Find out how popular the first name Liv has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Liv by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Liv is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 403 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Liv.

The history of the first name Liv

The name Liv is a Scandinavian name with origins dating back to the Viking Age in Northern Europe. It is derived from the Old Norse word "lif," which means "life" or "protection." The name was commonly used in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Liv can be found in the Icelandic Sagas, which are a collection of stories and historical accounts written in the 13th and 14th centuries. These sagas often featured characters with names like Liv, reflecting the cultural significance of the name during that time period.

In Norse mythology, Liv was also the name of one of the goddesses associated with fertility and life-giving powers. This connection further solidified the name's association with vitality and resilience in ancient Scandinavian cultures.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Liv. One example is Liv Arnesen, a Norwegian explorer and guide who was born in 1953. She is known for being the first woman to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in 1994.

Another famous Liv was Liv Ullmann, a renowned Norwegian actress and director born in 1938. She achieved international acclaim for her performances in numerous Ingmar Bergman films, such as "Persona" and "Cries and Whispers," and was nominated for several Academy Awards.

In the literary world, Liv Strömquist is a Swedish writer and illustrator born in 1978. She is best known for her graphic novels and cartoons that explore feminist themes and social commentary.

Liv Signe Navarsete, born in 1958, is a Norwegian politician who served as the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development from 2005 to 2013. She played a significant role in promoting sustainable development and environmental policies during her tenure.

Liv Lindeland, born in 1945, is a Norwegian singer and actress who gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. She represented Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968 and has had a successful career in both music and theater.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who have carried the name Liv, reflecting its enduring presence and cultural significance in Scandinavian countries and beyond.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Liv was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Liv, please contact us.

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