Norse Mythology: 15 Name Ideas for Your Feline Friend
Jordan Williams
When you bring a new cat into your home, choosing a name can feel overwhelming given the endless options. One approach is to consider the meaning and origin behind a name, and mythology offers a rich source of inspiration. Norse mythology, which originates from Scandinavia in Northern Europe, chronicles the exploits of gods led by Odin, the All-Father, as they engage in conflicts with foes and among themselves. Below are 15 names from these tales that might be a good match for your cat.
How to Choose the Right Name for Your Cat
With so many possibilities, narrowing down the perfect name for your new kitty requires some thought. Exploring the meaning behind words can help, and mythology is an excellent place to find names with depth; from deities to nymphs and even mystical places, myths are full of names with significance.
1. Asgard
Asgard is one of the nine realms in Norse mythology and serves as the dwelling place of Odin and numerous Norse gods. It hovers in the sky, unseen by humans, and is linked to the mortal realm by a rainbow bridge known as Bifrost. This name might suit a cat with silvery or multi-colored fur.
2. Embla
Derived from the Old Norse word for “elm,” this name carries a meaning of uncertainty, so it could be ideal for a more timid cat. In Norse mythology, Embla was the first human woman. She and her husband, Ask, were created by three gods from two trees.
3. Frey and Freya
Frey and Freya are sibling gods in Norse mythology. Frey governs rain, sun, and harvest time. Freya is a goddess associated with love and fertility and is also a skilled magic user. She appreciates the finer things in life; her name might be fitting for a cat with discerning taste as well.
The goddess Freya
4. Gandalf
You might think this name is only for Tolkien wizards, but it actually has its roots in Norse mythology. The name translates to “wand elf” in Old Norse, so it’s no wonder Tolkien adopted it for his novels. This name could be suitable for a wise, strong, or mysterious cat.
5. Hel
Hel is the daughter of the mischievous god Loki. Her name derives from the Norse underworld, also called Hel. In Old Norse, the word means “to conceal.” Hel ruled the underworld she was named after. This name might work for a black cat or one with a darker or more majestic nature.
The goddess Hel
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6. Loki
Loki is the trickster god. He can manipulate almost anything and can even change his own form and gender. Loki loves pranks and will go to elaborate lengths to play jokes on others. Loki can be selfish, but he is also the funniest of the Norse gods. This name could work well for a playful, adventurous, or silly kitty.
7. Mjolnir
Mjolnir (pronounced myawl-nir) is the name of the thunder god Thor’s hammer. Mjolnir is so powerful that it can level mountains to the ground with just one blow. The hammer has a short handle and was made by dwarves. Mjolnir might make a good name for a heavier set or stocky cat because the hammer is so stout and powerful.
8. Odin
Odin was the head of all the Norse gods. The one-eyed god had a pair of ravens that flew all over the world, spying for him. Odin is the god of wisdom, war, and art. He lives in the palace of Valhalla, a place where warriors who fought bravely enough went after they died in battle. Odin could be a good name for a black cat, a brave or wise cat, or an especially good name for a one-eyed cat!
9. Rune
Runes are a set of letters that make up a written language. The earliest runes date back to 150 A.D. Rune could be a good name for most any cat, as most cats are curious, mysterious, and wise.
10. Saga
A saga is a long tale or story, so perhaps this name would be good for a cat with a long “tail.” The name may come from the Old Norse for “seeing one.” Saga was the goddess of history and poetry.
11. Sigurd
Sigurd was a Norse hero who had many adventures. He slew the dragon Fafnir and recovered his hoard of gold. When he tasted the dragon’s blood, Sigurd gained the ability to talk with birds. Sigurd comes from the Old Norse words for “victory” and “guardian.”
This name could be wonderful for a cat who likes to bird watch or likes to go on adventures.
Sigurd is a Nordic hero
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12. Sindri
Sindri may mean either “small” or “sparkling” in Old Norse. In mythology, Sindri was a dwarf who made all sorts of magical creations for the gods. This name might be good for a small cat or one with a lively personality.
13. Thor
Thor is the god of lightning, thunder, storms, and strength. He wields a mighty hammer, Mjolnir, that is perhaps the most famous weapon in Norse mythology. Thor is usually described as having red hair, so this name might be good for a red or russet colored cat. It would also be a great name for a very large and powerful cat.
Thor, God of Thunder
14. Tyr
In Norse mythology, Tyr is a god of law and heroic glory. The god usually appears with only one hand. This name would be wonderful for a cat missing a paw or part of his or her tail or for one that has a very stern temperament.
15. Valkyrie
A Valkyrie is a warrior maiden who looks at mortal battles and chooses from those who die only the bravest to join the gods in the halls of Valhalla. The Valkyrie prepare the gods’ battle forces for the coming of Ragnarok—the end-times battle. These warriors are always brave and stalwart, but they can be loving, too.
This name would be wonderful for a strong female cat who isn’t afraid of anything!
© 2018 Teeuwynn Woodruff
