Torill

Torill is a Norwegian feminine given name, a variant of Torhild. It derives from the Old Norse name Þórhildr, which combines the name of the thunder god Thor (Old Norse Þórr) with hildr meaning "battle," hence "Thor's battle." Thus, Torill shares the same etymological roots and storied mythology associated with Thor, the Norse god of thunder, storms, war, and strength, known for his powerful hammer Mjölnir and his prophesied battle with the serpent Jörmungandr at Ragnarök.

Variants and Usage

Torill is one of several Scandinavian forms stemming from the Old Norse Þórhildr. Closely related variants include Toril, Torild, and the more direct Torhild. In other languages and cultures, related forms include Old Norse Þórhildr and Þóra, Icelandic Þórhildur, Danish Thora, and Swedish Tora. The spelling with double 'l' (Torill) is conventional in Norwegian.

Notable Bearers

Several notable Norwegians bear the name Torill (or variant forms). In literature, Torill Brekke (born 1949) is a novelist, and Torill Eide (born 1950) is a children's writer. In sports, Torill Fjeldstad (born 1958) and Toril Førland (born 1954) are alpine skiers, while Thorill Gylder (born 1958) is a racewalker. In politics and law, Torill Eidsheim (born 1970), Torhild Johnsen (born 1934), and Toril Marie Øie (born 1960) have served as politicians and judge, respectively. In academia, Toril Moi (born 1953) is a renowned literature scholar. The name is also borne by Torill Kove (born 1958), a Norwegian-born Canadian animator who won an Academy Award for the short film The Danish Poet.

• Meaning: "Thor's battle" — from Old Norse Þórr (Thor) + hildr (battle).
• Origin: Old Norse via Norwegian.
• Type: Feminine given name, variant of Torhild.
• Usage Regions: Primarily Norway, with limited use in other Scandinavian countries.