Ever dreamed of speaking like a Viking or translating your name into the language of ancient Scandinavia? Learning how to translate into Old Norse opens up a fascinating window into Norse mythology, medieval literature, and Viking culture.
In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of Old Norse, how it differs from modern languages, and how to start translating words, phrases, and names with accuracy using our Viking Translator.
Old Norse was the language spoken by the Norse people (Vikings) from around the 8th to the 14th century in what is now Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland. It is a North Germanic language and the ancestor of modern Icelandic and other Scandinavian tongues.
Old Norse: "Ek em konungr"
Translation: "I am a king"
The language is preserved in runes, sagas, and mythology, such as the famous Prose Edda and Poetic Edda.
Old Norse uses different endings depending on the noun’s role in the sentence. For example, “maðr” (man) becomes “mann” in the accusative case.
When translating names, find their meaning first, then translate that into Old Norse. For example:
For decorative purposes (like tattoos), many people prefer translating into Runes (Elder or Younger Futhark). Note that runes represent sounds, not direct letter-for-letter equivalents.
Don’t know where to start? Try our free Old Norse Translator tool! Just enter an English word or phrase, and get an Old Norse version to use in stories, artwork, or even tattoos. Whether you're creating Viking characters or exploring your heritage, our translator gives you a quick and easy way to connect with the past.
Translating into Old Norse is a rewarding journey into the language of warriors, poets, and gods. While it takes time to master, even learning a few key words can enhance your creative projects, deepen your understanding of Viking culture, and give new meaning to the past.
Start your Old Norse journey today with our Rune Converter — only on NexTranslator.