Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Nisse

      Origin

      Scandinavian (swedish, Danish, Norwegian)

      Meaning

      Derived from Nicholas or Victory

      Variations

      Anisse, Denisse, Dennisse
      The first name Nisse has its roots in Scandinavian cultures, particularly in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. The name is derived from Nicholas, which is of Greek origin, meaning victory of the people (from nikē, meaning victory, and laos, meaning people). In various Nordic countries, Nisse is often regarded as a diminutive or affectionate form of Nicholas, and it carries connotations of both personal warmth and cultural significance.

      Historically, the name Nisse has been associated with traditional folklore, particularly in Scandinavian mythology and customs. Nisse figures prominently in tales as benevolent household spirits, akin to gnomes, who would assist with farm work and protect the home. The character is closely linked with local Christmas traditions, where Nisse would often be depicted as a sprightly figure bringing gifts and good fortune. The name's use in these cultural narratives reflects the broader importance of craftsmanship, community, and familial ties prevalent in historical Scandinavian societies.

      In contemporary settings, Nisse remains a popular choice for boys in Scandinavian countries, maintaining its affectionate and friendly tone. The name has transcended its folklore roots, finding favor in a variety of contexts beyond traditional boundaries. While it continues to connote warmth and synergy, modern iterations of the name can also be found in other cultures, often reflecting a blend of heritage and modern identity. Additionally, Nisse may occasionally appear in popular culture and literature, reinforcing its relevance in today's society.

      Based on our records...

      Nissen

      Nissen

      This is the most common surname associated with Nisse.
      Anna

      Anna

      This is the most common name of those married to a Nisse.
      Karen

      Karen

      This is the most common name for a child of a Nisse.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1900 is when there were the most people born with the first name Nisse.

      Explore the origins of another name.