fredag

Fredag is the name of the day Friday in Norwegian, Danish, and Swedish. In these languages it designates the fifth day of the week in systems where Monday is considered the first day. The term is used in everyday speech, writing, and calendars across the Nordic region.

Etymology and cognates: The word derives from Old Norse and is linked to the names of the goddess Freyja (Freya) or Frigg. The North Germanic form of the day became fredag in Danish and Swedish and fredag in Norwegian. Cognates exist in other Germanic languages, such as Freitag in German and Friday in English, all ultimately tracing to the same pagan tradition of naming days after deities.

Cultural notes: In Sweden, the concept of fredagsmys—a Friday evening of relaxed activities and snacks—has become a well-known cultural practice signaling the start of the weekend. In religious contexts, the day is associated with Good Friday in the Christian liturgical calendar, referred to as Langfredag in Danish and Norwegian or Långfredag in Swedish.

Usage and calendar context: In ISO 8601 systems, Friday is the fifth day of the week; many Nordic calendars follow Monday as the first day. The term fredag/fredag is used in everyday scheduling, media, and public communication, while specific phrases such as “fredag kväll” or “fredagsplaner” describe plans for Friday evening or Friday activities.

See also: Friday (etymology and global cognates), Langfredag, Långfredag, Langfredag (Good Friday).