Meaning, origin, history
Mikkel is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Danish and Norwegian form of Michael. The name Michael itself has Hebrew roots and means "who is like God?" In Denmark and Norway, Mikkel is often used as a nickname for Michael, rather than using the full form of the name.
The use of the name Mikkel can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Scandinavia. It was particularly popular among the Danish and Norwegian nobility during this time. Some notable figures with the name include Mikkel Pedersen Højen, a 16th-century Danish poet, and Mikkel Nissen, a Norwegian sailor who was one of the first people to circumnavigate the globe.
Today, Mikkel remains a popular choice for boys' names in Scandinavia. It is often associated with a strong, independent spirit, reflecting the resilient nature of its Scandinavian roots. Despite its origins, Mikkel has gained popularity beyond Scandinavia in recent years, appearing on baby name lists around the world.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Mikkel since 1880
Total births
852
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
29 births
in 2023
16
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+29%
↗
vs previous 5 years