All about the name

Torstein

Male

« Torstein is a Norwegian name dating back to Old Norse times, derived from "tor" meaning thunder and "steinn" meaning stone, translating to 'Thor's stone', referencing the thunder god Thor. »

#18942 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Torstein is a Norwegian name of Old Norse origin. It is composed of two elements: "tor" meaning "thunder" and "steinn" meaning "stone". Thus, Torstein translates to "Thor's stone", referring to the god Thor in Norse mythology who was associated with thunder and lightning. The name Torstein has a long history in Norway and other Scandinavian countries. It was popular during the Viking Age and was borne by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Torstein Håkensson, a 12th-century Norwegian nobleman who was a contemporary of King Haakon IV. Torstein has been used as a given name in Norway for centuries and remains popular today. It is often shortened to "Tor" or "Stein" and can also be found as the middle name among Norwegian families. Despite its historical significance, Torstein is not extremely common, making it a unique choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name. In terms of popularity, Torstein has fluctuated over time but has remained relatively steady in recent years. According to Statistics Norway, there were 482 individuals named Torstein living in the country as of January 1st, 2020. This places it among the less common names in Norway, adding to its uniqueness and distinctiveness. Overall, Torstein is a strong and meaningful name with deep roots in Norwegian history and culture. Its connection to Norse mythology adds an element of intrigue and mystery, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique and significant name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Torstein since 1880

Total births
11
Total since 1880
Peak year
2014
6 births
in 2016
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
vs previous 5 years