Olaf
Meaning of Olaf
With roots reaching back to the Old Norse name Áleifr—literally “heir of the ancestors”—Olaf (OH-lahf) weaves together history and heart in a single, resonant syllable. It evokes Viking kings like the legendary St. Olaf, who helped shape medieval Norway, while also giving a playful nod to the snowman in Frozen, whose sunny spirit defies his frosty exterior. Though you won’t find Olaf topping today’s baby-name charts, its warm vowel sounds and noble meaning ensure it stands out like a bright lantern in a winter night. Parents who choose Olaf are gifting their son a story-rich name—one that feels both sturdy and a little mischievous, ready to carry ancient valor into a world of new adventures.
Pronunciation
Scandinavian
- Pronunced as OH-lahf (/ˈoʊ.lɑf/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Olaf
| Olaf Scholz is a German politician who served as Germany's chancellor from 2021 to 2025. |
| Olaf Haraldsson - Saint Olaf, also known as Olaf the Holy, ruled Norway from 1015 to 1028 and after dying at Stiklestad in 1030 was canonized at Nidaros, inspiring the Christianization of the Norse. |
| William Olaf Stapledon was an English philosopher and science fiction author inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2014. |
| Olaf Karl Tufte is a Norwegian rower, firefighter and farmer who competed in seven Olympics and won two Olympic gold medals. |
| Olaf I of Denmark - Olaf I, known as Olaf Hunger, was king of Denmark from 1086 to 1095 and a son of King Sweyn II. |
| Olaf Pollack is a former German professional cyclist known for sprint racing on the track and road. |
| Olaf II of Denmark - Olaf Hakonsson was a medieval king who ruled Denmark as Oluf II and Norway as Olav IV. |
| Olaf Haraldsson Geirstadalf Digerbein was a reputed son of Norway's King Harald Fairhair and Svanhild Oysteinsdatter. |
| Olaf von Wrangel was a German journalist, broadcaster and politician with the Christian Democratic Union. |
| Olaf Barda was a Norwegian chess player who became Norway's first International Master in 1952. |
| Olaf Henning Thommessen is a Norwegian business leader and politician who served as a deputy representative in Parliament and led SMB Norge. |
| Olaf Poulsen was a celebrated Danish stage actor known for his comic roles, bold personality, and acclaimed performances at the Royal Danish Theatre. |
| Olaf Sletten - Olaf Johannessen was a Norwegian rifle shooter who won two silver medals and one bronze at the 1920 Olympics in Antwerp. |
| Olaf Schubert, born Michael Haubold, is a German comedian and musician. |
| Olaf H. Johnson was an American politician. |
