Scandinavian

noun

Scan·​di·​na·​vian ˌskan-də-ˈnā-vē-ən How to pronounce Scandinavian (audio)
-vyən
1
: the North Germanic languages
2
a
: a native or inhabitant of Scandinavia
b
: a person of Scandinavian descent
Scandinavian adjective

Examples of Scandinavian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are several spas in the area, including The Scandinavian Spa, which features open-air baths with scenic views. — Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026 The fiery Iberian vs the understated Scandinavian. — Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 12 May 2026 Archaeologists recognized the rings as Scandinavian, noting that previous finds typically yielded silver rather than gold. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 10 May 2026 Aurdal was raised in the orbit of Scandinavian’s leading architects and initially intended to follow them—the father of her childhood best friend worked on the 1952 Winter Olympics. — Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for Scandinavian

Word History

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Scandinavian was in 1766

Rhymes for Scandinavian

See All Rhymes for Scandinavian

Browse Nearby Words

Scandinavia
Scandinavian
scandium
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scandinavian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Scandinavian. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Scandinavian

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Scandinavian

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