The name Bjorn is of Old Norse origin, derived from the word "björn" which means "bear" in that language. It was a popular name among the Vikings and other Norse peoples who inhabited Scandinavia and parts of Northern Europe during the Middle Ages.

Bjorn was a common name among the Viking warriors and explorers, and it is believed to have been used as a symbolic name to represent strength, courage, and ferocity, traits associated with the bear. The name can be traced back to ancient Norse mythology, where the bear was revered as a powerful and sacred animal.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Bjorn appears in the Icelandic Sagas, which are medieval literary works that recount the lives and adventures of Norse heroes and kings. The Saga of Bjorn, also known as Bjarnarsaga Hitdælakappa, is a particularly notable example, telling the story of a Norwegian warrior named Bjorn who lived in the 9th century.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Bjorn. One of the most famous was Bjorn Ironside (Old Norse: Björn Járnsíða), a Swedish Viking leader who lived in the 9th century and was renowned for his military exploits and leadership during the Viking Age.

Another prominent figure was Bjorn Haraldsson (Old Norse: Björn Haraldsson), also known as Saint Bjorn, a Norwegian king who ruled from 1035 to 1049. He was known for his efforts to promote Christianity in Norway and for his involvement in the unification of the country.

In the 13th century, Bjorn Kollbeinsson (Old Norse: Björn Kolbeinssonr) was a celebrated Icelandic skald (poet) and chieftain who composed numerous poems and sagas, contributing significantly to the preservation of Old Norse literature.

More recently, Bjorn Borg (born 1956) is a Swedish former professional tennis player who won 11 Grand Slam singles titles and was one of the most dominant players of his era, known for his stoic demeanor and exceptional skill on the court.

Lastly, Bjorn Ulvaeus (born 1945) is a Swedish songwriter and musician, best known as a member of the iconic pop group ABBA, whose hits such as "Dancing Queen" and "Waterloo" have become cultural touchstones.