Inga
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Inga
Inga, which has 4 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Scandinavian origin.
Meaning of Inga
Beautiful daughter
Inga is a Scandinavian name derived from the Old Norse name Ingólfr, which is composed of the elements “ing”, meaning “ancestor” or “forefather” and “olfr” meaning “wolf”. It is believed to have originally been an honorific given to a person of remarkable power and strength. Inga is also an ancient Scandinavian goddess associated with fertility and the harvest.
| Meaning | Beautiful daughter |
| Origin | Scandinavian |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #912 in 1914 Rising Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Inga
The name Inga is of Scandinavian origin and is commonly used in countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. It is derived from the Old Norse name Ingiríðr, which itself is a combination of the elements "Ing" and "ríðr". "Ing" is associated with the Norse god Ing, who is considered to be the deity of fertility, virility, and peace. The element "ríðr" means "ride" or "rider".
Inga is a feminine given name that has been in use for centuries. It gained popularity in the early 20th century and has remained relatively common throughout the years. The name reached its peak in popularity during the mid-1940s.
People named Inga are often described as intelligent, independent, and strong-willed. They tend to be natural leaders who possess great charisma and confidence. Inga's are known for their excellent communication skills and have a knack for expressing their ideas and emotions articulately.
Although Inga is predominantly used as a feminine name, it can also be a masculine name in some cultures. In ancient Germanic societies, Inga was a masculine name and was associated with bravery and warrior-like qualities.
As a name, Inga has various notable bearers. In the literary world, Inga is the main character in the iconic children's fantasy novel "Ronja the Robber's Daughter" by Astrid Lindgren. Inga also appears as a character in several other works of fiction.
Inga is a name that exudes strength and individuality. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a timeless choice for parents seeking a name that is both unique and meaningful.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Inga over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Inga.
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