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- Balder
Balder
Fact sheet
- Name
- Balder
- Gender
- Boy name
- Syllables
- 2
The first name Balder has its roots in Norse mythology, where he is revered as the god of light and spring. He is the son of Odin and Frigg. The name can be directly translated as "the strong", "the brave", "the courageous", and "the prince".
What does the name Balder mean?
Balder is a masculine first name that originates from Norse mythology, where he is known as the god of light and spring. He is regarded as the son of Odin and Frigg. The meaning of the name encompasses terms like "the strong", "the brave", "the courageous", and "the prince". Its roots lie in the Old Norse word 'baldr', which stands for "strong", "brave", "dangerous", and "defensive", as well as in the Old Germanic 'balðraz', meaning "brave", "bold", and "defensive". In Germany, the name has been sporadically used since the late 19th century and has been encountered as a given name since the 1960s. Variants include Baldur, Baldar, Baldor, Baldr, and Baldner.
Where does the name Balder come from?
The name Balder has Old Norse origins and means "the strong". It is composed of the Old Norse 'Baldr' for 'the hero', 'the lord', 'the prince', or 'baldr' for 'strong', 'brave', 'dangerous', 'defensive'. Alternatively, the Old Germanic 'balðram', meaning 'the strength', as well as 'balðraz', meaning 'brave', 'bold', and 'defensive', can also be considered as sources. The languages in which the name appears are German and English.
How do you pronounce Balder?
The pronunciation of the name Balder is clear and two-syllable. It is pronounced as "Bal-der" [ˈbaldɐ], with the first syllable being compact and the second sounding open. The 'der' has a soft sound, while the middle syllable conveys stability. This gives the name a Nordic and powerful impression that is simple, steadfast, and distinctive.
Popularity
In Germany, Balder is considered a rare first name and currently ranks 5,840th on the list of the most common male baby names. Its best placement was in 2014 when it ranked 2,646th. Over the past ten years, Balder has been chosen as a first name about 30 times, placing it at 4,803rd during that time. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 4,945th.
Famous people
- Balder Olden (writer)
- Konrad Balder Schäuffelen (German writer)
Frequently asked questions about the name Balder
Where does the name Balder come from?
The name Balder has its roots in Old Norse and is closely associated with Norse mythology. There, he is known as the god of light and spring.
What does the name Balder mean?
Balder means something like 'the strong' and is often associated with qualities such as strength, courage, and bravery. The meaning can be traced back to Old Norse and Old Germanic terms.
How popular is the name Balder?
In Germany, the name Balder has been sporadically used since the late 19th century and has been encountered as a given name since the 1960s.