örvar

Örvar is primarily a masculine given name in Icelandic and other North Germanic contexts. It is most famously associated with the legendary Norse hero Örvar Oddr, whose exploits are recounted in the medieval Icelandic saga Örvar-Odds saga. In the saga, Örvar is portrayed as a skilled warrior who travels widely and faces a variety of trials.

The name is of Old Norse origin and is generally linked to elements related to archery or arrows, though the exact linguistic connections are debated among scholars. As a proper name, Örvar is typically treated as a personal identity rather than a common noun, and the modern Icelandic spelling uses the character Ö.

In contemporary use, Örvar remains a recognized historical name within Icelandic onomastics but is uncommon in today’s birth registries. Its presence is mainly felt in literary, historical, and genealogical contexts rather than as a widely used contemporary given name.

See also Örvar Oddr saga, the medieval tale that centers on the eponymous hero.