Torsten is a Scandinavian given name derived from the Old Norse name Þórsteinn, which means "Thor's stone." It combines the name of the Norse god Thor, from Proto-Germanic *Þunraz meaning "thunder," with steinn, the Old Norse word for "stone." This compound reflects the ancient Germanic tradition of invoking divine protection through name elements, with the enduring strength of stone symbolizing Thor's mighty power. The name is one of a group of Old Norse names featuring the theonym Thor, such as Þórarin, Þórhall, and Þórkell, though Torsten remains among the few that have survived in modern usage with any frequency.