Odd is a male given name of Old Norse origin, derived from oddr, meaning "point of a sword" or "sharp end of an arrow/edge of a blade". It is the 11th most common male name in Norway, but rarely used outside the Nordic countries. The name reflects the Viking Age tradition of using martial terms as personal names, such as Oddr (its Old Norse form).Etymology and HistoryThe name Odd comes from the Old Norse word oddr, which denotes the piercing end of a weapon, emphasizing strength and sharpness. It was originally a byname or nickname that solidified into a given name. The Icelandic and Faroese counterpart is Oddur. Despite its ancient roots, the name's popularity in modern Norway stems from its strong cultural resonance rather than any saints or dynasties.Notable BearersMany prominent Norwegians bear the name, showcasing its continued use across various fields:Odd Hassel (1897–1981), chemist and Nobel laureate.Odd Nerdrum (born 1944), figurative painter.Odd Iversen (1945–2014), footballer.Odd Nordstoga (born 1972), musician.Odd Aalen (born 1947), statistician.Odd Martinsen (born 1942), cross-country skier.Odd Børre (1939–2022), singer.DistributionAs of the 21st century, Odd remains predominantly Norwegian. It occasionally appears in Sweden and Denmark but is uncommon. The name's concise form and strong meaning appeal to those seeking a direct, traditional name.Key FactsMeaning: Point of a swordOrigin: Old NorseType: First name (masculine)Usage: Primarily Norwegian