samuli

Samuli is a masculine given name used in Finland. It is the Finnish form of Samuel, which derives from the Hebrew name Shmuel, commonly interpreted as “God has heard.” As the Finnish language adapted biblical names, Samuli has remained a standard, recognizable name across generations in Finnish-speaking communities.

The name is most commonly given in Finland and is associated with Finnish heritage. It is used for boys from various backgrounds and does not confer any specific regional association within the country. Diminutive forms and variants include Samu, which is often used independently as well; Samuli is sometimes shortened in informal speech to Samu or Sami, though Sami can also be a separate given name in Nordic contexts.

Notable bearers of the name include Samuli Edelmann (born 1968), a Finnish actor and singer known for his work in film, television, and music. While Samuli remains a distinctly Finnish name, it is recognized in Finnish popular culture and literature as a representative example of traditional Finnish male given names.

See also Samuel, the broader form from which Samuli is derived, and Sami/Samu, related diminutives used in Finland and other countries.