Snorre
SNOR-REH
Snorre is a Scandinavian form of the Old Norse name Snorri, derived from a word meaning attack or swift onslaught. The name carries the energy and directness prized in Viking-age culture. Its most celebrated bearer, Snorri Sturluson, was the 13th-century Icelandic historian and poet who composed the Prose Edda and the Heimskringla, two of the most important works preserving Norse mythology and medieval Scandinavian history. Without Snorri Sturluson, much of what the world knows of the Norse gods would have been lost.
At a glance
A distinctive Norse name meaning attack, Snorre is immortalised by Snorri Sturluson, the medieval scholar who preserved Norse mythology for the world.
Etymology & History
Snorre is the Norwegian and Swedish spelling of the Old Norse Snorri. The name is believed to derive from an Old Norse verb related to swift movement or attack. It appears in the medieval Icelandic sagas as a personal name borne by several notable chieftains and scholars. The name belongs to the rich tradition of Old Norse personal names that reflected strength, action, and character rather than abstract virtues.
Cultural Significance
The name Snorre is inseparable from the towering intellectual legacy of Snorri Sturluson. His Prose Edda, written around 1220, is the single most important source for Norse mythology, providing detailed accounts of Odin, Thor, Loki, and the Norse cosmology that has shaped modern fantasy literature, from J.R.R. Tolkien to the Marvel universe. Choosing Snorre today is a profound nod to Norse literary heritage. In Norway and Iceland, the name carries quiet cultural pride.
Famous people named Snorre
Snorri Sturluson
13th-century Icelandic historian, poet, and politician who authored the Prose Edda and Heimskringla, the primary sources for Norse mythology and history
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Snorre
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.
Gunnar
“Bold warrior”
Gunnar combines the Old Norse elements for 'war' and 'warrior,' creating a name that means 'bold warrior' or 'battle-brave,' reflecting the Norse tradition of honouring strength and courage.
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.
Snorri
“Rushing or attacking one”
Snorri derives from the Old Norse verb 'snerra,' meaning to rush, turn, or attack swiftly, suggesting speed and decisive action. The name was common among Viking Age Icelanders and became famous through the scholar Snorri Sturluson.
Torsten
“Thor's stone”
Torsten is composed of 'Thor', the Norse god of thunder and strength, and 'sten' meaning 'stone', giving the compound meaning 'Thor's stone' or 'stone of Thor'. The stone element conveys permanence, solidity, and an enduring quality, suggesting that the bearer is as unyielding as rock and blessed with the power of the thunder god. The name was popular among the Norse warrior class.
Where you'll find Snorre
Snorre shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.