Leiv is a Norwegian given name, a spelling variant of Leif. Leif itself derives from the Old Norse name Leifr, which means "descendant" or "heir". The name is deeply linked to Norse exploration, most famously through Leif Eriksson, who is believed to have reached North America around the year 1000.History and DistributionIn Norway, the spelling "Leiv" has been used alongside "Leif," though the latter has been more common historically. The name has been particularly prevalent in rural areas and remains in moderate use today. The Swedish form is Leif, while the Icelandic version is Leifur, with Leifr representing the Old Norse original.Notable BearersSeveral notable Norwegians have borne the name Leiv, spanning various fields:Leiv Amundsen (1898–1987), a philologist and librarian known for his work on ancient Greek texts.Leiv Blakset (1928–2005), a farmer and politician who served in the Norwegian Parliament.Leiv Erdal (1915–2009), a military officer and politician.Leiv Harang (1902–1970), a physicist who contributed to auroral research.Leiv Heggstad (1879–1954), an educator and translator of Old Norse literature.Leiv Kjøllmoen (1930–2015), a politician active in local government.Leiv Kreyberg (1896–1984), a pathologist known for research on tuberculosis.Leiv Lunde (1961–2022), a political scientist and diplomat.Leiv Mjeldheim (1929–2011), a historian specializing in Norwegian political history.Leiv Nergaard (born 1944), a businessperson and former CEO of Norsk Hydro.Leiv Stensland (1934–2020), a politician and government minister.Leiv Kristen Sydnes (born 1948), a chemist and university professor.Leiv Magnus Vidvei (1923–2016), an economist and civil servant.Cultural SignificanceThe name Leiv, like Leif, evokes the Viking Age and the sagas of Norse explorers. It remains a recognized though somewhat uncommon name in Norway, often chosen by families seeking a traditional and distinctly Scandinavian name.Meaning: Descendant, heirOrigin: Old Norse (Leifr)Type: Given name (masculine)Usage Regions: Norway (primary), Sweden (as Leif), Iceland (as Leifur)