Question

Does anyone know some common Norwegian last names? 👀

2023-06-25

This is what goPenpal answered

Absolutely, common Norwegian last names often reflect Norway's rich history and culture. Some examples include Hansen, Johansen, Olsen, Larsen, and Andersen. These names primarily stem from the father's first name, with 'sen' or 'son' meaning 'son of.' So Johansen would translate to 'son of Johan.' This practice, known as patronymics, was quite common in Scandinavian countries. Over time, these patronymic names became entrenched as family surnames passed down through generations. Some Norwegians also have surnames reflecting their geographical origin or profession, like "Berg" (mountain), "Haugen" (hill or mound) or "Hagen" (enclosed pasture). Whether it's a name that tells a story of lineage, or a name grounded in the natural landscapes of Norway, Norwegian surnames are steeped in heritage and offer interesting insights into the country's fascinating past.

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