The most used last name in Denmark is Nielsen.
Understanding Common Danish Surnames
Danish surnames frequently originate from patronymic traditions, meaning they are derived from the father's given name. This practice, historically prevalent in Scandinavia, typically involves adding the suffix "-sen" (meaning "son of") to a common male first name. This naming convention has resulted in several surnames being widely shared across the population.
Top Last Names in Denmark
The most common last names in Denmark consistently reflect this patronymic pattern. Here are the most prevalent surnames:
| Rank | Surname | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nielsen | Patronymic |
| 2 | Jensen | Patronymic |
| 3 | Hansen | Patronymic |
| 4 | Andersen | Patronymic |
The surname Nielsen translates directly to "son of Niels," which was a very common given name in Denmark throughout history. Following this pattern, Jensen means "son of Jens," Hansen signifies "son of Hans," and Andersen denotes "son of Anders." The high frequency of these names underscores the enduring influence of historical naming practices in Danish culture. For more information on the origins of these names and other Scandinavian surnames, you can refer to resources on Scandinavian family name etymology.
