Slavic pagan female names. Slavic male names: a list of beautiful names for a child and their meanings

My husband and I couldn’t decide what to name our child for a very long time; we finally chose the name only after the birth. But we were sure of one thing - the name would be two-part. After all, these are the names that everyone understands Slavic peoples without translation, they are part of our history and our culture (and not Greek or Roman).
So we named our daughter Miloslava.

A name determines a person's destiny. This is the key to his inner self. After all, it is not without reason that in Rus' a person had two names, one - false, for everyone, and the other - secret, only for the person himself and his very close people. This tradition existed as protection from unkind spirits and unkind people. Often the first Slavic name was deliberately unattractive (Kriv, Nekras, Zloba), for even greater protection from evil ones. After all, without the key to the essence of a person, it is much more difficult to cause evil. The rite of the second naming was performed in adolescence, when the main character traits were formed. The name was given based on these traits.
Slavic names were replete with their diversity; there were groups of names:
1) Names from the animal and flora(Pike, Ruff, Hare, Wolf, Eagle, Nut, Borscht)
2) Names by birth order (Pervusha, Vtorak, Tretyak)
3) Names of gods and goddesses (Lada, Yarilo)
4) Names by human qualities(Brave, Stoyan)
5) And the main group of names is two-basic (Svyatoslav, Dobrozhir, Tihomir, Ratibor, Yaropolk, Gostomysl, Velimudr, Vsevolod, Bogdan, Dobrogneva, Lyubomila, Mirolyub, Svetozar) and their derivatives (Svyatosha, Dobrynya, Tishilo, Ratisha, Putyata, Yarilka , Miloneg).
From the listed names, it is easy to trace the process of creating a derivative name: the second part is cut off from the two-base one and a suffix or ending is added (-neg, -lo, -ta, -tka, -sha, -yata, -nya, -ka).
Example: Svyatoslav: Svyato + sha = Svyatosha.
Of course, the names of people carry a significant part of the culture and traditions of the entire people. In Russia with the advent of Christianity Slavic names almost completely fell into oblivion. There were lists of Slavic names prohibited by the church. Why this happened is not difficult to guess. One part of the names (Lada, Yarilo) were the names of Slavic gods, the owners of the second part were people who, even after the Christianization of Rus', tried to restore the cult and traditions (magi, heroes). Today in Russia only 5% of children are given Slavic names, which certainly impoverishes the already meager Slavic culture.
The purpose of this article is not only to introduce the concept of truly Russian names to the people. An example is the following not uncommon situation: The girl was named Gorislava. Neighbors, surprised unusual name they say: “They couldn’t call me Ira or Katya in Russian” - without comment. The main goal of Satya is to create a global list of Slavic names with an attempt to determine the meanings of the names and comparisons with historical and legendary figures.

LIST OF SLAVIC NAMES
Bazhen is a desired child, desired.
The names also have meaning: Bazhai, Bazhan. From these names arose the surnames: Bazhanov, Bazhenov, Bazhutin.
Bazhena - female uniform named after Bazhen.
Beloslav - From BEL - white, turn white and SLAV - to glorify.
Abbreviated names: Belyay, Belyan. From these names arose the surnames: Belov, Belyshev, Belyaev.
Beloslava is a female form named after Beloslav.
Short name: Beliana
Berimir - caring for the world.
Berislav is the one who takes glory, who cares about glory.
Berislava is the female form of the name Berislav.
Blagoslav - glorifying kindness.
Blagoslava is the female form of the name Blagoslav.
Abbreviated names: Blaga, Blagana, Blagina.
Fornication - dissolute, unlucky.
One of the "negative" names. From this name arose the surname: Bludov. Historical figure: Blud - governor of Yaropolk Svyatoslavich.
Bogdan is a child given by God.
The name also has meaning: Bozhko. From these names arose the surnames: Bogdanin, Bogdanov, Bogdashkin, Bozhkov.
Bogdana is the feminine form of the name Bogdan.
Short name: Bozena.
Bogolyub - one who loves God.
From this name arose the surname: Bogolyubov.
Bogomil - dear to God.
The name also has meaning: Bohumil.
Bozhidar - gifted by God.
Bozhidara is the female form of the name Bozhidar.
Boleslav - illustrious.
Historical figure: Boleslaw I - Polish king.
Boleslava is the female form of the name Boleslav.
Borimir is a peace fighter, a peacemaker.
Borislav is a fighter for glory.
Abbreviated names: Boris, Borya. From these names arose the surnames: Borin, Boriskin, Borisov, Borisikhin, Borichev, Borischev. Historical figure: Boris Vseslavich of Polotsk - Prince of Polotsk, ancestor of the Drutsk princes.
Borislava is the female form of the name Borislav.
Borsch is one of the personified names of the plant world.
Literally translated: Borscht is plant tops. The surname Borshchev came from this name.
Boyan is a storyteller.
The name was formed from the verb: bayat - to speak, tell, sing. The names also have meaning: Baian, Bayan. From these names came the surname: Bayanov. Legendary personality: songwriter - Boyan.
Boyana is the feminine form of the name Boyan.
Bratislav - From BROTHER - to fight and SLAV - to glorify.
Bratislava is the female form of the name Bratislava.
Bronislav is a defender of glory, protecting glory.
The name also has meaning: Branislav. Short name: Armor.
Bronislava is the female form of the name Bronislav.
Bryachislav - from BRYACHA - to rattle and SLAV - to glorify
Historical figure: Bryachislav Izyaslavich - Prince of Polotsk.
Budimir is a peacemaker.
From this name came the surnames: Budilov, Budishchev.
Velimir is a big world.
Velimira is the female form of the name Velimir.
Velimudr - knowledgeable.
Velislav - great glory, most famous.
Velislava is the female form of the name Velislav.
Abbreviated names: Vela, Velika, Wieliczka.
Wenceslaus - dedicator to glory, crowned with glory.
Wenceslaus is the female form of the name Wenceslaus.
Faith is faith, true.
Veselin - cheerful, cheerful.
Veselin is the female form of the name Veselin.
The name also has a meaning: Vesela.
Vladimir is the ruler of the world.
The name also has meaning: Volodymer. From this name came the surnames: Vladimirov, Vladimirsky, Volodimerov, Volodin, Volodichev. Historical figure: Vladimir I Svyatoslavich Red Sun - Prince of Novgorod, Grand Duke Kyiv.
Vladimir is the female form of the name Vladimir.
Vladislav is the owner of glory.
The name also has meaning: Volodislav. Short name: Vlad. Historical figure: Volodislav is the son of Igor Rurikovich.
Vladislava is the female form of the name Vladislav.
Short name: Vlada.
Vojislav is a glorious warrior.
Abbreviated names: Voilo, Warrior. From these names came the surnames: Voeikov, Voinikov, Voinov. Historical figure: Voin Vasilievich - from the family of Yaroslavl princes.
Voislava is the female form of the name Voislav.
Wolf is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Volkov.
Raven is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surnames: Voronikhin, Voronov.
Vorotislav - returning glory.
Vsevolod is the ruler of the people, who owns everything.
From this name came the surnames: Vsevolodov, Vsevolozhsky. Historical figure: Vsevolod I Yaroslavich - Prince of Pereyaslavl, Chernigov, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Vsemil - beloved by everyone.
Vsemil is the feminine form of the name Vsemil.
Vseslav - all-glorifying, famous.
The name also has meaning: Seslav. From this name came the surname: Seslavin.
Historical figure: Vseslav Bryachislavich of Polotsk - Prince of Polotsk, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Vseslav is the female form of the name Vseslav.
Vtorak is the second son in the family.
The names also have meaning: Second, Second. From these names came the surnames: Vtorov, Vtorushin.
Vyacheslav is the most famous, the most glorious.
The name also has meaning: Vatslav, Vysheslav. From these names came the surnames: Vysheslavtsev, Vyacheslavlev, Vyacheslavov. Historical figure: Vyacheslav Vladimirovich - Prince of Smolensk, Turov, Pereyaslav, Vyshgorod, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Vyachko is a legendary personality: Vyachko is the progenitor of the Vyatichi.
Godoslav - The name also has a meaning: Godlav. Historical figure: Godoslav is the prince of the Bodriči-Rarrogs.
Goluba is meek.
From this name came the surnames: Golubin, Golubushkin
Gorazd - skillful, capable.
The surname Gorazdov came from this name.
Gorislav is fiery, burning in glory.
Gorislava is the female form of the name Gorislav.
Gorynya - like a mountain, huge, indestructible.
Legendary personality: hero - Gorynya.
Gostemil - dear to another (guest).
From this name came the surname: Gostemilov.
Gostomysl - thinking about another (guest).
Historical figure: Gostomysl - Prince of Novgorod.
Gradimir - guardian of peace.
Gradislav - guardian of glory.
Gradislava is the female form of the name Gradislav.
Granislav - improver of glory.
Granislava is the female form of the name Granislav.
Gremislav - famous.
Gudislav is a renowned musician, trumpeting glory.
Short name: Gudim. From these names came the surname: Gudimov.
Daren - gifted.
Darena is the feminine form of the name Daren.
The names also have meaning: Darina, Dara.
Nine is the ninth son in the family.
From this name came the surnames: Devyatkin, Devyatkov, Devyatov.
Dobrogneva
Dobrolyub - kind and loving.
From this name came the surname: Dobrolyubov.
Dobromil is kind and sweet.
Dobromila is the feminine form of the name Dobromil.
Dobromir is kind and peaceful.
Abbreviated names: Dobrynya, Dobrysha. From these names came the surnames: Dobrynin, Dobryshin. Legendary personality: hero - Dobrynya.
Dobromira is the female form of the name Dobromir.
Dobromysl is kind and reasonable.
From this name came the surname: Dobromyslov.
Dobroslav - glorifying kindness.
Dobroslava is the female form of the name Dobroslav.
Dobrozhir
Domazhir -
Domaslav - glorifying relatives.
Short name: Domash - our own, dear. From this name came the surname: Domashov.
Dragomir is more valuable than the world.
Dragomir is the female form of the name Dragomir.
Dubynya - like an oak, indestructible.
Legendary personality: hero - Dubynya.
Druzhina is a comrade.
It also matters common noun: Friend. From these names came the surnames: Druzhinin, Drugov, Drunin.
Ruff -
one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Ershov.
Lark is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Zhavoronkov.
Zhdan is a long-awaited child.
From this name came the surname: Zhdanov.
Zhdana is the female form of the name Zhdan.
Zhiznomir - living in the world.
Zhirovit
Zhiroslav
Hare is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Zaitsev.
Zvenislava - announcer of glory.
Winter is harsh, merciless.
From this name came the surname: Zimin. Legendary personality: Ataman Winter from Razin’s army.
Zlatomir is a golden world.
Zlatotsveta - golden-flowered.
Short name: Zlata.
Anger is one of the "negative" names.
From this name came the surnames: Zlobin, Zlovidov, Zlydnev.
Izbygnev
Izyaslav - the one who took glory.
Historical figure: Izyaslav Vladimirovich - Prince of Polotsk, ancestor of the Polotsk princes.
Sincere - sincere.
The name also has meaning: Iskra.
Iskra is the feminine form of the name Iskren.
Istislav - glorifying the truth.
Exhaustion - languid (possibly associated with difficult childbirth).
From this name came the surnames: Istomin, Istomov.
Casimir - showing the world.
Kazimir - the female form of the name Kazimir.
Koschey is thin and bony.
From this name came the surnames: Koshcheev, Kashchenko.
Krasimir - beautiful and peaceful
Krasimira is the female form of the name Krasimir.
Short name: Krasa.
Kriv is one of the "negative" names.
From this name came the surname: Krivov.
Lada - beloved, dear.
The name of the Slavic Goddess of love, beauty and marriage.
Ladimir - one who gets along with the world.
Ladislav - praising Lada (love).
Swan is a personified name for the animal world.
The name also has meaning: Lybid. From this name came the surname Lebedev. Legendary personality: Lybid is the sister of the founders of the city of Kyiv.
Ludislav
Luchezar - a ray of light.
We love - beloved.
From this name came the surname: Lyubimov.
Love is beloved.
The name also has meaning: Lyubava. From these names came the surnames: Lyubavin, Lyubimtsev, Lyubavin, Lyubin, Lyubushin, Lyubimin.
Lyubomila - beloved, dear.
Lubomir - loving world.
Lyubomir is the feminine form of the name Lyubomir.
Inquisitive - someone who loves to think.
Luboslav - lover of glory.
Lyudmil is nice to people.
Lyudmila is the female form of the name Lyudmil.
Historical figure: Lyudmila - Czech princess.
Mal - small, junior.
The name also has a meaning: Small, Mladen. From these names came the surnames: Maleev, Malenkov, Maltsov, Malyshev. Historical figure: Mal - the Drevlyan prince.
Malusha is the female form of the name Mal.
The name also has meaning: Mlada. From these names came the surname: Malushin. Historical figure: Malusha is the wife of Syatoslav Igorevich, the mother of Vladimir Svyatoslavich.
Mieczysław - glorifying sword.
Milan is cute.
The name also has meaning: Milen. From these names came the surnames: Milanov, Milenov.
Milana is the female form of the name Milan.
The names also have meaning: Milava, Milada, Milena, Militsa, Umila. From these names came the surname: Milavin. Historical figure: Umila - daughter of Gostomysl.
Milovan - affectionate, caring.
Milorad is sweet and joyful.
From this name came the surname: Miloradovich.
Miloslav - glorifying mercy.
Short name: Miloneg.
Miloslava is the female form of the name Miloslav.
Peaceful - peace-loving.
From this name came the surname: Mirolyubov.
Miroslav - glorifying the world.
Miroslava is the female form of the name Miroslav.
Molchan - taciturn, silent.
From this name came the surname: Molchanov.
Mstislav - glorifying revenge.
Historical figure: Mstislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Tmutorakan, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Mstislava is the female form of the name Mstislav.
Hope is hope.
The name also has meaning: Nadezhda.
Nevzor is one of the “negative” names.
The surname Nevzorov comes from this name.
Nekras is one of the “negative” names.
From this name came the surname: Nekrasov.
Nekrasa is the female form of the name Nekras.
Eagle is one of the personified names of the animal world.
From this name came the surname: Orlov.
Osmoy is the eighth child in the family.
The name also has meaning: Osmusha. From these names came the surnames: Osmanov, Osmerkin, Osmov.
Ostromir
Peredslava - The name Predslava also has meaning. Historical figure: Predslava - wife of Svyatoslav Igorevich, mother of Yaropolk Svyatoslavich.
Overexposure - very light.
Historical figure: Peresvet - warrior of the Battle of Kulikovo.
Putimir - reasonable and peaceful
Putislav - glorifying intelligently.
The name also has meaning: Putyata. From these names came the surnames: Putilov, Putilin, Putin, Putyatin. Historical figure: Putyata - Kyiv governor.
Radiohost - caring about another (guest).
Radimir is someone who cares about the world.
The name also has meaning: Radomir. Short name: Radim. From these names came the surnames: Radilov, Radimov, Radishchev. Legendary personality: Radim - the progenitor of the Radimichi.
Radimir is the female form of the name Radimir.
The name also has meaning: Radomira.
Radislav - one who cares about fame.
The name also has meaning: Radoslav.
Radislava is the female form of the name Radislav.
Radmila is caring and sweet.
Radosveta - sanctifying joy.
Joy - joy, happiness.
The name also has meaning: Rada.
Reasonable - reasonable, reasonable.
From this name came the surname: Razin. Historical figure: Razumnik - student of Cyril and Methodius.
Ratibor is a defender.
Ratmir is the defender of peace.
Rodislav - glorifying family.
Rostislav - growing fame
Historical figure: Rostislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Rostov, Vladimir-Volynsky; Tmutarakansky; The ancestor of the princes of Galicia and Volyn.
Rostislava is the female form of the name Rostislav.
Sbyslava
Svetislav - glorifying light.
The name also has meaning: Svetoslav.
Svetislava is the female form of the name Svetislav.
Svetlana is bright, pure in soul.
Svetlana is the female form of the name Svetlana.
Svetovid - seeing the light, perspicacious.
The name also has meaning: Sventovid. The name of the Western Slavic God.
Svetozar - illuminating with light.
Svetozar is the female form of the name Svetozar.
The name also has meaning: Svetlozara.
Svyatogor - indestructible holiness.
Legendary personality: Svyatogor is an epic hero.
Svyatopolk is the leader of the sacred army.
Historical figure: Svyatopolk I Yaropolkovich - Grand Duke of Kiev.
Svyatoslav - sacred glory.
Short name: Saint. Historical figure: Svyatoslav I Igorevich - Prince of Novgorod and Grand Duke of Kiev.
Svyatoslav is the female form of the name Svyatoslav.
Slavomir is a peace-glorifying person.
Nightingale is a personified name for the animal world.
From this name came the surnames: Solovey, Soloviev. Legendary personality: Nightingale Budimirovich - a hero from epics.
Catfish is the personified name of the animal world.
Snezhana is white-haired and cold.
Stanimir - establisher of peace.
Stanimira is the female form of the name Stanimir.
Stanislav - establisher of glory.
From this name came the surname: Stanishchev. Historical figure: Stanislav Vladimirovich - Prince of Smolensk.
Stanislava is the female form of the name Stanislav.
Stoyan - strong, unbending.
Sudimir
Sudislav
Tverdimir - from TVERD - solid and MIR - peaceful, peace.
Tverdislav - from TVERD - solid and SLAV - to glorify.
From this name came the surnames: Tverdilov, Tverdislavov, Tverdislavlev.
Tvorimir - the creator of the world.
Tihomir is quiet and peaceful.
From this name came the surname: Tikhomirov.
Tikhomira is the female form of the name Tihomir.
Tur is the personified name of the animal world.
Legendary personality: Tur - founder of the city of Turov.
Brave - brave.
Caslav - aspiring to glory.
Chaslava is the female form of the name Chaslav.
The name also has meaning: Cheslava.
Chernava - dark-haired, dark-skinned
The name also has meaning: Chernavka. From these names came the surnames: Chernavin, Chernavkin.
Pike is the personified name of the animal world.
Yarilo is the sun.
Yarilo - God of fruits in the form of the sun. From this name came the surname: Yarilin.
Jaromir is a sunny world.
Yaropolk - leader of the solar army.
Historical figure: Yaropolk I Svyatoslavich - Grand Duke of Kiev.
Yaroslav - glorifying Yarila.
From this name came the surname: Yaroslavov. Historical figure: Yaroslav I Vladimirovich - Prince of Rostov, Prince of Novgorod, Grand Duke of Kiev.
Yaroslava is the female form of the name Yaroslav.

Ancient Slavic female names.

Bazhena is the female form of the name Bazhen.
Belogora - enlightened.
Beloslava is a female form named after Beloslav.
Berislava is the female form of the name Berislav.
Blagoslava is the female form of the name Blagoslav.

Bogdana is the feminine form of the name Bogdan.
Bogumila - dear to the Gods.
Boleslava is the female form of the name Boleslav.
Borislava is the female form of the name Borislav.
Boyana is the feminine form of the name Boyan.

Bratislava is the female form of the name Bratislava.
Bronislava is the female form of the name Bronislav.
Vedana (Vedeneya, Vedenya) - knowledgeable.
Vedislava - glorifying knowledge.
Velizhana is polite, pacifying her feelings.

Velizara - multi-light, illuminated.
Velimira is the female form of the name Velimir.
Velislava is the female form of the name Velislav.
Wenceslaus is the female form of the name Wenceslaus.
Faith is faith, true.

Veselina (Vesela) is the female form of the name Veselin.
Vladimir is the female form of the name Vladimir.
Vladislava is the female form of the name Vladislav.
Voislava is the female form of the name Voislav.
Omniscient - omniscient.

Vsemil is the feminine form of the name Vsemil.
Vseslav is the female form of the name Vseslav.
Goluba is meek.
Gorislava is the female form of the name Gorislav.
Gradislava is the female form of the name Gradislav.

Granislava is the female form of the name Granislav.
Darena (Darina, Dara) is the female form of the name Daren.
Dzvenislava - glorified.
Dobrovlada - possessing kindness.
Dobrogora - exalting good.

Dobrolyuba - loving goodness.
Dobromila is the feminine form of the name Dobromil.
Dobromira is the female form of the name Dobromir.
Dobroslava is the female form of the name Dobroslav.
Dragomir is the female form of the name Dragomir.

Zhdana is the female form of the name Zhdan.
Zhivoroda is the priestess of Zhiva.
Zvenislava - proclaiming glory; glorifying.
Zlatotsveta (Zlata) - golden-flowered.
Zoremira - illuminating, enlightening the world.

Iskra is the feminine form of the name Iskren.
Kazimir - the female form of the name Kazimir.
Krasimira is the female form of the name Krasimir.
Lada - beloved, dear. Goddess of love, mother of the Gods.
Ladomila - dear to the goddess Lada, merciful.

Ladomira is the female form of the name Ladomir.
Ladoslava - glorifying Lada.
Luchezara - radiant, illuminating with light.
Lyubava (Love) - beloved.
Lyubomila - beloved, dear.

Lyubomir is the feminine form of the name Lyubomir.
Lyuboyara - loving Yarila.
Lyudmila is the female form of the name Lyudmil.
Ludomira - reconciler of people.
Milada - dear to the goddess Lada.

Milana (Milena) is the female form of the name Milan.
Miloslava is the female form of the name Miloslav.
Miroslava is the female form of the name Miroslav.
Mstislava is the female form of the name Mstislav.
Hope is hope.

Nekrasa is the female form of the name Nekras.
Ogneslava - glorifying Fire.
Ogneyara is the female form of the name Ogneyar.
Peredslava (Predslava) – preceding glory. Historical figure: Predslava - wife of Svyatoslav Igorevich, mother of Yaropolk Svyatoslavich.

Peresvet is the female form of the name Peresvet.
Radmila - pleasing with sunny mercy.
Radimir is the female form of the name Radimir.
Radislava is the female form of the name Radislav.
Radmila is caring and sweet.

Radosveta - sanctifying joy.
Joy (Rada) - joy, happiness, sunny.
Rostislava is the female form of the name Rostislav.
Svetislava is the female form of the name Svetislav.
Svetlana is the female form of the name Svetlana.

Svetozara (Svetozara) is the female form of the name Svetozar.
Svetogor is the female form of the name Svetogor.
Svetoyara - sunny.
Snezhana is white-haired and cold.
Stanimira is the female form of the name Stanimir.

Stanislava is the female form of the name Stanislav.
Tikhomira is the female form of the name Tihomir.
Chaslava (Cheslava) is the female form of the name Chaslav.
Chernava - dark-haired, dark-skinned; avesha mara.
Pike is the personified name of the animal world. The earthly incarnation of the ROD.

Jaromila - dear Yarile.
Yaroslava - female form named after Yaroslav

In our century, educated parents are paying more and more attention to Old Church Slavonic names, giving them to their children. Thus, they return to the original Russian traditions that have existed in Rus' since ancient times in naming.

Old names in new times

New sound in modern world acquire the names Vsevolod and Milana, Mstislav and Darina. Such a keen interest of modern residents in rare, long-unused ancient Slavic names is not surprising. When looking for a name for their child, parents strive to make it original and unusual. In addition, they want the baby’s name to be sonorous and poetic. In addition to the above, modern parents do not forget about the content and semantics of the name.

The Slavs used to give their children names with meaning. At the same time, the name must have only positive energy. Ancient Slavic names meet all these requirements. Russian people intuitively understand their meaning, and the beauty with which they sound will not leave anyone indifferent. Ancient Slavic names (male and female) today are considered by many parents as best names for your children.

Double naming

A name determines a person's destiny. It serves as the key to his inner world. Ancients Slavic tribes adhered to the tradition of double naming, which was based on the belief in the mystical connection between the name and the person to whom it was given. It is no coincidence that in Rus' a person had two names: one was false - for everyone, and the other secret - for himself and his closest friends. Names were supposed to serve as protection from evil spirits and bad people. Often the first false Slavic name was given to those who were purposefully unattractive (Zloba, Kriv, Byaka, Nekras, Likho).

It was believed that a name is the key to a person, and without knowing the essence of an individual, it is much more difficult to harm him. The ritual of secondary naming was performed upon reaching adolescence, when all the main character traits had already been formed, and it was already possible to judge which of them had become predominant. Based on these traits, the name was given.

The meaning of ancient Slavic names

Let's analyze ancient Slavic names and their meanings.

According to its meaning Old Slavonic names conditionally divided into several groups:

Names that repeat names various representatives flora and fauna (Raven, Eagle, Walnut). These days such names are not used.
Old Slavonic names reflecting various traits of human character. For example, Veselin can mean “cheerful”, and the name Khrabr means “courageous”; Dobrolyub means “loving and kind.” In the modern world, the names of this group have become widespread.
Names relating to various mythical characters. These were mainly the names of the ancients Slavic deities. So, Lada is the Slavic goddess of love, Yarilo is Slavic god sun.
Interesting ancient Slavic names indicating the order in which a child was born in the family. The logic was completely simple. The first son received the name Pervush, the second son was called Vtorak, the third - Tretyak, and so on.

For a more detailed study of Slavic names and their meanings, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following lists.

Men's names

Ancient Slavic names of boys and their meaning:

Bajan. It means "desired child."
Belogov. It means "enlightened".
Borislav. It is believed that this is interpreted as "fighting for glory."
Vsevolod. The interpretation of this name is “knowing everything.”
Radiant. Means “radiant, luminous.”
Radimir. The meaning of the name is “rejoicing in the world, caring for the world.”
Svyatopolk. This means “commands the holy regiment.”
Trojan. The meaning is "third".
Chedomir. Derived from two words: “peace” and “child”.
Yarema. Explained as “bearing a yoke.”

Women's names

Ancient Slavic female names and their meanings:

Bogdana means “given by God himself”;
Faith. It means “keeping faithful”;
Dalina. Means "far";
Christmas tree. The name comes from the name of the tree - spruce;
Zlata. Interpreted as “gold-colored”;
Lana. Means "sweetheart";
Lyubina. It is derived from the word “love”;
Milada. Interpreted as “sweetheart”;
Stanislava. The meaning is "holy glory";
Yuna. Derived from the word “young”.

Two-basic Slavic names and their meaning

One of the largest groups of Slavic names are names with two stems. Until the era of Christianity began, the names of this group were most widespread.

Many names used by the Slavs are composed of 2 basics. For example, the name Lubomir is considered to be a derivative of two words - “to love” and “peace”, and Boguslav is a derivative of “glory” and “god”. It sounds very beautiful and at the same time the name has absolutely clear meaning. It is thanks to this that Slavic names have received a second life in our time, becoming very popular among their contemporaries. Most often, these names are given to children born in Poland, Ukraine, Serbia, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic.

These names are divided into two subgroups. The main group includes two-basic names (Tikhomir, Svyatoslav, Ratibor, Dobrozhir, Gostomysl, Yaropolk, Velimudr, Vsevolod, Bogdan, Lyubomila, Dobrogneva), and the second group contains names that are derived from the names of the main group (Dobrynya, Svyatosha, Ratisha, Tishilo , Yarilka, Putyata, Miloneg).

History of Slavic names

Without a doubt, a significant part is connected with the names of people cultural life and formation folk traditions. In Russia, with the advent of Christianity, ancient Slavic names were almost completely forgotten. There were even lists of ancient Slavic names that were prohibited Christian Church. It is quite easy to guess the reasons for what is happening. Some of the names (Yarilo, Lada) were the names of ancient Slavic gods. Some of them formed a group of people who, after the baptism of Rus', tried to promote the restoration of the Old Slavonic cult and traditions.

Today in Russia Slavic names are not in fashion. They are called only 5% of babies born. This makes Russian culture poorer. Although ancient Slavic names (male) are undoubtedly truly Russian.

Propaganda of Slavic names is of great importance. People are trying to preserve ancient Slavic female names, full list which can be found in special publications.

Some of the names are very popular. Let's talk about two of them.

The meaning of the name Bogdan

Bogdan often becomes the late and only boy, the fruit of long expectations. Parents, sometimes regardless of their wishes, call those children who were born after great anxieties and fears this way. In infancy, Bogdan is prone to colds. At the same time, the mother, concerned about her son’s health, does not deny him anything.

The role of the father in upbringing is almost not felt. The child becomes attached to his mother, jealous of almost everyone. He lacks sociability, so he doesn’t get along very well with his peers. IN school years Bogdan is friends with children who enjoy authority among his comrades and who are able to stand up for him. The grades in the subjects are not very good. Despite the presence of abilities, natural laziness, to which Bogdan is prone, interferes. True, laziness becomes dull over time.

IN mature age Bogdan is a calm man with good self-esteem. He strives to get well in life and make a career. A man is capable of achieving heights in any specific specialty that does not require improvisation.

In the family, Bogdan wants to be the unquestioned leader. He likes his wives to be submissive and allow him to show his power. Such categoricalness manifests itself not only in relationships with his wife, but also in communication with colleagues and acquaintances. Having had too much alcohol, Bogdan can get involved in an argument about any issue, without listening to his opponent’s arguments. At the same time, he has many character traits that turn him into a good husband. For example, he shows persistence in seeking additional income, being frugal in his expenses. Bogdan likes to spend money only on vacations for the whole family.

The meaning of the name Radmila

Parents continue to choose Radmila - this is one of the most popular names. It combines two words: joyful and sweet. Despite the fact that the girl has a calm character, you should not leave her alone. Because of her developed imagination, it is not easy to predict what will come to her mind when she is left to her own devices.

Predisposed to colds and other infectious diseases. She is absolutely not afraid of dogs. Regardless of the size of the animals, he boldly approaches them and pets them.

Radmila asks adults a lot of different, sometimes unchildish questions that can confuse them. He enjoys communicating with strangers, since parents are sometimes tired of answering numerous questions. Radmila retains her sociability throughout her life. Radmila does not always experience pleasure when she finds herself in the center of someone else's attention. She is characterized by authority, but this trait makes her a potential leader.

Such ancient Russian names have become widespread in this moment. Names have long story, and, apparently, it will not end soon.

Old Russian and Slavic names in Russia, nowadays

The main array of modern Russian names consists of the names of saints contained in Orthodox church calendars(“saints”) Sometimes such names are called “calendar”. They are all very different in origin: ancient Greek, ancient Roman (Latin), Hebrew, Assyrian, ancient Egyptian, ancient Germanic, Scandinavian, Arabic. But over hundreds of years, these names underwent complete assimilation into the Russian linguistic environment and acquired a completely Russian sound and form. Who will say that Ivan or Marya are not Russian names?

As for the huge variety of Old Russian and Slavic names, only 20 names have survived to our time:Boris, Vera, Vladimir, Vladislav, Vsevolod, Vyacheslav, Izyaslav, Lyubov, Lyudmila, Militsa, Mstislav, Nadezhda, Rostislav, Svyatoslav, Yaropolk, Yaroslav, as well as Gleb, Igor, Olga and Oleg, who appeared in Rus' along with the Varangians. And it should be noted that the names mentioned were preserved only due to the fact that somehow miraculously got into Orthodox saints.

Behind last years interest in the names of our distant ancestors has grown and continues to grow (this is noted by civil registry offices throughout the country). All larger number newborns are named Vlad, Darina, Miroslava, Milana, Stanislav, Jaromir, etc. We bring to your attention a list of the most attractive (harmonious and modern-looking) male and female common Slavic names.

List of male names (Old Russian-Varangian-Slavic):

Bazhen (desired child, rootbazh-; bash- wish),
Bogdan, Dan (God-given),
Bogumil (dear to God; God loves him),
Boguslav (born for the glory of God; glorifying God),
Boleslav (more glory, more glorious),
Boris, Borislav (fight, fight + glory),
Bronislav (defend, defend + glory),
Budimir (will be, will come + peace),
Velimir, Velislav (veli = great, large),
Wenceslaus (crown = more, more),
Vlad,
Vladimir,
Vladislav,
Vojislav (fight for glory),
Vratislav (return, return + glory),
Vsevolod,
Vseslav,
Vysheslav, Vyacheslav (higher, higher, crown- synonyms, mean more, more),
Gleb (Varangian name),
Gostislav (gost = guest: nice guest),
Gradislav (),
Gremislav,
Dobromysl (good thoughts),
Dobroslav (good fame),
Dobrynya (kind, good person),
Dragoslav,
Zhdan (the one who was expected; long-awaited),
Zvenislav,
Zlatoslav,
Igor (Varangian name),
Izyaslav (confiscate- take: “take the glory”, “take the glory”),
Casimir (kaz, to say= show, instruct, preach + peace),
Ladimir, Ladislav (wordokaymeans agreement, harmony, beauty),
We love (Darling), Lubomir (loves the world),
Mieczyslaw (sword, i.e. weapons + glory),
Milan, Milen, Milorad, Miloslav, Milos,
Miroslav,
Mstislav (revenge= revenge, vengeance on enemies + glory),
Nechay (didn't expect, didn't expect),
Oleg (Varangian name),
Radan, Radim, Radmir, Radovan, Radoslav,
Ratibor (army- army, war,boron- fight, fight)
Ratmir,
Rostislav (increase, multiply + glory),
Rurik (Varangian name),
Svyatopolk, Svyatoslav and Svetoslav (“holiness” and “light” are synonyms, in reality they are one name),
Stanimir (there will be peace, there will be peace),
Stanislav (become famous, become famous),
Stoyan,
Sudislav (court+ glory),
Tverdoslav, Tverdislav,
Tvorimir,
Tihomir,
Cheslav (honor, honor + glory),
Jaromir, Yaropolk, Yaroslav (yar, yar =spring;ardent =red, hot, hot, furious)

Notes:

1). All the above Old Russian-Varangian-Slavic names (from Bazhen to Yaroslav) actually existed, and this is confirmed historical documents(see the works of Moroshkin M.Ya. and Tupikov N.M.). And the name Ruslan, for example, only seems Slavic and ancient, in fact it has eastern origin and age not exceeding 200 years.

2). Elementglory, glorymeans not only “glory” (as evidence of honor and respect), but also “to be called, named, reputed, to be known.”

3). Rootglad-in Slavic names like Radoslav and Milorad means not onlyrejoice, but alsoplease(that is, to care for, to care for, to promote).

4). Among our ancestors, the names Svyatoslav and Svetoslav were identical, since the wordslightAndholiness, lightAndsaint

5). Patronymic names from Slavic names are formed as a short form - Yaroslavich, Yaroslavna; Dobrynich, Dobrynichna; Svyatoslavich, Svyatoslavna, and “long” - Stanislavovich, Stanislavovna, Mstislavovich, Mstislavovna.

6). NamesBoris, Vladimir, Vladislav, Vsevolod, Vyacheslav, Gleb, Igor, Izyaslav, Mstislav, Oleg, Rostislav, Svyatoslav, Yaropolk, Yaroslav are the names of Orthodox saints, so they can be both passport and godparents. If you want to call the boy any other name from the above list (Velemir, Dobrynya, Zhdan, Ratmir, Stanislav, Yaromir, etc.), then keep in mind that for baptism you will need to prepare another name - “calendar” ( that is, contained in the Orthodox “saints”).

List of female names (Old Russian-Varangian-Slavic):

Bazhena (desired, desired child, frombazh, bazhat- wish),
Bela (i.e.white),
Beloslava (white and nice),
Bogdana, Dana (God given),
Bogumila (dear to God; God loves her),
Boguslav (born for the glory of God; glorifying God),
Bozena (God's given by God; belongs to God),
Boleslav (more glory, more glorious),
Borislava (fight, fight + glory),
Bronislava (defend, defend + glory),
Wanda (value unknown),
Velislava (veli = great, large),
Wenceslas (crown = more, more),
Vlada (having power, imperious), Vladimir, Vladislav (having glory, possessing glory),
Vlasta, Vlastimila,
Vojislava (fight for glory),
Vratislava (return, return + glory),
Vsemila (everyone dear),
Vseslava,
Vysheslava (highermeans more, more)
Gostislava (gost = guest),
Gradislava (grad = city, castle, fortress),
Darina (from the wordgift, gift),
Dobrava (from the wordgood),
Dobromila,
Dobronega (kindness + tenderness, softness),
Dobroslava,
Dragomira,
Dragoslava,
Zhdana (the one they were waiting for; long-awaited),
Zvenislava,
Zlata, Zlatoslava,
Willow (name of tree, bush),
Inga (madam, Varangian name),
Casimir (kaz, to say= show, tell),
Viburnum (name of tree, bush),
Ladislava (wordokaymeansagreement, harmony, beauty),
Lyubava,
Lyubomir,
Lyudmila,
Raspberry (the name of the berry),
Mieczyslaw (sword, i.e. weapon +glory),
Mila, Milava, Milana, Milena, Militsa,
Milolika,
Miloslava,
Mira, Miroslava,
Mlada, Mladena,
Mstislav (revenge, vengeance on enemies + glory),
Hope,
Nezhdana (came unexpectedly),
Olga (from VarangianHelga),
Predslava (ahead + glory),
Beautiful,
Pribyslav (to arrive, increase, multiply + glory),
Glad (see also Ariadne),
Radmila,
Radoslava,
Rogneda (from VarangianRagnhild - advice before battle),
Rostislav (increase, multiply + glory),
Ruzhena (rose- flower),
Sbyslava (will come true + glory),
Svyatoslav and Svetoslav (“holiness” and “light” are synonyms, in reality they are one name),
Severina (from the wordnorth, but also from the Christian male name Severin),
Glory,
Slawomir,
Stanislava,
Sudislava (judgment + glory),
Tverdislava, Tverdoslava,
Tsvetana (blooming, flower),
Cheslava (honor + glory),
Yara (yar, yaro = spring; spring, hot),
Jarmila (hot, ardent + sweet, beloved),
Jaromira (yar + peace = ardent and hot, but peaceful, peace-loving),
Yaroslav (yar, yaro = spring; ardent = red, hot, hot, furious)

Notes:

1). All the above Old Russian-Varangian-Slavic names (from Bazhena to Yaroslava) actually existed, and this is confirmed by historical documents (see the works of Moroshkin M.Ya. and Tupikov N.M. And names such as Lada, Ruslana, Svetlana and Snezhana They only seem ancient, but in fact these are “artificial” names with an age not exceeding 150-200 years.

2). Regarding the elementglory, glory, then it means not only “glory” (as evidence of universal respect), but also “to be called, named, reputed, to be known.”

3). RootGlad-in Slavic names like Radmila, Radoslava means not onlyrejoice, but alsoplease(that is, to care for, to care for, to promote); rootPowermeanshomeland, fatherland.

4). Among our ancestors, the names of Svyatoslav and Svetoslav were identical, since the wordslightAndholiness, lightAndsaintexpress the same meaning - “pure, unsullied.”

5). NamesVera, Lyubov, Lyudmila, Militsa, Nadezhda, Olga are the names of Orthodox saints, so they can be both passport and godparents. If you want to call the girl any other name from the above list (Bozhena, Vlasta, Zlata, Inga, Miroslava, Radmila, Yaroslava, etc.), then keep in mind that for baptism you need to prepare another name - “calendar” (that is, contained in the Orthodox “saints”).

For other materials on this topic, see the section

Names serve for naming people - when communicating and addressing, and to distinguish one person from another - when listing, describing or narrating. But there are many more people than names, so one name bears many different people. How then to distinguish them? Additional names and the entire naming composition come to the rescue. About a person’s name in ancient times, names from the times of the USSR and in Tsarist Russia there was talk. Let's continue the conversation on the topic history of Russian names.

Names in Ancient Rome

IN Ancient Rome for people of the propertied classes there was such a naming order: praenomen (pre-name), nomen (name) and cognomen ( family name) - Gaius Julius Caesar. Sometimes there was also a fourth name: agnomen (nickname) - Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus the Elder.

The history of names in different countries of the world

In most languages, a personal name and a generic name are used (father, mother, place of birth): Isaac Newton, Prosper Merimee, Mikhailo Lomonosov, Leonardo da Vinci, Lope de Vega.

For kings, tsars, and rulers, the surname was often replaced by a nickname: Vladimir Monomakh, Dmitry Donskoy, Ivan the Terrible, Pepin the Short, John the Landless, Heinrich the Birdcatcher, while the nickname, unlike the surname, is always translated into other languages.

In some nations, it is customary to name children with a chain of names: Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, George Gordon Byron, Jose Raul Capablanca y Graupera (here and double surname). It happens that the chain of names goes on; for example, the medieval alchemist Paracelsus was called: Philip-Aureol-Theophrastus-Bombastus Count von Hohenheim, and in one drama by Victor Hugo one aristocrat bears the name: Gil-Basilio-Fernand-Ireneo - Felippe-Frasco-Frascito Count de
Belverana. Even in the 19th century, the heir to the Spanish throne bore the name: Don Pedro - d'Alcantara - Maria Fernando - Gonzago-Xavier-Miguel - Gibriel-Rafazel Antonio - Joaon-Leopoldo-Francisco - d'Assisi - Saxe - Coburg-Gotha de Braganza -e-Bourbon! (This is reported by L.V. Uspensky in the book “What does your name mean?”, 1940)

Names in Ancient Rus'. Names before the Baptism of Rus'

What is the situation with names in Russian? Before the adoption of Christianity in Rus'(X century) among the privileged classes there were such names as Lyubomir, Ostromir, Svyatoslav, Rostislav, Yaroslav, Lyudmila, Rogneda, Voislava and the like. With the adoption of Christianity “according to the Eastern rite” with Kiev prince In Vladimir, new names appeared that were listed in church canons and therefore called canonical; they were given when performing the “sacrament of baptism.”

IN Ancient Rus' these names served as legal names for people and were placed first in deeds, bills of sale and other documents. However, the habit of using old names that were not included in the lists and canons of the church persisted for a long time in Rus', at least until the 17th century. At the same time, in ancient Russian documents one constantly encounters double names: “...by the name of Milonog. Peter by baptism." Or: “...Waited for peace, and in baptism Mikula,” etc. Thus, for several centuries, along with the canonical names: Alexander, Alexey, Daniel, Dimitri, Konstantin, Nikita, Nikolai, Peter, Roman, Sergei, etc. .p. - non-canonical names were also in use, which were used more in everyday communication and in second place in letters: Pervusha, Vtor, Tretyak (according to the chronology of birth); Zhdan, Nezhdan, Nechai (according to the circumstances of birth); Guban, Ushak, Plekhan, Shcherbak, Nesmeyan, Gloomy, Bulgak, Zloba, Istoma, Druzhina (by physical and mental properties); Wolf, Horse, Thrush, Ruff (by the names of animals, birds, fish); as well as Tail, Frost, Fur Coat, Cannon, etc.

IN history of Russian names these names are more reminiscent of nicknames, which, however, could not only distinguish between people with the same canonical names, but also later turn into surnames, which we will talk about next time.

Judging even from the examples given, one can see that proper names, as a rule, come from common nouns, but since proper names pass from one people to another and live for centuries in different linguistic environments, then most often they “mean” in some way in another language, in this language this borrowed name is only a proper name and does not mean anything, but only names.

Russian canonical names are borrowed from Greek, Latin, Hebrew, and ancient Germanic, where they were also common nouns (as in Russian: Vera, Nadezhda, Lyubov). Here are some examples:

Greek: George (“farmer”), Alexander (“protector of husbands”). Apollo (“destroyer”), Arkhip (“chief of the cavalry”), Hippolytus (“unharnesser of horses”), Philip (“lover of horses”), Nikephoros (“victorious”),
Latin: Victor (“winner”), Victoria (“victory”), Valentin, Valery, Valeryan (“healthy”), Marina (“sea”), Juvenaly (“youthful”),
Hebrew: Anna (“grace”), Gabriel (“divine warrior”), Michael (“divine”), Mary (“bitter”).
Old Scandinavian: Igor (one of the names of the thunder god in connection with the common noun var - “warriorship, strength”), Oleg, Olga (“sacred, majestic”).

It is absolutely clear that in the Russian names Anna, Mikhail, Maria, Nikifor, etc. there is no common noun meaning. These are just names.

Many Slavic names are translations of foreign languages, for example: Zlata - Greek. Chrysa, Bogdan - Greek. Theodor (Fedor), Militsa - Greek. Harita, Faith - Greek. Pistis, Nadezhda - Greek. Elkis, Love - Greek. Agape, lat. Amata, etc.

Many Russian names have parallel variants that arose due to different renderings of the same foreign name: Evdokia-Avdotya, Ksenia -Aksinya, Glikeria - Lukerya, Anastasia - Nastasya, Georgy - Yuri - Egor, Paraskeva - Praskovya, etc.

The original appearance of many borrowed names has changed greatly in the practice of the Russian language, for example: Joseph-Osip, Eleazar - Lazar, Dionysius - Denis, Cosmas - Kuzma, Emmanuel - Manuila, Eustathius - Ostafiy, Stahey, Johanaan - Ivan.

Pre-revolutionary years

The desire to update the repertoire of names manifested itself in pre-revolutionary times, when the fashion for Old Russian names, although many of them were non-Slavic in origin, for example Oleg, Igor (the fashionable poet of that time Igor Severyanin wrote: “How good it is that I am separate, that I am Igor, and not Ivan ...”), at the same time they also entered the fashion for “romantic” and “exotic” names: Tamara, Isabella, Valentina (from the same Igor Severyanin: “Valentina! So much passion! Valentina! So much horror... It was at a concert at a medical institute..."). How can one not remember Nastya from Gorky’s play “At the Depths”, when the Baron says about her: “Today Raoul, tomorrow Gaston... Fatal love, lady!”

1920 - 1930

In the 20s, the craving for “romantic” names intensified. It was possible to announce a name change through the Izvestia newspaper. And so the Fekla and Matryona began to change their names to Evelyn, Leonor and Vener, and Terentia and Sidor - to Alfredov and Richard (remember the loser from the film " Musical history"Alfred Terentyevich Tarakanov...).

In addition to this, two more types of names appeared:

1) names from common nouns and derivatives from them, which corresponded to the ideology and phraseology of the revolutionary era of the 20s: Labor, International, Struggle, Communar, Tractor, Detector - for boys; Spark, Star, Tractor, Ideal (!) - for girls..;
2) names formed from the personal names of revolutionaries and their own, generated by the revolutionary era: Marxin, Engelsin, Lenin, Comintern, Oktyabrin...

In addition, in connection with the general tendency of the business language of that time towards abbreviations and abbreviations (that is, designations based on the first letters), names appeared from abbreviations of names and slogans: Vlad(i)len. Maplen, Borzamir, Dazamira, Zanarzema, Revmira, Renata, Gertrude, Lagshmivara...

And also abbreviations from the first letters of names and slogans: Viracle, Vilora.

Many parents put their children in an awkward position because they could “unravel” ideological meaning the name was very difficult, but attributing it to the well-known series of names is much easier. Thus, Gertrude (“heroine of labor”) coincides with German name Gertrude, Kim (“Communist Youth International”) - with Korean, Renata (“revolution - science - work”) - with Italian, and those who bear these names seem, alas, to be foreigners!

The same thing happened with abbreviations and inversions: Vilora is perceived as Italian name. Ninel - like French, Virakl - like Greek (cf. Hercules, Pericles), Borzamir - like Old Russian (cf. Ostromir, Jaromir), and Lagshmivara makes one think of India...

And no decodings like Vilor - “V. I. Lenin is the father of the revolution” or Dizar - “Baby, go for the revolution” do not help here. The type of word decides everything for a given language. That is why Ideal so quickly turned into Ida, Ninel into Nina, and Struggle into Boris.

In names Soviet era In the 60s there was great diversity. Basically, of course, these were canonical names like Alexander, Vasily, Ivan, Peter, Pavel, Sergei, as well as Natalya, Tatyana, Vera, Nadezhda, Lyubov, Anna, Maria, Ekaterina...

From these names there have long been diminutives legalized by custom: Sasha, Shura, Vasya, Vanya, Petya, Pasha, Natasha, Tanya, Nadya, Masha, Katya... These names are familiar and common, they are the most durable in the Russian history of names and have existed for tens of centuries. It is these names that are still common in the Russian language.

Based on materials from the magazine “Family and School”, 1962