Use the result honestly
- This tool maps modern Latin letters and two common digraphs to runes; it does not translate English into Old Norse.
- Elder Futhark is the default because it is easier to use as a modern letter map. Younger Futhark is closer to Viking Age writing, but less 1:1 for modern English.
- For permanent tattoos or engravings, treat the result as a reference and review it with a knowledgeable artist or researcher first.
How to use
Type a name or short phrase. The result updates locally as you type.
Use Elder Futhark for the clearest modern letter mapping, or switch to Younger Futhark for its Viking Age system.
Copy the Unicode result, or click a rune in the chart to copy that one glyph.
What is the runic alphabet?
Runic alphabets are writing systems used across northern Europe before and alongside the Latin alphabet. Elder Futhark has 24 runes; Younger Futhark has 16 and was used during much of the Viking Age.
A modern English name does not have one universally historical runic spelling. The converter makes its letter choices visible and keeps characters it cannot map unchanged.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a translation into Old Norse?
No. It maps Latin letters and the th and ng digraphs to Unicode runes. It does not translate a word’s meaning or produce historical Old Norse spelling.
Should I use Elder or Younger Futhark for a Viking-style tattoo?
Younger Futhark is closer to Viking Age writing, but it has only 16 runes and is less exact for modern English. Elder is the clearer default for a modern name; review any permanent design with a knowledgeable artist or researcher.
Can I write my name in runes?
You can use this as a modern letter-mapping reference. It is not a guarantee of how a historical writer would have spelled your name.
Are the results real Unicode characters I can copy?
Yes. The result and every chart glyph are Unicode Runic characters, not an image or a special font file.
How are th and ng handled?
The converter matches th and ng before single letters. Elder Futhark has dedicated choices for both. Younger Futhark has no dedicated ng rune here, so ng is approximated as n plus k (ᚾᚴ), not as historical orthography.
Why does not every English letter map 1:1 in Younger Futhark?
Younger Futhark has 16 runes and several cover multiple modern Latin sounds. The chart shows these multi-sound mappings rather than pretending they are exact.
Do I need a special font?
Usually no. If you see empty boxes (tofu), the destination lacks a font with Runic coverage; try a font such as Noto Sans Runic or another Runic-capable font.
Can I use this for a tattoo or engraving?
Use it as a reference only. Check the final spelling and rendering in the destination, then review permanent work with a knowledgeable artist or researcher.
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