# Scandinavian

/ˌskændɪˈneɪviən/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scandinavian
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. relating to the region

adjective · CEFR A2

relating to the countries of Northern Europe, especially Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

For teachers: pertaining to Scandinavia, its people, or its culture; usually encompasses Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, and often includes Finland and Iceland in broader contexts.

- The room was decorated in a simple Scandinavian style with lots of light wood.
- Scandinavian design principles often emphasize a harmonious blend of functionality, minimalism, and the use of natural materials to combat long winter nights.

### 2. relating to languages

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

relating to the group of languages that includes Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish.

For teachers: relating to the North Germanic branch of languages, specifically Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Icelandic, and Faroese.

- She is studying Scandinavian languages and can already speak basic Swedish.
- Comparative linguistics reveals significant mutual intelligibility among the mainland Scandinavian languages, though Icelandic remains more conservative in its morphology.

### 3. a person

noun · CEFR A2

a person who comes from a country in Scandinavia.

For teachers: a native or inhabitant of Scandinavia.

- Many Scandinavians enjoy spending time outdoors even during the cold winter months.
- The conference brought together Scandinavians from across the region to discuss shared economic policies and environmental protections.

### 4. chess opening

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a specific way to start a game of chess.

For teachers: a chess opening characterized by the moves 1.e4 d5, also known as the Center Counter Defense.

- He surprised his opponent by playing the Scandinavian in the first round.
- The Scandinavian is considered a provocative opening that immediately challenges the center, often leading to sharp tactical complications early in the game.

## Examples

- I love the clean look of Scandinavian furniture.
- Many Scandinavian countries are famous for their high quality of life and excellent social services.
- The exhibition showcases how Scandinavian design principles of minimalism and functionality influenced global architecture throughout the twentieth century.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.