Regin is a masculine name of Old German origin, originally a short form of Germanic names beginning with the element regin meaning "advice, counsel, decision" (from Proto-Germanic *raginą). It is directly related to the Frisian name Rein and the Dutch variant Rien. Mythological Significance In Norse mythology, Reginn (often anglicized as Regin or Regan) is a prominent figure. He is a son of Hreiðmarr, brother of Fáfnir and Ótr, and becomes the foster father of the hero Sigurð. Reginn plays a central role in the Völsunga saga and the Poetic Edda. He goads Sigurð into slaying his brother Fáfnir, who guards a vast treasure, by promising the treasure. Reginn forges a sword for Sigurð, but the hero breaks every sword striking an anvil. Sigurð retrieves the broken pieces of his father Sigmund's sword, Gram, and Reginn repairs it. The reforged blade easily splits the anvil and cuts a floating woolen thread in two. With this weapon, Sigurð kills Fáfnir, and at Reginn's instruction, tastes the dragon's heart to gain wisdom. Reginn then plots treachery against Sigurð, but is killed by him. Etymology and Variants The name Regin is the Old High German form corresponding to the Old Norse Reginn. It survives in modern contexts predominantly through the legendary character. The element regin is common in Germanic name formation, appearing in names like Reinhard (brave advice) and Reginhard. Related forms include Frisian Rein and Dutch Rien, which share the same root meaning. Usage and Distribution As a given name, Regin is rare in contemporary use and most often encountered in scholarship or as a revival of the mythological name. It is primarily recorded in Iceland and among Norse reenactment enthusiasts. The anglicized variant Regan is occasionally used for females as well, thanks in part to the Shakespearean character Regan from King Lear. Key Facts Meaning: Advice, counsel, decision Origin: Old German from Proto-Germanic *raginą Type: Short form of compound names or direct name from the Germanic divine element Usage Regions: Primarily medieval Germanic and Norse contexts; modern name in Scandinavia and Iceland Famous Bearer: Reginn, a Norse mythological figure