Ludvig is a masculine given name of Scandinavian origin. It is derived from the Old Norse name Hludvíkr, which consists of two elements: hlúdr meaning "loud" or "renowned," and vík meaning "battle." Therefore, Ludvig can be interpreted to mean "famous in battle."
The name Ludvig has a rich history, particularly among Scandinavian royalty. It was borne by several kings of Denmark and Norway throughout the Middle Ages. One of the most notable figures with this name is Saint Ludvig IX, also known as Louis IX, who was King of France from 1226 to 1270. He was canonized in 1297 for his piety and commitment to justice.
In Sweden, the name has been popular throughout history, often appearing among nobles and members of the royal family. Today, Ludvig is still used as a given name in Scandinavian countries and beyond, albeit somewhat less frequently than it once was. Despite its lesser usage today, Ludvig remains a strong and historic name with a powerful meaning that continues to appeal to parents looking for a name with deep roots and significance.
In English-speaking countries, the name might be more commonly heard as its anglicized form, Ludwig or even Louis. However, the original Scandinavian version, Ludvig, retains a unique character and distinctiveness that sets it apart from these alternatives. It is a name with a long and storied past, one that continues to captivate those seeking a meaningful and historically significant name for their child.
The name Ludvig experienced a brief period of popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. In 1917 and 1918, there were five births each year with the name Ludvig. Then, in 1923, there were six births with this name. This means that between these four years, a total of 16 babies were given the name Ludvig.
While these numbers are relatively low compared to more popular names during this time period, they still indicate a small but consistent trend for the name Ludvig among parents choosing names for their newborn sons.