medelnamn

Medelnamn is a Swedish term that translates to "middle name." In Sweden, it is not traditional to have a middle name in the same way as in many English-speaking countries. Historically, Swedish naming customs focused on the given name and the surname, which was often patronymic (derived from the father's first name).

However, since the mid-20th century, it has become more common for Swedes to adopt middle names. This trend is largely influenced by international naming practices and a desire for more personal or unique name combinations. When a middle name is used, it is typically placed between the given name and the surname.

Swedish law regarding names has evolved to accommodate this. While historically more restrictive, current regulations allow for a wider range of naming choices, including the use of multiple given names, which can function as middle names. The introduction of middle names in Sweden is a relatively recent phenomenon compared to its long-standing tradition of single given names and patronymic surnames. The practice is not universally adopted, and many Swedes still opt for a single given name.