Freya: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Freya mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Old Norse: Lady or noble woman
Scandinavian: Goddess of love, beauty, and fertility

Gender: Female

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Freya is pronounced fray-ah

The name Freya is derived from Old Norse mythology, where Freya is the goddess associated with love, beauty, and fertility. In Scandinavian origins, the word Freyja itself means "lady" or "noble woman" and has been gaining popularity for its strong yet feminine sound. Some consider it to be the feminine version of Freyr, who was the goddess' brother.

Girl name variations

Freya in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Freya Mikaelson from The Originals - A powerful witch and member of the Mikaelson family, known for her protective nature and strong magical abilities.
Freya Allan from The Witcher - The actress who plays the character Ciri, known for her destiny to unite the fractured kingdoms.
Freya Crescent from Final Fantasy IX - A Burmecian Dragon Knight who is fiercely loyal and determined.
Freya from God of War - A powerful goddess and former leader of the Vanir, pivotal in the game's storyline.
Freya Wilson from Doctor Who - A student and companion of the Eleventh Doctor.

Popularity of the Name Freya

According to Social Security Administration data, Freya has seen a rise in popularity in recent years. As of 2023, Freya ranked within the top 200 baby names in the United States. Freya is a name of Norse origin, meaning "lady" or "noble woman," and it is well-known for its mythological significance, as Freya was the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility in Norse mythology.

Freya's allure extends beyond mythology; it has been embraced by various cultures and featured in modern media. Notable individuals with the name Freya include British author Freya North and actress Freya Allan, who gained recognition for her role in the Netflix series The Witcher. The name has also appeared in various fictional works, such as the character Freya Mikaelson in the TV series The Originals and Freya Crescent in the video game Final Fantasy IX. This rich cultural tapestry contributes to the name's enduring appeal and growing popularity in the U.S. and worldwide.