From the ice queen of contemporary fairy tales to the frost giants of Norse mythology, the winter season has long been linked to mystical beings and potent symbolism. The name “Isla,” which in Scottish Gaelic means “ice queen,” has become more well-known in recent years. But where did this name come from, and what other names from myth and culture have winter roots?
The polar bear is a revered and respected animal in many cultures, representing power, fortitude, and adaptation in the face of challenging circumstances. The polar bear is revered as a strong spirit animal and a representation of the hunt by the Inuit people of the Arctic. According to Norse mythology, the deity Thor was reported to travel in a chariot drawn by two enormous goats, with one of them being a polar bear. Native American tribes in North America have likewise equated the polar bear with protection and healing.
Bears were also admired and respected in Celtic mythology; they stood for power, bravery, and defense. In titles and personal names, the Celtic term “art,” which means “bear,” was frequently utilized. Examples include “Arthur” or “Artur,” which both mean “bear man.” The goddess Artio, who was revered as a goddess of fertility and animals in ancient Gaul and Germany, was also linked to the bear.
Although Odin, the main Norse god, was not directly related to bears, he was frequently seen wearing a bear hide and was rumored to have the capacity to transform into a bear. The relationship between Odin and bears may have developed as a result of the god’s reputation for wisdom, as many cultures have viewed bears as symbols of wisdom and insight.
There are endless alternatives available for aesthetic names that are influenced by winter and ice. Popular options include “Winter,” a short and elegant name that conjures the beauty and calm of the season, and “Aurora,” which means “dawn” and is connected to the Northern Lights. Other choices come in the forms of “Frost,” “Blizzard,” “Icicle,” and “Crystal,” each of which has a special and alluring aspect.
Finally, despite the fact that the name “Isla” means “ice queen” in Scottish Gaelic, it is only one of the numerous winter-themed names that have captivated our attention over time. Winter has always been connected to strong symbols and mythological beings, from the polar bear of the Arctic to the bear goddesses of Celtic mythology. And there are countless alternatives for parents looking for a lovely and distinctive name for their child.