Meaning & History
Steingrímr is the Old Norse form of Steingrímur, a masculine name used in medieval Scandinavia and Iceland. The name is compound, derived from steinn meaning "stone" and gríma meaning "mask" or "helmet." Thus, the name's literal meaning is "stone mask" or "stone helmet," which may have symbolized strength or protection.
In Old Norse naming tradition, compound names like Steingrímr were common, often combining elements denoting natural objects or qualities to convey desirable attributes. The element steinn appears in many names from the same cultural sphere, such as Steinarr and Steinþórr, while gríma is less frequent but also found in names like Landgrímr. The name Steingrímr itself is attested in Norse literature and runic inscriptions, though it never reached great popularity. Its modern Icelandic equivalent, Steingrímur, is still used today, notably by the composer Steingrímur Rohloff (born 1946).
- Meaning: Stone mask or helmet
- Origin: Old Norse
- Type: First name
- Usage regions: Old Norse-speaking areas (Scandinavia, Iceland)