The Meaning of Loki Last Name

With his sly smile and mischievous demeanor, Loki is the embodiment of all that’s good and evil in Norse mythology. The complicated character has become a fan-favorite thanks to Tom Hiddleston’s captivating portrayal of him in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films. While his actions fluctuate between heroic and villainous, his multifaceted nature is what makes him so fascinating.

His name has even filtered down into modern culture, becoming the second most popular Norse first name in Iceland and the seventh most common surname in Sweden. In Norse, the meaning of loki is “to entangle” which seems appropriate considering how often this trickster god manipulates others for his own gain. However, a less popular explanation suggests the name is derived from a Germanic word like Birchte or Perchta which means bright or glorious.

The sleuth-minded god’s real last name is Laufeyson, and the origin of this name is steeped in Norse history and mythology. Laufey is best known for her role as Loki’s mother, and the -son suffix in Norse names typically refers to a male heir.

Laufey’s first name is also Norse and translates to “leafy” or “island of leaves.” This ties into the meaning of loki, as it suggests this daughter of Odin had a lush, green nature.

She’s also associated with the Norse runes for fate and destiny. Laufey also presides over the realms of the dead and may have been a reincarnation of Freya, the goddess of love.