Haakon
HAW-KON
Haakon is the Norwegian royal spelling of the ancient Norse name Hakon, meaning high son or chosen son, from the elements ha, meaning high or chosen, and konr, meaning son or descendant. It is the name of the current Crown Prince of Norway, heir to the throne, giving it living royal significance alongside its deep Viking-Age heritage. The double-A spelling is distinctly Norwegian and marks it as an authentic national name.
At a glance
A living Norwegian royal name meaning high son, worn by kings and a crown prince, deeply rooted in Viking heritage.
Etymology & History
From Old Norse Hakon, composed of ha, meaning high or chosen, and konr, meaning son or kinsman. The name was common among Norse royalty and chieftains throughout the medieval period, borne by multiple kings of Norway. The modern Norwegian spelling Haakon with double A reflects the Norwegian convention for a long A vowel, distinguishing it from the older single-A spelling Hakon used in the sagas. The name has been in continuous royal use in Norway for over a millennium.
Cultural Significance
Haakon is one of the most historically significant names in Norwegian culture, borne by at least seven kings of Norway. Haakon the Good, the first Christian king of Norway in the tenth century, attempted to introduce Christianity to the country. Haakon VII led Norway's government in exile during the Second World War and became a national symbol of resistance. The current Crown Prince Haakon maintains the name's royal relevance today. For Norwegian parents, choosing Haakon is an act of cultural pride and historical connection.
Famous people named Haakon
Crown Prince Haakon of Norway
Current Crown Prince of Norway, born 1973, heir apparent to the Norwegian throne and a prominent figure in Scandinavian royal life.
Haakon IV of Norway
King of Norway from 1217 to 1263, who consolidated royal authority and oversaw a golden age of Norwegian medieval culture and literature.
Haakon VII of Norway
First king of independent Norway from 1905 to 1957, celebrated for his resistance to Nazi occupation during the Second World War.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Haakon
Bjorn
“Bear”
Bjorn comes directly from the Old Norse word for bear, one of the most revered animals in Norse mythology. It conveys strength, courage, and a deep connection to nature.
Erling
“Heir of the chieftain”
Erling derives from the Old Norse jarl, meaning earl or chieftain, combined with the suffix indicating descendant or heir. The name thus means son of the earl or heir of the chieftain, marking a boy as nobility-born from birth. Erling Haaland, the Norwegian footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, has propelled the name to international recognition.
Hakon
“High son”
Hakon derives from the Old Norse elements ha, meaning high or chosen, and konr, meaning son or descendant. Multiple Norwegian kings bore this name, most notably Hakon the Good, who is credited with introducing Christianity to Norway. The name suggests noble lineage, destiny, and quiet strength.
Harald
“Army ruler”
Harald is a classic Scandinavian name meaning 'army ruler' or 'commander of the army.' It combines the Old Norse elements for 'army' and 'ruler,' producing a name that has been synonymous with leadership and power across Northern Europe for over a thousand years. Borne by countless kings, warriors, and explorers, Harald is one of the most enduring names in the Norse tradition.
Leif
“Heir, descendant”
Leif comes from the Old Norse word 'leifr', meaning heir or descendant. It carries a sense of legacy and continuation, connecting a child to those who came before.
Magnus
“Great”
Magnus is a Latin word meaning 'great' or 'mighty', adopted enthusiastically by Scandinavian royalty and now embedded deeply in Norse naming tradition.
Olav
“Ancestor's descendant”
Olav is the Norwegian form of Olaf, from the Old Norse elements anu meaning ancestor and leifr meaning descendant or heir. King Olav II Haraldsson, who died at the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030, became Norway's patron saint and is one of the most venerated figures in Norwegian history. The name carries the full weight of Norwegian national identity and Christian heritage.
Sigurd
“Victory guardian”
Sigurd is a powerful Norse name formed from the Old Norse elements sigr (victory) and vardr (guardian). As the name of the greatest hero in Norse mythology, the legendary dragon slayer, it carries an unmistakable sense of courage and triumph. The name has a strong, resonant quality that feels both ancient and enduring.
Where you'll find Haakon
Haakon shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.