Audun is a Norwegian masculine given name, derived from the Old Norse name Auðun. The name Auðun is composed of the elements auðr meaning 'wealth, fortune' and vinr meaning 'friend', so Audun thus carries the meaning of 'wealthy friend' or 'fortunate friend'. The name has been in use in Norway since the Viking Age, with notable early bearers such as the 13th-century nobleman Audun Hugleiksson, who played a significant role in the political landscape of his time. Audun is kin to other names from the same Germanic root, including the Anglo-Saxon Eadwine and its modern English descendants Edwin, Ed, Eddie, and Eddy. Notable Bearers Audun has been borne by several notable Norwegians across various fields. In sports, Audun Boysen (1929–2000) was a middle-distance runner who earned a bronze medal at the 1956 Summer Olympics. Other athletes include cross-country skier Audun Endestad (born 1953), freestyle skier Audun Grønvold (1976–2025), and orienteer Audun Heimdal (1997–2022). In the arts, Audun Hetland (1920–1998) was a well-known illustrator, and Audun Kleive (born 1961) is a drummer and percussionist. Music fans may recognize Audun Laading (1993–2019) as the bassist and backing vocalist for the indie rock duo Her's. In politics, Audun Lysbakken (born 1977) served as leader of the Socialist Left Party, while Audun Østerås (born 1947) and Audun Tron (born 1945) were active in the Centre Party and Norwegian Labour Party, respectively. Cultural Significance While Audun remains primarily a Norwegian name, it has connections to broader onomastic traditions across Germania. The semantic and phonetic affinity with names like Edwin lends it an international familiarity. It also appears in modern culture through adaptations of medieval sagas. During the 20th and early 21st centuries, Audun has enjoyed occasional resurgencence in Norway, but remains less common than, say, Olav or Henrik. The name's recent notability includes business figures and artists, suggesting consistent but niche use. Key Facts Meaning: 'wealthy friend' (auðr 'wealth' + vinr 'friend') Origin: Old Norse, later adopted into Norwegian Type: Given name, masculine Usage regions: Primarily Norway Related names: Auðun (Old Norse), Edwin (English)