hege

Hege is a feminine given name used primarily in Norway and, to a lesser extent, in other Scandinavian countries. It is a traditional name in Norwegian-speaking communities and has been in regular use since at least the 20th century. The exact origin of Hege is not definitively established; it is generally regarded as a Scandinavian given name that may be linked to older Germanic names such as Hedwig, Hedda, or Helga through historical naming patterns and regional sound changes. Some theories suggest possible connections to meanings related to protection or guardianship, but firm linguistic evidence is limited.

In contemporary usage, Hege remains most common in Norway, where it is widely recognized as a typical female name. Its prevalence outside Norway is comparatively lower, though it appears among people of Norwegian heritage abroad and in diaspora communities.

Variants and related names include Hedvig (Hedwig), Hedda, Helga, and other names of Germanic origin that have influenced Scandinavian naming practices. The form Hege is typically used in everyday life without requiring additional elements such as surnames or titles in most contexts.