Stava: a female name of Old Norse origin meaning "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post)".It derives from the Old Norse word "gautr stafr > Gautstafr".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Stava, drawn to its Old Norse heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post)". 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 Stava
Quick facts about Stava
Origin
Old Norse
Gender
Girl 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 Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
gautr stafr > Gautstafr
How to Pronounce Stava
Stava is pronounced /ˈstæ.və/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Stav-a
Say it like: "STAV-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Stava is predominantly used in swedish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
swedish
Frequently Asked Questions About Stava
What does the name Stava mean?
Stava means "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa.". The name comes from gautr stafr > Gautstafr. This old norse name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Stava for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Stava's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Stava?
Stava is a old norse name. The name traces back to gautr stafr > Gautstafr. The name remains closely tied to swedish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old norse meaning "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Stava a boy or girl name?
Stava is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old norse tradition, Stava has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Stava?
Stava is pronounced "/ˈstæ.və/". This pronunciation follows no language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Stava is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old norse names, listening to a native speaker say Stava can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Stava?
Stava is commonly used as a nickname for Gustava. Being a shortened version of Gustava, Stava offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Gustava go by Stava throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In old norse cultures, using Stava as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Stava as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Stava on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Stava?
Stava is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Stava offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Stava's popularity may vary between old norse communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Stava holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Stava commonly used?
Stava is used primarily in swedish naming traditions. Though old norse in origin, Stava found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from Old Norse “Gautstafr,” composed of two elements: “gautr” (Goth, Geat, from Gautland “Götaland, Gothia in southern Sweden”) plus “stafr” (staff, stick, post). In turn, the name means “staff of the Geats.” This name is carried by eight kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav Vasa and the current king, Carl XVI Gustaf. It is a common name for Swedish monarchs since the reign of Gustav Vasa." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Stava into their naming traditions. A child named Stava 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, Stava is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.