All about the name

Lars

Male

« Lars is a Norse name of Old Norse origin, meaning "shore" or "bank," popular among Vikings and common in Scandinavia. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Lars is a Scandinavian name of Norse origin that has been used throughout the region for centuries. It is derived from the Old Norse word "larr," which means "shore" or "bank." The name Lars was particularly popular among the Vikings, who often chose names related to nature and their environment. In Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, Lars has long been a common given name for males. It is often used in combination with other names to create compound names like Lars-Erik or Lars-Olof. In some cases, Lars may also be used as a surname, particularly in Scandinavian countries where patronymic naming practices were once prevalent. Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Lars. One of the most famous is Lars von Trier, a Danish film director known for his avant-garde and controversial films. Another well-known Lars is Lars Sullivan, an American professional wrestler with WWE. Despite its historical popularity in Scandinavia, Lars has not been as widely used outside of this region. However, it can still be found among communities with Scandinavian heritage or those who simply appreciate the name's unique sound and meaning. Overall, Lars remains a distinctive and meaningful name choice for parents looking to honor their Scandinavian roots or simply give their child a strong, nature-inspired name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Lars since 1880

Total births
6,883
Total since 1880
Peak year
2000
127 births
in 2023
66
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-2%
vs previous 5 years