Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Liv

While we most often think of Liv as a pet form of Olivia/Olive (and it is), the name actually has a completely unrelated etymology. Liv actually comes from the Old Norse language, from “hlíf” meaning “protection, shelter, warmth”. “Liv” is also a contemporary Scandinavian word for “life” in the Danish and Swedish languages. So this minimalist, one-syllable, three-lettered name is packed with meaning. It’s larger than “life”. Liv, like Livia, could also be short for Olivia, a female name derived from the olive tree (which is an emblem of peace). However, we think of Liv as more of a Nordic name as evidenced by the name’s popularity in places like the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden and Norway.

All About the Baby Name – Liv

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME LIV

The number Seven personality is deeply mystical and highly in tune with their spirituality. They operate on a different wavelength than the average joe. Spending time alone comes easily to Sevens, as it gives them time to contemplate philosophical, religious and spiritual ideas in an effort to find "real truth".  Sevens are wise, but often exude mystery as if they are tapped into something the rest of us don't understand. They love the outdoors and are fed by nature. Sevens are constantly seeking to understand human nature, our place in the universe, and the mystery of life in general. This makes them quite artistic and poetic, but they are also keen observers with high intellect - so they are equally scientific-minded. Sevens are charitable and care deeply about the human condition.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME LIV

Remarkably, Liv has spent almost no time on the U.S. Top 1000 list of most popular female names. It only just appeared for the first time in 2011. Especially considering how ϋber-trendy Olivia has become in recent times, one would think Liv might ride that wave a little more successfully. But, no. Liv is quite uncommon as a stand-alone name. Actress Julianne Moore gave the name Liv to her daughter (b. 2002).

Quick Facts

ON LIV

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

English

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

1

RANKING POPULARITY:

927

PRONUNCIATION:

LIV

SIMPLE MEANING:

Protection, life (alternately: Olive)

Characteristics

OF LIV

Mystical

Wise

Eccentric

Intuitive

Imaginative

Philosophical

Solitary

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Liv

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME LIV

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Liv

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME LIV

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Liv


Popular Songs

ON LIV

We cannot find any popular or well-known songs with the name of Liv


Famous People

NAMED LIV

Liv Tyler (actress)
Liv Ullmann (Norwegian actress)

Children of Famous People

NAMED LIV

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Liv

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME LIV

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Liv