Reidar is a Scandinavian name of Norwegian origin. It is composed of two elements: "Ræid" which means "advice" or "counsel," and "ar" which denotes a warrior or army. Thus, the name Reidar translates to "army counselor" or "warrior who gives advice."
The name Reidar has a rich history in Norwegian folklore and literature. In Norse mythology, it is believed that the god Odin would send his spirits, known as valkyries, to choose warriors for Valhalla, the hall of the slain. These warriors were often named after prominent figures or qualities they possessed, such as Reidar, who embodied wisdom and strategic thinking in battle.
One notable historical figure with this name is Reidar Strøm (1865-1943), a Norwegian painter known for his landscapes and genre paintings. His work is considered an important contribution to Norwegian art history, further solidifying the name's association with creativity and artistic prowess.
In modern times, Reidar remains a popular choice among Norwegian parents, often given to boys in honor of family tradition or as a nod to their country's proud history and cultural heritage. Despite its Scandinavian roots, Reidar has also gained recognition globally, appearing on baby name lists around the world due to its unique sound and meaningful origin.
Overall, Reidar is an appealing name that encapsulates wisdom, strength, and cultural pride, making it a fitting choice for parents seeking a distinctive and significant name for their child.
The name Reidar has been present in the United States for at least a century, with the earliest recorded births occurring in the year 1915. During this time, six babies were named Reidar. This number remained relatively consistent over the following years, as there were also five births with this name in both 1919 and 1994. In total, sixteen babies have been named Reidar in the United States since 1915.