Terhi is a Finnish female given name derived as a short form of Terhenetär, which originates from the Finnish word terhen meaning "mist." In the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, Terhenetär is a mythological figure—a sprite or goddess associated with mist and forests. The name Terhi was first proposed as a given name in the late 19th century during the period of national romanticism, when Finnish names rooted in folklore and nature gained popularity.
Terhi is also connected to the Estonian name Terje 2, its counterpart in Estonian. The name Terhi has been relatively common in Finland, ranking as the 106th most popular female given name and belonging to over 7,000 women, often as a first name though occasionally used as a middle name.
One notable bearer is Terhi Päivärinta (born 1964), a Finnish sailor who competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics. Other notable individuals include the TV presenter and author Terhi Airas-Järventaus. The name's nature-inspired etymology and cultural ties to Finnish mythology make it a distinctive choice among Nordic names.
- Meaning: Mist (from Finnish terhen)
- Origin: Finnish, derived from Terhenetär of the Kalevala
- Type: First name, female
- Usage: Predominantly in Finland
Other Languages & Cultures
Sources: Wiktionary — Terhi