Thorvald is a masculine given name of Scandinavian origin. It is composed of two elements: "Þór" which means "Thor," the Norse god of thunder and lightning; and "valdr" which translates to "ruler" or "power." Therefore, Thorvald can be interpreted as meaning "the ruler of Thor" or "powerful as Thor."
The name Thorvald has a rich history in Scandinavian culture. It was borne by several figures in Norse mythology and early Icelandic literature. One of the most notable bearers of this name is Thorvaldr Tindeyarsson, who appears in the Poetic Edda, a collection of Old Norse poems primarily concerned with Norse mythology and heroic legends. In the saga literature, there are numerous characters named Thorvald, highlighting the popularity of this name during the Viking Age.
Today, Thorvald is still used as a given name in Scandinavia, particularly in Norway and Iceland. While it may not be as widespread as some other Scandinavian names, such as Sven or Bjorn, it remains a distinctive and historically significant choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their son.
Thorvald is a unique and distinctive name that has been used sparingly throughout history in the United States. According to the statistics provided, there were only a handful of babies named Thorvald each year from 1888 to 1932.
The peak years for the name Thorvald were between 1914 and 1920, with the highest number of births occurring in 1916 with 14 babies. This is also the only year during this period where more than ten babies were named Thorvald.
Interestingly, there seems to be a pattern of fluctuation in the number of Thorvalds born each year, with no clear trend towards increase or decrease over time. The total number of births for the name Thorvald from 1888 to 1932 is 114, which demonstrates that while it may not have been a popular choice, it was still used consistently throughout this period.
Overall, these statistics show that Thorvald has been a rare and unusual name in the United States during the early 20th century. However, its unique nature may also contribute to its appeal for those seeking a distinctive and memorable name for their child.