Namnet

Namnet is the definite singular form of the noun namn in Swedish and Norwegian Nynorsk, meaning “the name.” It refers to the designation given to a person, place, or thing when that designation is specific or already known in context. In Swedish, namnet is used for a particular name, while the indefinite form is ett namn. In Norwegian Nynorsk, namnet serves the same function for namn; in Bokmål the corresponding definite form is navnet.

Etymology and form: The word derives from the Old Norse nafn and has cognates in other Germanic languages (for example Danish navn). The definite form in Swedish and Norwegian Nynorsk is formed with a postposed suffix, producing namnet or namnet, respectively, from the base namn or navn. This pattern of adding a definite suffix is characteristic of many Scandinavian nouns.

Usage and examples: Namnet appears in sentences that refer to a specific name. Swedish examples include Vad är namnet? and Namnet på staden är Stockholm. Norwegian Nynorsk examples include Kva er namnet? and Namnet på byen er Oslo. The term is commonly used in everyday language, education, and media when distinguishing a particular name from names in general, or when the name has been previously introduced.

See also: Namn, Navn, Onomastics.