer, and therefore a god of magicians and leeches. He is associated with the Wild Hunt of a dead, and thus a death deity. He is also a god of war and a bringer of victory." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Óðinn 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 Óðinn sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Óðinn often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In old norse 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.

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