Kirsten is a Norwegian version of the name Christine and means “a Christian”. Kirsten and Kristen are often mistaken for the other as both are Scandinavian versions of the name. Kirsten was most popular in the 1990s.
Meaning and Origin of the Name Kirsten:
Kirsten is a Scandinavian name that means “a Christian”. Kirsten is a Norwegian variant of the Latin name Christina. The name can also be interpreted to mean “a follower of Christ”. Christian families will like this name, as it does a great job of representing their faith.
Symbolism of the Name Kirsten:
Kirsten refers to a practitioner of the Christian faith and evokes all of the symbolism of the religion. This includes the cross, but also things like the lion and lamb, chalice, altar, churches, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Nicknames for the Name Kirsten:
Kirsten can be shortened into a variety of nicknames. Which one you pick is ultimately up to your personal preference! We've got plenty of options for you to consider here:
Style of the Name Kirsten:
Traditional
Gender of the Name Kirsten:
Kirsten is a girl's baby name.
Pronunciation of the Name Kirsten:
KEER-stehn (Danish), KHEESH-tehn (Norwegian), KUR-stən (English)
Number of Syllables in the Name Kirsten:
two
Emotion Evoked From the Name Kirsten:
Kirsten evokes feelings of charm and intellect.
Alternative Spellings for the Name Kirsten:
Khirsten, Keersten, Kursten
Popularity of the Name Kirsten:
According to the Social Security Administration, Kirsten is a popular baby girl’s name. Kirsten was in the top 1000 baby names between 1957 and 2012. It peaked at #154 in 1991.
Related Names for the Name Kirsten:
Great Middle Names for the Name Kirsten and Their Meanings:
- Minette (faithful defender)
- Evelyn (desired, water, island)
- Aurora (dawn)
- Muse (an inspiration)
- Ivy (the plant)
- Poppy (red flower)
- Maisie (pearl, bitter, beloved)
- Sadie (princess)
- Harper (harp player)
- Aria (air, song, melody, lion)
Famous People with the Name Kirsten:
- Kirsten Dunst (American actress)
- Kirsten Storms (American actress)
- Kirsten Haglund (Miss America 2008)
- Kirsten Vangsness (American actress)
- Kirsten Painter (American poet and author)
Kirsten in Popular Culture:
- Kirsten Cohen (television, “The O.C.”)
- Kirsten Larson (literature, “American Girl” series)
- Kirsten Bennett (television, “Party of Five”)
- Kirsten Johannsen (literature, “Number The Star” by Lois Lowry)
- Kirsten Greene (literature, “Just Listen” by Sarah Dessen)