Odin

Boy Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/ˈoʊdɪn/

Odin: 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".

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Odin, drawn to its Germanic heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives the Old Norse “Óðinn,” from the Proto-Norse “*Wōdin,” meaning “furious, eager, mad (Odin)". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Odin

Quick facts about Odin
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 Odin

Odin is pronounced /ˈoʊdɪn/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Od-in
  2. Say it like: "OOODEEHN"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across norwegian, swedish, and danish speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

norwegianswedishdanish
Frequently Asked Questions About Odin
What does the name Odin mean?
Odin 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 Odin 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, Odin'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 Odin?
Odin has germanic and old norse origins. The name traces back to *Wodanaz / *Wōđanaz > *Wōdin > Óðinn. From its germanic roots, Odin spread to become common in norwegian, swedish, danish. 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 Odin a boy or girl name?
Odin 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, Odin 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 Odin?
Odin is pronounced "/ˈoʊdɪn/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Odin 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 Odin can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Odin?
Odin is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Odin offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Odin'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, Odin holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Odin commonly used?
Odin is common in norwegian and swedish and danish naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Odin found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Odin, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. 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 Odin into their naming traditions. A child named Odin 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, Odin is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Odin?
Odin 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 Odin 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 Odin sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Odin 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.

Similar Names

Explore More Names