Jorunn is a feminine Norwegian given name derived from the Old Norse name Jórunnr. The etymology is debated: the first element may come from jǫfurr meaning "wild boar" or figuratively "king" or "chieftain" (as a boar helmet was a symbol of royalty), or from jór meaning "horse". The second element unna means "to love". Thus the name can be interpreted as "loving the boar", "loving the horse", or "beloved king". History The name appears in Old Norse literature, with the variant Jórunnr recorded in runic inscriptions and later in medieval Norwegian sources. The Norse name likely enjoyed some popularity during the Viking Age and persisted into Christian times. In modern Norway, Jorunn has been a common name, particularly in the 20th century, though its usage has declined in recent decades. Notable Bearers Jorunn Hageler (1946–2023), Norwegian politician Jorunn Hareide, Norwegian historian of literature Jorunn Horgen (born 1966), Norwegian windsurfer Jorunn Johnsen (1905–1984), Norwegian journalist Jorunn Kjellsby (born 1944), Norwegian actress Jorunn Økland, Norwegian theologian Jorunn Ringstad (1943–2018), Norwegian politician Jorunn Teigen (born 1961), Norwegian orienteering competitor Jorunn Sundgot-Borgen (born 1961), Norwegian professor of sports medicine Jórunn skáldmær (10th century), Icelandic skald and foster-daughter of Harald I of Norway, composed at least one memorial verse (erfidrápa) for her foster-brother Jórunn Viðar (1918–2017), Icelandic pianist and composer Variants and Related Forms The earlier spelling Jórunnr is the original Old Norse form. In modern Norwegian, the variant Jorun is also used, sometimes spelled with accent or diacritics. The name is primarily found in Norway and among Scandinavian emigrant communities. Meaning: "loving the boar/horse" or "beloved ruler" Origin: Old Norse Type: Feminine given name Usage Regions: Norway, Iceland (Jórunn), less commonly in other Scandinavian countries