Hello OLS Community!
Have you ever wondered why Icelanders don’t use family names like most other countries? Or why everyone from teachers to politicians goes by their first name?
Our newest blog post dives into Iceland’s unique naming traditions, including:
• How patronymics and matronymics work
• Why Icelanders are on a first-name basis with everyone
• The role of the Icelandic Naming Committee (yes, it exists!)
• How you can “translate” your name into an Icelandic version
It’s a great read if you’re curious about Icelandic culture, language, and identity and you might even walk away with a new Icelandic name of your own.
Check it out here: Icelandic Naming Traditions
Let us know in the comments: what would your Icelandic name be?
–
Íris Líf, OLS Community Manager – Icelandic