Meaning, origin, history
Thorvald is a masculine given name of Scandinavian origin. It is composed of two elements: "Þór" which means "Thor," the Norse god of thunder and lightning; and "valdr" which translates to "ruler" or "power." Therefore, Thorvald can be interpreted as meaning "the ruler of Thor" or "powerful as Thor."
The name Thorvald has a rich history in Scandinavian culture. It was borne by several figures in Norse mythology and early Icelandic literature. One of the most notable bearers of this name is Thorvaldr Tindeyarsson, who appears in the Poetic Edda, a collection of Old Norse poems primarily concerned with Norse mythology and heroic legends. In the saga literature, there are numerous characters named Thorvald, highlighting the popularity of this name during the Viking Age.
Today, Thorvald is still used as a given name in Scandinavia, particularly in Norway and Iceland. While it may not be as widespread as some other Scandinavian names, such as Sven or Bjorn, it remains a distinctive and historically significant choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their son.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Thorvald since 1880
Total births
114
Total since 1880
Peak year
1916
14 births
in 1932
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years