Liv is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse elements 'hlíf' meaning "protection" and 'björn' meaning "bear". It was originally a male name, but it has been used more commonly as a female name in recent years.
The name Liv first gained popularity in Norway during the late 19th century. It was inspired by the Viking Age heroine Liv, who is mentioned in several Old Norse poems and sagas. According to legend, Liv was a wise and brave woman who accompanied her husband on his voyages and helped him defeat his enemies.
Today, Liv is a popular name throughout Scandinavia, with thousands of babies being named Liv each year. It has also gained international recognition, with celebrities such as Liv Tyler (daughter of Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler) helping to popularize the name in the United States and other English-speaking countries.
While Liv may have once been considered a masculine name, it is now overwhelmingly associated with females due to its widespread use as a female name. However, some parents still choose Liv as a boy's name, inspired by its strong and protective meaning. Overall, Liv is a unique and powerful name with a rich history that continues to captivate people around the world.
The name Liv experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the past six decades, with a notable spike in recent years. Between 1956 and 1978, the number of annual births named Liv remained relatively low, ranging from 5 to 22. However, beginning in 1979, there was a steady increase in its popularity, reaching over 300 births per year by 2010.
The peak in popularity occurred between 2016 and 2021, with the name Liv reaching an all-time high of 437 births in 2017. This trend has continued into recent years, with over 400 babies named Liv born each year from 2018 to 2021.
Overall, since 1956, there have been a total of 6291 births registered as Liv. Despite its late boom in popularity, the name Liv has established itself as a prominent choice for parents over the past few decades.