"high son, chosen son"
Haakon
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A Viking royal name meaning chosen son
Reviewed by the NamingEverything Editorial Team · Updated
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Nicknames
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Meaning & Origin
"noble descendant"
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Browse nicknames →The Story of Haakon
Haakon derives from the Old Norse 'Hákon,' a compound of 'há' (high) and 'konr' (son, descendant, or man of noble birth). The name thus means 'high son' or 'chosen son,' carrying connotations of nobility and distinction. It has been one of the most historically significant names in Norwegian royalty, borne by numerous kings of Norway since the Viking Age.
Haakon remains a firmly Scandinavian name with strong royal associations in Norway. Outside Scandinavia, it is quite rare, making it a distinctive choice for families of Norwegian heritage. In Norway itself, it remains popular due to its connection to the royal family, with Crown Prince Haakon born in 1973.
The name has been borne by at least 7 Norwegian kings, including Haakon the Good (934-961), regarded as one of Norway's greatest medieval rulers. The current Norwegian Crown Prince Haakon Magnus born in 1973 continues this royal tradition, cementing the name as a symbol of Norwegian national identity.
Historical Record
Haakon first appeared in US Social Security records in 1967.
Over 455 babies have been named Haakon in the United States since SSA records began.
Today, Haakon is a hidden gem — rare but distinctive , currently ranked #6,396 for boy names in the US .
Fun Facts
- Haakon VII (1872-1957) led Norway's government-in-exile during WWII and became a symbol of Norwegian resistance to Nazi occupation
- The name has been used by Norwegian kings for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously used royal names
- Crown Prince Haakon of Norway was named after the long royal tradition, ensuring the name remains current
Haakon in Other Languages
Popularity Over Time
Year-by-year popularity data will be available soon.
Famous People Named Haakon
Crown Prince Haakon of Norway
Royalty
1973
Current Crown Prince of Norway and heir apparent to the Norwegian throne
Haakon VII of Norway
Royalty
1872
King of Norway who led the country's resistance to Nazi occupation and became a symbol of Norwegian national identity an...
King of Norway who led the country's resistance to Nazi occupation and became a symbol of Norwegian national identity and courage
Haakon the Good
Royalty
920
King of Norway (934-961) who attempted to introduce Christianity and was known for just rule, celebrated in Norse sagas
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Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #6,396
- Total SSA Count
- 14
- Cultural Origins
- Norwegian Scandinavian Danish Icelandic
- Pronunciation
- Moderate
- Formality
- Formal
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Low
Common Nicknames
Middle Name Ideas
Suggested pairings based on syllable flow and style
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Classic pairing, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, strong style, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, strong style, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, royal style, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, strong style, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-1 syllable flow
Middle Names
Middle Names for Haakon
6 name pairings with syllable flow tips
Sibling Names
Sibling Match
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Same Origin Names (Norwegian)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Haakon
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About the Name Haakon
Haakon is a boy name with Norwegian, Scandinavian, Danish, and Icelandic origins . The name means "high son, chosen son" in Old Norse há + konr .
Haakon is currently ranked #6,396 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Haakon has 2 syllables, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Haakon include Hak and Konny. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
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Sources
- U.S. Social Security Administration — National Baby Names Data (popularity rankings and historical trends)
- Behind the Name (etymology and meaning research)
- NamingEverything editorial research and analysis