Oddvar is the modern Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish name derived from the Old Norse Oddvarr, composed of the elements oddr meaning "point of a sword" and varr meaning "aware, cautious" or "watchful." The name thus conveys the warrior-like quality of being sharp (like a sword point) and vigilant. While directly linked to Oddvar, Oddvarr represents the earlier, more archaic spelling and pronunciation used during the Viking Age and medieval Scandinavia.