päänimet

Päänimet is a Finnish term that translates to "head names" or "main names" and refers to the primary or most significant name given to an individual at birth. In Finland, it is customary for individuals to have one or more given names and a surname. The päänimet are the given names. Finnish naming conventions allow for multiple given names, but typically one is considered the päänimi, which is the name most commonly used in everyday life and for official purposes.

Historically, the choice of päänimi was often influenced by family traditions, religious figures, or admired individuals. While traditional names remain popular, modern Finnish society sees a wider range of choices, including newer and internationally influenced names. The legal system in Finland recognizes all given names as part of an individual's official name. However, in practice, the päänimi often functions as the principal identifier.

When referring to someone, Finns will usually use their päänimi. For example, if someone's full name is Matti Juhani Virtanen, Matti would likely be their päänimi. Juhani is a middle name, and Virtanen is the surname. The distinction between a päänimi and subsequent given names is primarily functional rather than legal. The päänimi is the name that appears first in official documents and is used for address unless a different convention is established within the family.