Etymological dictionary of proper names. Russian names

Directory contains brief information about the origin and meaning of some Russian names
Accepted abbreviations: Arabic - Arabic Aramaic - Aramaic Greek - Greek Gothic - Gothic OE - Old English other Heb. - Hebrew dr.-germ. - Old Germanic Old Persian - Old Persian Old Russian - Old Russian Old Scand. - Old Norse Latin. - Latin Russian. - Russian Slav. - Slavic Turk. - Turkic Ethiopian. - Ethiopian Nar. - folk is simple. - common obsolete. - obsolete august- venerable, majestic (lat.). Avdotya- sweet, glorious, supportive (Greek), Russian folk version of Evdokia. avenir- bright, shining; lit.: son of light (heb.). Averky- secretive, hostile, rejecting (lat.). Folk variant: Averyan. Averyan- secretive, hostile, rejecting (lat.). Folk version of the name Averky. Auxentius- healthy, growing, blooming (Greek). Agapit- beloved, affectionate, dear (Greek). Agathon- kind, worthy, useful (Greek). Agafya- kind, good, noble (Greek). Haggai- funny; lit.: festive (heb.). Aglaida- joyful, beautiful; lit.: daughter of Aglaya (Greek). Aglaya- cheerful, beautiful, important (Greek). In the mythology of the ancient Greeks, Aglaya is one of the Charites, the goddess of beauty, the joys of life, the personification of female charm. Agnes- pure, modest, immaculate; lit.: sheep (Greek). Agnia- pure, modest, immaculate; the same as Agnes (Greek). Agrafena- villager Russian folk version of the name Agrippina (lat.). Agrippina- working trouble-free; lit.: peasant horse (lat.). Adelaide- noble, noble; lit.: daughter of Adele (dr. German). Adeline- noble, noble; lit.: belonging to Adele (Old German). Adele- noble, noble (other German), originally - Adella. Akaki- meek, gentle, ingenuous (Greek). Akim- lucky, happy; lit.: God raises up (heb.). Option: Joachim (outdated). Colloquial options: Ekim, Yakim. Akindin- faithful, reliable, not endangered (Greek). Aksinya- developing, healthy, blooming (Greek). Option: Auxinia (obsolete). Akulina- bold, proud; lit.: eagle (lat.). Folk version of the name Akilina (outdated). Alevtina- cautious, impregnable (Greek). Alexander- courageous defender, brave man (Greek). Alexandra- courageous protector (Greek). Alexei protector, defender (Greek). Alyona- bright, sunny, clear (Greek). Folk version of the name Elena. Alice- noble, noble (other German), French and English version of the name Adelaide. Alla- presumably: ruler, mistress (Goth.). Albert- noble, famous (other German). Albina- light, blond, happy (lat.). Ambrose- very pleasant, divine (Greek). Ambrosia - according to the ancient Greeks, the food and drink of the gods. Amos- industrious, industrious; lit.: burden-bearing (heb.). Ananias- rich, lucky; lit.: God is merciful to him (heb.). Anastasia- immortal (Greek). Anastaty- resurrection, resurrected (Greek) Anatoly- clear, morning; lit.: eastern (Greek). Angelina messenger, messenger (Greek). Andrey- courageous, courageous; lit.: man (Greek). Andron- a real man; lit.: conqueror of men (Greek). Abbreviated version of the name Andronicus. Anempodist- unstoppable, not encountering obstacles (Greek). Anikita- lucky, invincible (Greek). Folk variants: Anikey, Anika. Anika is the hero of an old Russian verse "About Anika and Death". He was not defeated by anyone before meeting with Death. Hence the saying: Anika is a warrior. Anisya- lovely, perfect (Greek). Not to be confused with the name Onisia. Anna- beautiful, fertile, blessed (heb.). The same as John, the female version of the male name John, Ivan. Antip- replacement for the father, an abbreviated version of the name Antipater (lat.). Anton- An ancient Roman family name. The meaning is unclear. Presumably: a person with an easy character (lat.). Antonina- cheerful, cheerful; lit.: belonging to Anton (lat.). Option: Antonida. Anfisa- blooming, bright, full of life (Greek). Option: Anfiya. Apollinaris- beautiful, smart, healing; lit.: dedicated to Apollo (see) (Greek). Apollinaria- beautiful, smart, poetic; lit.: dedicated to Apollo (Greek). Apollo- bright, beautiful, smart (Greek). Apollo is the ancient Greek god of light, beauty, prophetic gift, poetry and healing. Ardalion- fidget, troublemaker, hard worker (lat.). Arefiy- two explanations: 1) a virtuous plowman; 2) eagle (both Arabic). Ariadne beautiful, attractive (Greek). According to Greek legend, Ariadne, the daughter of the Cretan king Minos, helped the Athenian hero Theseus get out of the labyrinth palace after he killed the terrible half-beast, half-man Minotaur there. She gave Theseus a ball of thread, fastening one end at the entrance. Having accomplished the feat, the hero left the palace, holding on to the "thread of Ariadne". Arina- peaceful, calm (Greek). Russian folk version of the name Irina. Aristarch- an excellent organizer, a skillful ruler (Greek). Arkady- simple, good-natured, happy; lit.: inhabitant of Arcadia (Greek). According to the ideas of the ancient Greeks, Arcadia is a country of happy, carefree existence in the bosom of nature. Arseniy- a real man, lover (Greek). Artemy- healthy (Greek). Options: Artyom, Artyom, Artamon. Archelaus- ruler, leader of the peoples (Greek). Arkhip- head of horses, senior rider (Greek). Astafy- stable (Greek). The same as Eustathius (see). Folk variant: Ostap. Athanasius- eternal, immortal (Greek). Folk variants: Afonya, Ofenya. Athanasius- full of life, immortal (Greek). Athenogen- smart, skillful, prosperous; lit.: born of Athena, goddess of the sciences, arts and peaceful prosperity (Greek). African- swarthy, black-haired; lit.: African (lat.) Bogdan- given by God (Russian). In the old days, orphans adopted in foreign families were called Bogdans, if they did not know their name. Boris- fighter for glory (Russian); an abbreviated version of the Slavic name Borislav. Bronislav- keeper of glory (glor.). Bronislava- guarding glory, honest (glorious). Budimir- tribune, orator, peacemaker (glor.). Vavila- a restless person, a fidget, a rebel (other Hebrew). Vadim- leader, teacher of the people (Russian); an abbreviated version of the old Russian name Vadimir: from vaditi - "to teach" and the world - "people". Valentine- big man, strong man (lat.). Valentine- strong, healthy, invigorating (lat.). Valerian- soothing, giving strength (lat.). Valery- strong, healthy, vigorous (lat.). Valeria- strong, healthy, vigorous (lat.). barbarian- foreigner, foreigner (Greek). Varlam- the meaning is unclear. Option: Varlaam (outdated). Bartholomew- son of Tolmay, Ptolemy (aram.). The meaning of the name Tolmai is unclear. Bartholomew is one of the twelve biblical apostles. Basil- royal, ruler: lit.: basileus, king (Greek). Basilisk- king (Greek). Vasilsa- Queen (Greek). Vassa- Queen (Greek). Abbreviated version of the name Vasilisa. Benedict- reasonably speaking, friendly; lit.: blessed (lat.). Venus- young, beautiful, beloved (lat.). In ancient Roman mythology, Venus is the daughter of Jupiter, the goddess of spring, beauty and love. Faith- faithful, unchanging (Russian). This name was included in the Russian name book as a translation Greek name Pistis. Veronica- lucky; lit.: victorious (Greek). Vivey- lively, fresh, ardent (lat.). Vincent- victorious, excellent (lat.). Victor- winner (lat.). Victoria- victory (lat.). Virineya- young, blooming (lat.). Vissarion- Forest man; lit.: inhabitant of the forest valley - bessy (Greek). Vitaly- alive, healthy; lit.: life-giving (lat.). Vitalina- living, viable, durable (lat.). Vladimir- lord of the world, ruler (glory). Russian version of the name: Volodymyr. Vladislav- glorious, famous; lit.: possessing glory (glory). Vladislav- glorious, famous, venerable (glorious). Vlas- hairy, curly (glory). A variant of the name of the ancient Slavic god Veles (Volos), the patron saint of domestic animals. Option: Vlasy (outdated). Boniface- kind, sympathetic, doing good (lat.). Vsevolod- rich, owning everything (other Russian). Vukol- shepherd (Greek) Cf. expression: bucolic poetry is a kind of literature that describes the life of a shepherd in the bosom of nature. Vyacheslav- the most famous, glorious (other Russian). Gavril- strong, powerful; lit.: God is my strength (heb.). Options: Gabriel (obsolete), Gabriel (simple). Galaction- blond, white; lit.: milky (Greek). Colloquial option: Laktion. Galina- quiet, calm, serene (Greek). Gennady- noble, son of respectable parents (Greek). Henrietta- hostess (dr.-germ.). Henry- master; lit.: the owner of the estate (Old German). George- peasant, plowman, farmer (Greek). Folk variants of this name: Yegor, Yuri (see). Gerasim- venerable, respected (Greek). Hermogenes- smart, hardy, quick; lit.: born of Hermes (Greek). Hermes among the ancient Greeks is the messenger of the Olympic gods, the guide of souls in the world of the dead, the patron of travelers and cattle breeders, the god of trade, the inventor of the lyre and the shepherd's flute, the alphabet and numbers. The same as Mercury among the Romans. Glafiira- graceful, slender, courteous (Greek). Gleb- strong, healthy, courageous (other German). The Russian version of this name (Golob) is preserved in the name locality in Volyn - Goloby. Glyceria- sweet, sweet, beloved (Greek). Gordey- the meaning is unclear (Greek). In ancient Greece, there was a legend about the farmer Gordias, who invented the wheel and made a cart. When the inhabitants of Phrygia elected him king, he founded the city of Gordion and donated his cart to the temple of Zeus. He tied a yoke to her drawbar with a very complex knot. The oracle at the same time predicted that the one who untied the knot would be the ruler of the world. According to legend, Alexander the Great simply cut the "Gordian knot" with a sword. Gradislava- honest, cherishing his glory (glor.). Granislav- perfecting his glory (glory). From granite - "grind" and glory. Granislava- perfecting its glory (glor.). Gregory- awake, vigilant, cautious (Greek). Gury- young man with beautiful eyes, handsome (arab.). In Muslim mythology, the houris are heavenly maidens, distinguished by their beauty. Another explanation: a lion cub (ancient Hebrew). Davyd- beloved, beloved (heb.). Option: David (obsolete). Danil - fair man; lit.: my judge is God (heb.). Options: Daniil (outdated), Danilo. Darina- a gift of fate (Russian). Another explanation: the same as Daria. Daria- rich, domineering (other Persian). Dementy- a joker, a deceiver; lit.: maddening (lat.). Demid- prosperous, happy; lit.: Zeus takes care of him (Greek). Option: Diomede (obsolete). Demyan- the name has two interpretations: 1) people's choice; 2) conqueror, tamer (both Greek). Option: Damian (obsolete). Denis- merry fellow (Greek). Option: Dionysius (obsolete). In the mythology of the ancient Greeks, Dionysus is the god of wine, poetic inspiration, theatrical art and fun folk gatherings. Dina- brisk, mobile, restless (Greek). Another explanation: avenged (heb.). Dmitriy- farmer, peasant lit.: Dedicated to Demeter (Greek). Demeter among the ancient Greeks is the goddess of agriculture and fertility. Dobrognev- fair in anger (glory.). Dobromila- kind, merciful (glorious). Dobroslav- famous for its kindness (glor.). Blast furnace- hostess, imperious, managerial; lit.: mistress (lat.). Donat- the long-awaited son, a gift of fate (lat.). Dorotheus- long-awaited, desired; lit.: gift of God (Greek). evangelina- Bringing good news (Greek). Eugene- noble, son good parents(Greek). Evgenia- noble, falling into sublime feelings (Greek). Evgraf- graceful, beautiful; lit.: written handsome man (Greek). Evdokim- venerable, enjoying good fame (Greek). Evdokia- glorious, kind, supportive; lit.: blessing (Greek). Eulalia- eloquent, possessing oratorical talent (Greek). Evlampy- light, shiny; lit.: blessing (Greek). Eulampia- bright, sunny, enlightened (Greek). Eularia- beautiful, charming singer (Greek). Eupl- an excellent swimmer (Greek). Folk variant: Eupol. Eupraxia- happy, prosperous (Greek). Yevsey- pious, venerable, respected (Greek). Option: Eusebius (outdated). Evstafiy- calm, persistent, balanced (Greek). Options: Astafy, Ostap. Evstigney- noble, excellent (Greek). Eustolia- richly dressed, rich (Greek). Eustrat- an excellent warrior, strategist (Greek). Option: Eustratius (outdated). Eutychius happy (Greek) Option: Euthytheus. Euphalia- luxuriantly blooming, prolific (Greek). Euphemia- decent, friendly (Greek). Folk variants: Efimya, Ofimya. Egor- farmer, peasant (Greek). Russian folk version of the name George. Catherine- gentle, meek, purest (Greek). Elena- bright, clear, sunny (Greek). Options: Alena, Olena. Elizabeth- faithful, respectful; lit.: "I swear to God" (heb.). Elizar- benevolent, helpful; lit.: God helped (heb.). Option: Eleazar (outdated). Eliconida- talented, dedicated to the muses; lit.: inhabitant of Helikon (Greek). In ancient Greece, the mountain was called Helikon, where, according to myths, the Muses lived - goddesses who patronized the arts. Elisha- desirable, wonderful, beautiful (Greek). Wed elysium - paradise ancient mythology, the seat of the souls of the righteous. Another explanation: God helped (heb.). Emelyan- slender, solid, serious (Greek). Another explanation: belonging to the ancient Roman family of Aemilia; presumably: zealous, zealous (lat.). Folk options: Emelya, Omelya. Epifan- prominent, noble, glorious (Greek). Option: Epiphanius (outdated). Erast- lovely, sweet, amiable (Greek). Option: Erast. Eremey- exalted; lit.: exalted by God (other Heb.). Options: Jeremiah (obsolete), Yerema (simple). Yermolai- happy, dexterous, eloquent; lit.: a man from a clan patronized by Hermes - the god of trade and profit, dexterity and eloquence (Greek). Erofei- happy, fortunate; lit.: consecrated by God (Greek). Option: Hierofey (obsolete). Yefim- respectful, modest (Greek). Option: Evfimy (obsolete). Ephraim- viable, prolific (other Hebrew). Euphrosyne- joyful, cheerful, laughing (Greek). Jeanne - European version from John, Ivanna; see Ivan. Zakhar- lucky, happy; lit.: God remembers him (heb.). Options: Zechariah, Zechariah (outdated). Zinaida- beautiful, divine; lit.: daughter of the god Zeus (Greek). Zinovy- long-awaited, desired; lit.: who received life at the will of Zeus (Greek). Zlata- fair-haired, golden (glorious). Zosima- vital, tenacious; lit.: marked with the sign of life (Greek). Zoya- live, mobile; lit.: life itself (Greek). Ivan- beautiful, rich, wonderful; lit.: the grace of God (heb.). The name Ivan, which has become synonymous with the word "Russian" outside of Russia, comes from the Hebrew Jehochanan - "God's beloved, promised land." Through the Greek Johann, the Bulgarian John turned into the Russian Ivan. Option: John (obsolete). Ignat- modest, humble; lit.: commoner (lat.). Option: Ignatius. Igor- a diligent farmer (Old Scand.). The ancient Scandinavians Ing - "the god of fertility and abundance", varr - "attentive". The name Ingvar, Igor came to Rus' with the Varangians: one of the first Kyiv princes of the 9th century, Igor was the son of the Varangian Rurik. In Russian chronicles, Russian princes with the name Ingvar are found more than once. isosim- viable, marked with the sign of life (Greek). Folk version of the name Zosima (see). Hilarion- cheerful, joyful (Greek). Folk variant: Larion. Ilaria- cheerful, joyful (Greek). Iliodor gift from the sun (Greek) Ilya- faithful to God, strong, incorruptible; lit.: Yahweh is my god (heb.). Inessa- pure, immaculate (Greek). The same as Agnes. In the Russian name book, the name Inessa came from Spain. Innocent- honest, disinterested, impeccable (lat.). John- beautiful, rich, wonderful (heb.). The same as Ivan (see). Job- persecuted (ancient Hebrew). Joel- the Lord God himself (heb.) (obsolete). And she- dove (ancient Hebrew). Options: Ion, Yvon. Joseph- diligent, helpful; lit.: the grace of God (heb.). Folk variant: Osip. Ipat- high (Greek). Option: Hypatium. Hippolyte- rider unharnessing horses (Greek). Heraclius- strongman, giant, Hercules; lit.: overshadowed by the glory of Hera - the goddess of love and married life (Greek) Irina- peaceful, calm; lit.: goddess of peaceful life (Greek). Folk options: Arina, Orina. Irinarch- peaceful ruler, peacemaker (Greek). Irenaeus- calm, peaceful (Greek). Wed female name Irina (see). Iroid- bold, courageous; lit.: hero's daughter (Greek). Isakiy- cheerful, funny; lit.: he will laugh (heb.). Options: Isaac (obsolete), Isak. And I- violet, levkoy (Greek). Kaleria- hot, ardent; lit.: flammable (lat.). viburnum- handsome (Greek). The Russian version of the name - Kalin - is found in fairy tales. Callinicus- glorious winner; lit.: beautifully victorious (Greek). Options: Kalenik, Kalina (see). Callista- beautiful, graceful (Greek). Callistratus- an excellent commander (Greek). Capitolina- smart, important; lit.: servant of the main Roman temple of the Capitol (lat.). Kapiton- reasonable person, leader; lit.: big head (lat.). Carp- viable; lit.: fruit (Greek). Kasyan- fair; lit.: belonging to the ancient Roman family of Cassius, consuls and tribunes, distinguished by strictness and justice (lat.). Option: Cassian (obsolete). Kelsius- mobile, lively (Greek); exalted (lat.) Kensorin- severe moralist, strict critic; letters. belonging to the censor (lat.). Kypriyan- a resident of the island of Cyprus, Cypriot (Greek). Folk variant: Kupriyan. Kirill- domineering, powerful (Greek). Kiryan- chief, lord, lord (Greek). Option: Kirian (obsolete). Claudian- belonging to Claudius (lat.). Folk variant: Claudian. Claudius- lame (lat.). Claudia- shaky, unstable; lit.: lame (lat.). Clara- clear, glorious, famous (lat.). Klementy- meek, merciful, affectionate (lat.). Options: Kliment, Klim. Clementine- meek, calm, affectionate (lat.). Option: Clementine. Kondrat- stocky, folding; lit.: square (lat.). Option: Kondraty. Conon- (Greek). The meaning is unclear. In ancient Greece, the following were known: Konon the naval commander (IV century BC), Konon the mathematician and astronomer (III century BC) and Konon the grammarian and writer, the author of many stories about gods and heroes ( 1st century AD). Konstantin- persistent, resolute, unshakable (lat.). Roots- hard, rigid; lit.: horn-like (lat.). Options: Kornil, Cornelius. Another explanation: dogwood berry (lat.). Ksenia- hospitable, kind (Greek). Xenophon- a person who speaks a foreign language, a foreigner (Greek). Kuzma- beautiful, peaceful, bright (Greek). Options: Kozma, Kosma (obsolete). The name of the same root with modern words"cosmos", "cosmetics". Lawrence- the winner, crowned with laurels; laureate (lat.) Folk variant: Laver. Lada- dear, beloved (other Russian). The ancient Russians worshiped Lada, the goddess of love and marriage. The modern expression "way in the family" is of the same origin as this name. Ladimir- peace-loving, getting along with the world (glor.). Lazarus- asking for help; lit.: God's help (heb.). The popular expression "sing Lazarus", that is, "ask for help", reflects the meaning of the name. Option: Elizar (see). Larisa- charming, pleasant; lit.: seagull (Greek). a lion- mighty, courageous; lit.: lion (Greek). Options: Levon, Leon. Leonid- lion cub (Greek). Leonty- courageous, strong; lit.: lion (Greek). liberium- free, free, independent (lat.). Lydia- Asian; lit.: a resident of the country of Lydia, Lydian (Greek). The ancient Greeks called Lydians not only Asia Minor, but also Ethiopians, Egyptians, Libyans. Lily- blonde; lit.: white lily (lat.). Leah- slim, fast; lit.: antelope (heb.). Login- high; lit.: long (lat.). Options: Loggin, Longin (outdated). Luke- light, clear (lat.). Variants: Lukyan (simple), Lukyan (obsolete) Lukerya- sweet, sweet, beloved (Greek). Folk variant of the name Glykeria. Lukiya- light, brilliant, incendiary (lat.). Lupp- wolf (lat.). Lyubava- beloved, dear, adored (other Russian). love- beloved, dear (Russian). Abbreviated version of the name Lubomir (see). Love- beloved, adored (Russian). It entered the Russian name book as a literal translation of the Greek name Agape. Lubomir- peaceful, peace-loving (glor.). Ludmila- sweet to people, kind, sympathetic (Russian). Maura- dark-skinned, brunette; lit.: Moorish (Greek). Makar- happy, satisfied, rich (Greek). Option: Macarius (obsolete). Maccabeus- stupid (Greek) Option: McKay. Makrida- thin (lat.). Options: Makrina, Mokrida (simple). Maksim- great, greatest (lat.). Malachi- the messenger of God (ancient Hebrew). Options: Malachi (obsolete), Malafei. Mamant- presumably: sucker (Greek) (obsolete). Folk variant: Mammoth. Manoilo- brave, lucky; lit.: God is with us (heb.). Options: Manuilo, Immanuel, Emmanuel. margarita- pearl, pearl (lat.). maremyana- glorious, excellent (heb.). Folk variant of the name Marianne. Marina- sailor; lit.: belonging to the sea (lat.) Maria- glorious, instructive, excellent (heb.). Option: Mary. Mark- ancient Roman family name; lit.: hammer (lat.). Another explanation: fading (lat.). Markel- hammer (lat.). Martin- militant; lit.: dedicated to Mars, the ancient Roman god of war (lat.). Option: Martin (obsolete). Martha- madam (aram.). Option: Martha. Matvey- a gift of God (dr. Heb.) The same as the Russian name Bogdan or the Greek Theodosius, Fedot. Matryona- venerable, respected mother of the family (lat.). Melania- dark-skinned woman (Greek). Another explanation: melancholic, thoughtful (Greek). Folk variant: Malanya. Meletius- caring, diligent, hardworking (Greek) Option: Melentius. Melitina- sweet, pleasant; lit.: honey (lat.). Merkul- fast, agile; lit.: from the merchant rank (lat.). Derived from the Latin name Mercury. In Roman mythology, Mercury is the god of trade. Methodius- purposeful, consistent in their actions, methodical (Greek). Milava- sweet, pretty (other Russian). Militsa- dear, beloved (glory). Milon- cute, gentle, wonderful (Russian). Abbreviated version of the Slavic name Miloneg. Myron- peace-loving, finding happiness in a peaceful life (Russian). Abbreviated version of the Slavic name Mironeg. Misail- desired; letters. asked from God (heb.). Mitrodor- beloved son; lit.: mother's gift (Greek). Mitrofan- mother's joy; bringing glory to the mother (Greek). Michael- powerful, smart, beautiful; lit.: equal to the god Yahweh (heb.). Micah- powerful, smart, beautiful (heb.). The same as Michael (see). Modest- modest, calm, reasonable (lat.). Mokey- merry fellow; lit.: mocker (Greek). Option: Moky (outdated). Muse- smart, talented, graceful (Greek). IN ancient Greek mythology there were nine muses, patron goddesses of sciences and arts: Euterpe is the goddess lyric poetry and music, Calliope - epic, Clio - history, Melpomene - tragedies, Polyhymnia - hymns, Thalia - comedy, Terpsichore - dances, Urania - astronomy, Erato - love poetry. Hope- faithful, reliable (Russian). Folk variant: Hope. The name entered the Russian name book as a literal translation of the Greek name Elpis. Nazar- devoted to God, a monk; lit.: he dedicated himself to God (heb.). Natalia- native (lat.). Option: Natalia. Naum- consoling (ancient Hebrew). Nellie- Derived from Neonilla. neonilla- young, new (Greek). Folk variant: Nenila. Nestor- old sage (Greek). In Russian nomenology, this name has existed for about a thousand years. From history, the monk Nestor is known - the compiler of one of the most ancient Russian chronicles, The Tale of Bygone Years. Nefed novice, newcomer (Greek). Option: Neophyte (obsolete). Nikandr- winner of husbands, daredevil (Greek). Nikanor- Seeing victory (Greek). Nikita glorious winner (Greek). Option: Nikifor. Nikifor- glorious winner, victorious (Greek). Nicodemus- winner of the peoples (Greek). The same as Nicholas (see). Nicholas- winner of the peoples (Greek). Folk variant: Nikola. Nina- there are three interpretations of this name: 1) dreamer, dreamer (from the Slavic verb ninati - "to doze off", "to dream"); 2) an abbreviated version of the name Antonina (see), often used in Spain; 3) the female version of the name of the Assyrian king Nina (the meaning is unclear). Nifont- snow-white (Greek). The ancient Greeks called the Caucasus with the word Nifantes - "Snowy". Nonna- ninth in the family (lat.). Oksana- hospitable. Ukrainian folk version of the name Xenia. Oleg- bright, clear, sunny (other Scandinavian). Wed female name Olga (see). Olympics- strong, fast, enduring (Greek). Weasel: Linden, Lima, Lily, Olya, Pia, Ada. Olga- light, clear, sunny, golden-haired (Old Scand.) Russified Norman Helga with the same meaning. The root "hel" was borrowed by the languages ​​of the Germanic group from ancient Greek: hel - "solar"; German hell - "light". The same as Elena. Another interpretation: holy (Varangian). Onesimus- beneficent, healing (Greek). Do not mix with consonant name Anisim. Onisia- beneficial, healing pain (Greek). Not to be confused with the name Anisya. Osip- diligent owner (heb.). Folk variant of the name Joseph. Hosea- an assistant who brings salvation (heb.). Ostap- stable, constant (Greek). The same as Eustathius, Astafius. Paul- small, graceful (lat.). Paul- small, graceful (lat.). Option: Polina. Paisios- merry fellow, dancer, joker. Another explanation: child, baby (both Greek). Palladium- invincible, talented, hardworking; lit.: the image of Pallas Athena - the goddess of victorious war, sciences, arts and crafts (Greek). According to legend, palladium was the amulet of the city of Troy for a long time, but after its abduction by Odysseus and Diomedes, Troy was defeated and destroyed. Pankrat- almighty, omnipotent (Greek). Panteleimon- all-merciful, one of a kind (Greek). Option: Panteley. Panfil- beloved, sweet, pleasant (Greek). Option: Pamphil (obsolete). Paramon- reliable, faithful, tenacious (Greek). Option: Parmen. Parmen- reliable, faithful, tenacious (Greek). Variant of the name Paramon. Parthenius- honest, well-behaved, unspoiled; lit.: like a girl (Greek). Option: Parfen. Parthenia- honest, pure, immaculate; lit.: virgin (Greek). patrickey- noble, noble; lit.: patrician (lat.). Option: Patricius (obsolete). Pahom- fat, plump, massive (Greek). Option: Pachomius (outdated). Pelagia- sailor (Greek). Option: Pelagia. Peter- solid, reliable; lit.: stone (Greek). Pigasius- inspiring, talented; lit.: winged horse (Greek). In ancient Greek mythology, the winged horse Pegasus knocked out the spring of Hippocrene on Helikon, inspiring poets. Pimen- supervisor; lit.: shepherd (Greek). Plato- powerful, broad-shouldered (Greek). Platonides- stocky (Greek). Polyeuct- longed for, long-awaited, desired (Greek). Folk variant: Poluekt. Polycarp- viable; lit.: multiple (Greek). Polyxenia- very hospitable (Greek). Pauline- small, graceful (lat.). Same as Paul. semi-project- longed for, long-awaited, desired (Greek). Folk variant of the name Polievkt. Porfiry- fair-haired, purple, crimson, (Greek). Potap- a stranger, a stranger, it is not known whose (Greek). Option: Potapy (outdated). Praskovya- thrifty, secured; lit.: Friday (Greek). Folk variants: Paraskovya, Paraskeva. Prov- honest, modest, decent (lat.). Proclus- glorious from a young age (Greek). Procopius- careful, vigilant; lit.: drawing a sword from its scabbard (Greek). Option: Prokop. Protogen- first-born (Greek). Prokhor- sang, merry fellow, dancer (Greek). Pud- perfect, honest, bashful (lat.). Pulcheria- beautiful, glorious, noble (lat.) Radomir- pleasing people, rejoicing about the world (glory). Raisa- carefree, careless, light (Greek). Raphael- healing, healing; lit.: God cured (heb.). Rimma- beautiful, pleasant; lit.: apple In the Hebrew nomenclature, this name was masculine. Robert- sparkling with glory (other German). Rodion- hero, hero, daredevil (Greek). Abbreviated version of the name Herodion. Another explanation: buying roses (Greek). Rose- pink, blush, rose (flower) (lat.). Novel- important, imperious, proud; lit.: Roman (lat.). Russian- Russian, son of Russia (Russian). Rostislav- multiplying the glory of the father (glor.). Ruslan- curly, happy, lucky (Greek). Another explanation: lion (Turk.). Option: Yeruslan (outdated). ruf- golden flower, red-haired (lat.). Rufina- golden-haired (lat.). Savva- man (Ethiopian). Another explanation: old man, grandfather (aram.). Savvaty- rich, joyful; lit.: born on Saturday (heb.). For Jews, Saturday is a holiday. Options: Savatiy, Savatey. Savely- desired, long-awaited; lit.: asked from God (heb.). Option: Savel. Samoilo- happy, fortunate; lit.: heard by God (heb.). Option: Samuel (outdated). Samson- strong man, strong man, daredevil; in the bible, Samson is the last of the twelve judges of Israel, who had an unprecedented physical force enclosed in his hair; lit.: solar (heb.). Svetlan- a person with a bright soul, blond (glory). Svetlana- bright, clean, clear (glor.). Svyatoslav- sacredly keeping his honor and glory (glor.). Sebastian- domineering, revered (Greek). Option: Sebastian. Severyan- strict, severe, hardened (lat.). Selivan- villager; lit.: forest (lat.). Option: Selifan (outdated). Among the ancient Romans, Silvanus is the god of forests and wildlife, the patron of cultivated agriculture and cattle breeding. Semyon- lucky; lit.: heard by God (heb.). Option: Simeon (outdated). Seraphim- fiery, hot, domineering (heb.). Seraphim, fiery six-winged angels - guardians of God's throne in a number of religions. Seraphim- fiery, burning (heb.). In a number of religions, seraphim are fiery six-winged angels guarding the throne of God. Sergey- ancient Roman family name; presumably: highly esteemed, respected; another explanation: watchman (both Latin). Option: Sergius (outdated). Sidor- farmer; lit.: the gift of Isis - the goddess of agriculture (Greek). Option: Isidore (obsolete) Force- strong, mighty (Russian). Another explanation: an abbreviated version of the name Siluyan (see). Siluyan- villager; lit.: forest man (lat.). The same as Selivan (see). Sylvester- villager; lit.: living in the forest or in the steppe (lat.). The same as Selivan, Siluyan (see). Folk variant: Seliverst. Simon- lucky; lit.: heard by God (heb.). The same as Simon. Snezhana- light, blond, snowy (slav.). Sozon- saving (Greek). Variants: Sozont, Sozonty (obsolete). Sofron- modest, restrained, prudent (Greek). Sofia- smart, quick-witted; lit.: wisdom (Greek). Option: Sofia (outdated). Spiridon- beloved, dear; lit.: gift of the soul. Another explanation: energetic, lively (both Latin), basket (Greek). Stanislav- claiming his glory (glor.). Stanislav- glorifying (glorious). Stepan- crowned, laureate; lit.: wreath (Greek). Option: Stephanie (obsolete). Stepanida- glorious, crowned; lit.: daughter of Stepan (see) (Greek). Taisia- the meaning is unclear. Option: Taisya. Tamara- slender, beautiful; lit.: palm tree (heb.). Taras- noisy, restless, fidget (Greek). Options: Taratiy, Tarasy (outdated). Tatiana- founder, mistress, organizer (Greek). Terenty- slender, smooth, graceful (lat.). Timothy- God-fearing; lit.: worshiping God (Greek). Timur- firm, persistent; lit.: iron (Turk.). Titus- honest, glorious, venerable (lat.). Tikhon- quiet, calm, peaceful (Russian). Abbreviated version of the Slavic name Tikhoneg. Another explanation: lucky (Greek). Tryphon- vociferous; lit.: three-voiced (Greek). Another explanation: rich, living in luxury (Greek). Trofim- breadwinner (Greek) Ulyana- ardent, hot, hot; the same as Julia (lat.). Option: Julia (outdated). Ustin- fair, indulgent (lat.). Options: Justin (outdated), Ustim (simple). Ustinya- fair, honest (lat.). Option: Justinia (obsolete). Thaddeus- glorious, persistent; lit.: spear of God (heb.). Faina- bright, radiant, joyful (Greek). Falaley- beautiful, full of strength; lit.: olive tree in bloom (Greek). Fevronia- the meaning is unclear (Greek). Options: Fevronya, Khavronya (simple). Fedora- the name has two interpretations: 1) militant; lit.: God's spear; 2) long-awaited; lit.: gift of God (both Greek). Women's version male given name Fedor. Fedot- joyful, desirable; lit.: gift of God (Greek). Fedul- God's servant (Greek). Options: Fedul, Theoduli (outdated). Felix- happy, rich, fruitful (lat.). Felicity- happy, rich, prolific (lat.). Colloquial variant: Great. Theodosius- joyful, desirable; lit.: gift of God (Greek). Option: Fedos. Feodosia- desired; lit.: gifted by God (Greek). Feofan- conspicuous, happy; lit.: marked by God (Greek). Folk variant: Fofan. Theophilus God-loving (Greek) Folk variant: Fefil. Theophilus - loving god(Greek). Folk variant: Fefela. Ferapont- hospitable, hospitable, ready to serve (Greek). Fedor- two interpretations: 1) militant; lit.: God's spear; 2) long-awaited; lit.: gift of God (both Greek). The same as the Russian name Bogdan. Thekla- glorious; lit.: God's glory (Greek). Filaret- strict moralist; lit.: loving virtue (Greek). Filimon- faithful, reliable; lit.: monogamous (Greek). Philip horse lover (Greek) Firs- joyful, good sign; lit.: a wand decorated with flowers and grapes (Greek). Flavian- golden-haired, red-haired (lat.). Phlegon- ardent, easily excitable (Greek). floor- blooming, fresh, beautiful (lat.). Flora was the goddess of flowers in ancient Roman mythology. This name entered the Russian name book in a slightly modified form: Frol. Fock- fat man; lit.: seal (Greek). Thomas- twin (aram.). Fortunat- lucky; lit.: marked by Fortune - the goddess of fate, good luck and happiness (lat.). Photius- light, blond (Greek). Frol- blooming, fresh, beautiful (lat.). Same as Flor. Hariessa- pleasant, charming (Greek). The same as Kharitina (see). Kharitina- graceful, beautiful, charming (Greek). In the mythology of the ancient Greeks, the Charites are the goddesses of beauty, grace and nobility. The same as the Roman graces. Khariton- charming, graceful, joyful (Greek). Kharlampy- bright, joyful; lit.: joyful light (Greek). Khionya- blond, blonde; lit.: snowy (Greek). Wed Russian name Snezhana. Chrysanth- golden; lit.: golden flower (Greek). Wed chrysanthemum flowers. christina- Christian (Greek). Christopher- bringing joy, healing. Another explanation: carrying Christ (both Greek). Chernava- dark-skinned, brunette (other Russian). Edward- keeper of wealth, rich man (OE). Eleanor- bright, clear, sunny (Old French version of the name Helene (Greek). The same as Elena. Elvira- protector (Goth.). Emilia- affectionate, cordial, hardworking (lat.). Emma- beautiful, precious, mysterious; lit.: depicted on precious stone, gemma (lat.). Erast- cute, charming, in love (Greek). Option: Erast (outdated). Ernest- serious, zealous (Old German). Juvenaly- youthful, characteristic of youth (lat.). Julia- ardent, hot; lit.: belonging to the ancient Roman genus Julius (lat.). The etymology is unclear. In Rus', this name is interpreted as "July", that is, hot. Yuri- farmer. Russian pronunciation of the Greek name George: George - Gyurgiy - Yuri. Jacob- presumably: stubborn, intractable (heb.). Yaroslav- bright, sunny, shining with glory (Russian). Formed from the words Yarilo - "sun" and glory. Yaroslav- brilliant, sunny (glorious). Formed from the words Yarilo - "sun" and glory. Based on the materials of the book “On the declension of names and surnames: a reference dictionary. Ser. "For a word in your pocket." Issue. 3 / Ed. E.A. Glotova, N.N. Shcherbakova. - Omsk, 2011 See more about Russian and foreign names: www. ruplace. en/ imenoslov/

Most male and female names. with whom we encounter daily are so familiar and well known to us that we perceive them as Russians, especially without thinking about their origin. In fact, the original Russians of them in modern society there are literally a few left. Really Russian names having Slavic roots, turned out to be eventually supplanted by Greek, Roman, Jewish, Scandinavian. This process has been going on for centuries and today most of the names borrowed a long time ago from other peoples are considered Russian, although in fact they have foreign roots.

It is almost impossible to determine the origin of the name and its roots intuitively, because in our perception such of them as, for example, Ivan, Peter, Fedor, Stepan, Mikhail, Vasily, Anna, Anastasia, Maria, Ekaterina, Varvara, Polina, etc. . must have Russian roots, but none of the above are Russian or Slavic in origin. They, like the vast majority of other modern male and female names, came to Russian culture from other peoples, respectively, they all have foreign roots. Let's take a closer look at the origin of female and male names, their history and meaning.

Slavic origin

Names Slavic origin can be considered truly Russian. Moreover, before the arrival of Christianity and the need to give baptismal Orthodox. in Rus', indeed, the vast majority of people bore names of Slavic origin. And there were a great many of them, of Slavic origin, in the old days, but only a few have remained in use to this day. Let us recall only a few known from antiquity, but today almost completely forgotten.

Ancient, having Slavic roots

meet today old names Slavic origin is almost impossible. They remained only in chronicles, old books and historical archives. For example:

Women's vintage: Bazhen, Blagolyub, Bogumil, Veselin, Golub, Zdrav, Porosh, Radomir, Yagodina, etc.

Men's: Belogor, Blagodar, Velidukh, Vozniak, Raven, Godun, Divlyan, Hare, Zlatan, Kudeyar, Putimir, Svoorad, etc.

Modern Slavic

There are not so many names of Slavic origin that are used in modern society. Among the male names of Slavic origin, there are many "glories", that is, names where one of the roots is the root "glory", and just a few other pieces.

Modern men's: Borislav, Bronislav, Vladislav. Vyacheslav. Izyaslav, Miroslav, Mstislav, Rostislav, Stanislav, Svyatoslav, Yaroslav, as well as Boris, Bogdan, Vladimir, Vsevolod.

Modern women's: Vera, Vlad, Lyudmila, Nadezhda, Svetlana, etc.

Roman origin

In ancient times, the Latin (or ancient Roman) language was quite widespread. Therefore, Roman names penetrated into the cultures of many peoples. Russian culture was no exception here, also significantly enriched by them. Over time, names of Roman origin gained the widest popularity in Rus' and still they enjoy well-deserved attention and love. Let's look at some of them and get acquainted with their meanings.

Men's roman

So, a few examples:

• Victor- translated into Russian as winner .
• Konstantin- derived from Latin word const whose value constant .
• Maksim- derived from the Latin word maximum, meaning greatest .
• Paul means small, younger .
• Sergey- translated meaning high, venerable .

Valery, Valentin, Roman and many others also have Roman roots.

Women's roman

And a few examples of female names of Roman origin.

• Marina- of Roman origin, the meaning of which maritime .
• Natalia means native .
• Valentine means healthy .
• Julia- translated as curly, fluffy .

Also of Roman origin is Angela, Valeria, Victoria, Inna and some others.

Greek

Among all modern Russian names, most of all are of Greek origin. It was they who were most often given as baptismal ones, which led to their wide distribution during the time of Christianity. Further, over time, people fell in love with them so much that today we practically cannot do without them. Let's look at examples of some of them of Greek origin.

Men's Greek

• Alexander means male protector .
• Artyom- its meaning unscathed .
• Basil- translated as royal .
• Kirill- has the meaning mister .
• Fedor means God's gift .

Also of Greek origin are: Alexei, Anatoly, Andrey, Dmitry, Eugene, Grigory, Gennady, Leonid, Nikita, Nikolai, Peter, Stepan, Philip, etc.

Women's Greek

• Anastasia- has Greek roots, the meaning of which resurrection, return to life .
• barbarian means foreigner, savage .
• Galina means tranquility, serenity .
• Catherine- translated as pure, unblemished .
• Irina- its meaning peace, tranquility .

They also have Greek roots. Alexandra, Elena, Zinaida, Zoya, Christina, Xenia, Lydia, Oksana, Polina, Raisa, etc.

Jewish

Jewish names also met quite often and are found in Rus'. And even seemingly "the most Russian" - Ivan - actually has Jewish roots. That is, they, as well as Greek and Latin, have quite widely merged into the Russian language, and today only detailed analysis name can determine its roots and sources. It was this analysis that was able to determine the Jewish origin of the following of them.

male jewish

• Daniel- of Jewish origin, which means God's judgment .
• Ivan(old John) - formed from the word yahweh, signifier god's gift .
• Ilya- derived from the Hebrew Elijah, whose meaning the power of god .
• Michael means like a god .

Women's

• Anna means grace .
• Elizabeth means vow to god, worshiping god .
• Maria- its meaning is interpreted in different ways: this and mistress. And darling. And stubborn And rejecting .
• Tamara- translated as savor or date palm .

Thus, it turns out that the Russian names that surround us have the most different origin, they came to us from different peoples and enriched Russian culture with their sound, content and meaning.

Consider the question of the origin of human names.

Proper names were isolated in ancient times. Even the Stoic philosopher Chrysippus (3rd century BC) distinguished names into a separate group of words. Today, the study of the proper names of people, the patterns of their emergence and development, their structure, functioning in society, distribution is engaged in anthroponymy ("anthropos" - a person, "onym" - a name).

People have always been given names. There are many legends and legends about how they arose. Here is one of them. In the distant time when Higher intelligence gave people speech, there was one language. Each word reflected the inner essence of things. Whoever knew the word gained power over what it meant. Chaos arose in the world, because people could not decide who exactly would rule and who would obey. Then the priests came up with other words for everything in the world, in order to prevent the uninitiated from using the true names of things for evil. higher knowledge turned out to be beyond the reach of the man. As a result, different languages ​​originated and the true language was hidden and then almost completely lost. So it is said about the language, words and names in the legends of many peoples. The same thing happened with the names of people.

People now had to invent names themselves. Moreover, in many cultures, the child was given two names - close to the present and the second, for general use, so that no one could harm the child, knowing his real name. Our distant ancestors understood that a name is not just the name of a person to distinguish him from others, but a kind of verbal formula that is somehow connected with the fate of a person and power over him. They tried to use it in different ways.

baby name traditions

In Indian and some African tribes given repulsive names to ward off evil spirits. Once upon a time it was believed that only the person himself and his parents should know the real name. IN Indian tribes the young man learned his real name only on the day he was recognized as an adult through meditation and communication with spirits and did not tell anyone. Old Indian shamans say that often this name could not be pronounced with normal sounds, it existed only as a mixture of image and sound.

The ancient Greeks gave the child the names of gods and heroes, hoping that the child would enjoy their favor and inherit their qualities and destiny. But calling children by similar names was somehow tactless, and dangerous - after all, the gods of the Hellenes lived very close - on Mount Olympus, were very similar to people and often communicated with them. They might not like such familiarity. Therefore, for everyday appeal to the gods, various epithets were used, which also transformed into names. For example, - the winner - the greatest. These epithets were called Zeus. Mars wore a laurel branch, hence the name Laurus. Many gods wore headdresses like crowns or diadems. Hence the name Stefan - crowned.

However, the tradition of giving children the direct names of the gods, although not the supreme ones, was also preserved in order to avoid their wrath for such impudence. The names Muse, Apollo, Aurora, Maya are still in use. Later, this desire became a Christian tradition to give names in honor of the righteous, canonized as saints.

In Rus', there was another tradition: which was real, - his parents, godparents and especially close people knew him. It combined the wishes for the baby, the hopes and aspirations of the parents, it reflected the love for the child and the desire for his happiness. Then the child was wrapped in a matting and carried outside the threshold, as if demonstrating to evil spirits that they had found an abandoned baby, which was not particularly needed. And they called him such a name that would scare away evil spirits and lull her attention. "They call Zovutka, but they call it a duck." It means what to call given name to a stranger was considered dangerous. What if the stranger was a sorcerer who could use the knowledge of the name for evil. Giving the child a dissonant and repulsive name, they hoped that the evil forces would not bother themselves with harming the unworthy, and also the plain name would not arouse the envy of the gods. The rite of the second name of the naming was carried out in adolescence when the main character traits were formed. The name was given based on these features.

However, the tradition of such naming did not take root. Yes, and a person who is constantly called not by his real name, but often acquired all the qualities inherent in this nickname. In such a situation, the name-amulet protected the person from who knows what. Since the name was not spoken out loud, it did not intercom with your carrier.

Names in Rus'

The influence of a name on a person and his fate has been noticed for a long time. At all times it was believed, and quite rightly, that the word that is chosen for the name with love will help in life. But at the same time, to give a name, to call, means to acquire secret power. IN different languages the emotional coloring of the word does not change, and what denotes something pleasant has a sound that is pleasant to the ear, and vice versa.

Thus, the origin of the name has a long history.

Before the adoption of Christianity in Rus', original names were used, created on Slavic soil by means Old Russian language. The Slavs chose to name their children any words that reflect in themselves:

• various properties and qualities of people, features of their character: Clever, Brave, Kind, Cunning;
• features of behavior, speech: Molchan;
• physical advantages and disadvantages: Oblique, Lame, Krasava, Curly, Chernyak, Belyay;
• the time and "order" of the appearance of a particular child in the family: Menshak, Elder, First, Second, Tretyak;
• profession: Peasant, Kozhemyaka, etc.

Similar names were also used by other peoples, it is enough to recall the names of the Indians that characterized the characteristics of a particular person: Eagle Eye, Sly Fox, etc. We had several other names, which later, with the adoption of Christianity and the consolidation of names in church calendars have become nicknames. Some of these nicknames have come down to us in the form of surnames: Cat, Beetle, Wolf, Sparrow. It should be noted that these surnames are quite common.

The influence of Christianity on naming

From the 11th to the 17th century Slavic names fade into the background, and the Byzantine-Greek ones come to the fore. With the advent of Christianity, a two-name system began to develop. In order to protect a person from evil spirits, he was called one name, but called a completely different one. This period is characterized by social stratification. At this time, common Old Russian names, which consist of two roots and contain the root -slav. These are such names as Vyacheslav, Svyatoslav, Yaroslav, Borislav, which were joined by Byzantine-Greek names with the same root: Bronislav, Miroslav, etc.

From the beginning of the 18th century until 1917, canonical names dominated, a three-term formula for naming a person (last name, first name, patronymic) was formed and spread, and a pseudonym appeared.

After the revolution, they gain great popularity. The formation of new names especially affected girls. So, they were called Idea, Iskra, Oktyabrina. There is evidence that one girl was even called the Artillery Academy. It was fashionable to call twins a boy and a girl Revo and Lucia; the names of the boys Genius, Giant are known (it is noteworthy that these names did not always correspond to reality, and often completely contradicted). However, at that time, names appeared that continue their lives to this day: Lilia (it is similar to a Russian name and very harmonious), Ninel (reverse reading of the name Lenin), Timur, Spartak.

The modern Russian name book includes many names of various origins. But still, names that we can rightly call Russian have a huge advantage. Although there are very few left. Over time, the original meaning of the names was forgotten, and in fact, historically, each name was a word or phrase of some language.

Almost all modern names came to us from Byzantium and have Greek roots in origin. However, many of them were borrowed from other ancient languages, or were simply borrowed from ancient Roman, Hebrew, Egyptian and other languages, and with this method of borrowing they were used only as a proper name, and not as a word denoting something.

The origin of the names goes back to ancient times and is covered with a layer different legends. The exact time when they began to distinguish the group "proper names" is not known, but already in the 3rd century BC, the philosopher Chrysippus attributed them to separate group words.

Imagine the time when people lived in caves, ran a joint household, knew nothing about medicine and the world outside their settlements. When a person only began to give a name to the things around him, he was surprised and studied the nature of being.

The first names were not invented specifically to refer to specific person, people used different words for this: the names of animals, natural phenomena, plants, seasons, celestial bodies, gods, etc. (Willow, River, Wolf, Rain). But ancient mysterious names were often given to people based on: character traits, appearance, lifestyle, features, behavior, etc. (Nose, Talker, Wanderer). Yes, the most A tall man in the settlement it could be called - Rock, and the quietest - Mouse.

People in ancient times began to understand that the name, given to man, can influence his fate in various ways. Then they began to choose names that would mean something good. In African and Indian tribes, children were called so that the name sounded repulsive, scaring away evil spirits and evil spirits.

Also in history, there was a rather frequent phenomenon when a child had two names: one was known only to him and his parents, and the other was a common one that everyone could call.

Few people know that in China, a child received his first name at birth, the second - when he entered school, and the third (adult) - after adulthood.

IN ancient greece parents named babies after heroes, gods, and important figures in history. They believed that then the child would inherit their greatness, strength and those qualities that the heroes possessed. But people, naming the child as one of the gods, often feared the Almighty. Therefore, for everyday appeal to the gods, they used a variety of epithets, from which some of the names known to us originated: Alexander - "defender", Victor - "winner", Laurus - "in honor of Mars", wearing a laurel branch, or Stefan, in Slavic languages turned into Stepan, which means "crowned", since many gods wore wreaths.

Sometimes, however, the children were named the same as the gods, but not the main ones, but the secondary ones: Aurora, Muse. Superstitious pagans hoped that the best qualities and abilities of these gods would pass to their child along with the name. And, perhaps, they hoped that the gods would even bring a gift to their family in the form of a good harvest or good health.

The history of the origin of names is not always as simple as it seems. We do not always know where this or that name came from. Even if we ourselves are its carriers.

Many people think that such names as: Maria (Masha), Ivan (Vanya) are primordially Russian. This is a delusion, because they, like many others, familiar to hearing, came from other languages ​​and peoples.

Among the widely used names, there are many that have Greek, Scandinavian, Hebrew, Latin and other roots.

After the adoption of Christianity and the departure of paganism, more and more foreign names with deep meaning began to penetrate into our culture: Nikita - "winner", Alexei - "defender", Elena - "bright", Eugene - "noble" and so on.

Perhaps we consider them to be primordially Russian, since they are often used in folklore, fairy tales and legends familiar to us from childhood.

But there is also a wide variety of original Russian names that have survived to this day: Lyudmila - “dear to people”, Yaroslav - “glorifying Yarila”, Vladimir - “owning the world”, Vsevolod - “owning everything”, Zlata - “golden” and even a huge the number of such examples can be found by studying the history of Rus'. Today, these names are gaining popularity again, because many want to return to authenticity. family values and the history of his people.

It is interesting and important to know that people with strange or very funny names more often than others suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.

Remember: it will always be useful to find out the origin, meaning and secret meaning nicknames. Knowing the historical names may help you understand yourself a little better. You will know what you are capable of, and, most importantly, you will be able to choose a name with a good story for your child. Do not forget that by naming a child, you endow him with certain qualities, so you should carefully approach the choice of a name and figure out where it came from.

The name of a person has always been given special meaning. The ancients believed that the name is the path to the soul. Knowing true name, given when entering adulthood, it was possible to jinx a person, bewitch, force him to serve his will. Therefore, everyone had two names - the true one was kept secret, and the person was called by the second, colloquial, which was more like a nickname and was given at birth.

Names in Rus'

This is how our ancestors called their children before the introduction of Christianity in Rus'. Some names were similar to nicknames: Lame, Lapot, Voropay (robber), others reflected the attitude towards the child born: Zhdan, Nezhdan, or the order of their birth: Pervusha, Tretyak, Odinets (the only one). Sometimes parents deliberately used seemingly completely inappropriate words for this as names: Woe, Sick. It was believed that such a name would ward off illness and evil eye from the kids. Echoes of nicknames have been preserved in Russian surnames: Zaitsev, Goryaev, Nezhdanov, etc.

These names are a thing of the past along with the baptism of Rus'. Their year after year, Christian priests-preachers went to towns and villages, talking about Christ and his fight against evil. Pagan gods, to whom newborns were previously dedicated, were equated with the forces of evil. Parents were taught that by naming a child Top or Birch, they give their souls to the devil, which means they deprive them of a chance for Salvation after death. Instead, pagan children were offered to name Orthodox names who came from Byzantium. Registration of newborn children was carried out only by the church, and the names were given according to the calendar (saints), in which for each day of each month the names of saints revered by the Russian Orthodox Church. A person who received the name of a saint gained not only his patronage, but also a grace-filled closeness to him: "By name - and" life ".

New names

This order continued for almost a thousand years, until it was interrupted. October Revolution. The Soviet government separated the church from the state, and the saints were forgotten. Now newborns were registered by registry offices, and parents got the opportunity to turn on their imagination at full capacity. On a wave of sympathy for the revolutionary transformations, Oktyabrin and Traktorin, Vladlenov and Markslen, as well as Revolutions and even Electrifications, began to be taken away from maternity hospitals.

Names in general have always been subject to fashion. When Zhukovsky took the pseudonym Svetlan (this name was invented by his colleague in the poetic workshop A. Kh. Vostokov), girls with that name began to appear in Russia. In the era of Europeanization, European (Roman Catholic and Protestant) names came to the Russian land: Herman, Zhanna, Albert, Marat, and others. A little later, more and more Eastern names began to appear: Zemfira, Timur, Ruslan, Zarema. In the middle of the 20th century, Slavic and Old Russian names began to appear again: Lada, Lyudmila, Vladimir, as well as Scandinavian ones: Olga (from Helg), Igor (from Ingvar).

Origin of popular names

If we analyze those names that are in use today, we will see that they are all of different origin. Most of the usual names have ancient Greek or Hebrew roots. For example, the name Ivan, the most familiar to Russian hearing, actually comes from the ancient Jewish John, the same origin for the name Maria. The name Cyril came from ancient Persia, Eugene from ancient Rome, and so on. Since they appeared in the Russian language a long time ago, they have become familiar to everyone.

Meaning of the name

Times pass, the fashion for names changes, Slavic names become either more or less in demand, but we still attach great importance to the name. And this is not surprising. From birth, we compare ourselves with other people, especially those who bear or have had the same name. Willy-nilly, we adopt some features, so we can say that the name has an impact on the fate of a person. It can help and inspire if it suits its bearer, but it can also press down if it turns out to be completely inappropriate. Therefore, when choosing a name for your baby, do it responsibly. Think about how he will live with this name, whether the patronymic and surname are combined with it, whether it is convenient to pronounce it. Often, pretentious names are perceived by others as too aggressive, on the other hand, nine Sashas in one class are also too much. It is important that the name reflects your love for the child, supports him and helps in life.

Discussion

At first, after the comments below, I was too lazy to read. And then she stuck her nose in and saw "new truths" - let's say - "In the middle of the 20th century, Slavic and Old Russian names began to appear again: Lada, Lyudmila, Vladimir, as well as Scandinavian ones: Olga (from Helga), Igor (from Ingvar) ".. .
Vladimir Ulyanov, from the point of view of the author of the article, was the owner of a rare name ... Shcha-az!
And all that has now become classical literature You can throw out the 19th century - the number of heroines with the name Olga, say, in Chekhov's - just rolls over, not to mention that that was his wife's name ... It was also a rare name, you say? Not true *-))
And we won’t even remember about Olga Larina, right?

And what? common truths once again?
Under such an "article" the author should be ashamed to even sign.

Comment on the article "Origin of Names"

It was once believed that when choosing a name for their child, parents also chose his fate. Perhaps that is why it is sometimes so difficult to choose a name for the baby - because you want it to bring happiness to the child. As a rule, parents look for a clue among the names of relatives or acquaintances. Someone looks into the calendar and looks for a suitable name there. Someone studies the characteristics of names and selects one that matches the wishes of the parents. It is even suggested to consult an astrologer or ask the baby himself ...

A popular game in our childhood, very loved by girls. The player strikes the ball on the ground, naming five names or objects of the chosen theme.

Bye fans BBC series"Sherlock" froze in anticipation of the third season, whose premiere is scheduled for January 2014, the performer of the role famous detective Benedict Cumberbatch does not leave the screens and covers of magazines. Thanks to Sherlock, having become an international star, this year Cumberbatch appeared in several notable projects at once. He played the lead role of the famous hacker and system fighter Julian Assange in the film The Fifth Estate, as well as the role of a positive planter in the film...

The name is like a name, I have a brother-in-law Timur. Slavic family. Baptized Timothy. The name is associated with the hero of Gaidar, and not with some nationality (what?) Well, there is such a perception of names and their origin does not really matter.

Discussion

The name is like a name, I have a brother-in-law Timur. Slavic family. Baptized Timothy. The name is associated with the hero Gaidar, and not with any nationality (what?)

I have a husband Timur. I really like the name. Before we met, I only heard this name from the film. Baptized as George

Choosing a name for a child: the meaning of the name, rare names, a combination of first name, patronymic, last name. Gordey, although consonant, is still a name of Greek origin. And Gordana is a daughter's classmate, a very nice girl, parents of a Rodnover.

It became interesting what this “name” means in general and where it came from. Material from Wikipedia - the free encyclopedia: Grandfather Pikhto is a character of Russian dialogic phraseological unit (proverb, reciprocal phrase), gradually penetrating into popular culture. The main, most convoluted form of this dialogical phraseological unit looks like this: “- Who? - Grandfather Pihto! ". The earliest known use in fiction refers to 1940, in the story of V. F. Avdeev “In our...

Anthropology is the study of man as high product on the ground. All characteristics of people can be explained only by their own natural occurrence. Anthropology emphasizes the unity of people and nature. The term anthropology is of Greek origin and in exact translation means the doctrine of man. Anthropology is a field scientific knowledge, the subject of study of which is a person. Based on a large number of areas of knowledge, we can say that anthropology, in a large sense ...

Now we are just in that exciting period when we need to find a name for such a long-awaited kitten. Various search methods are used: reading out all the names alphabetically with writing out the ones you like, viewing popular names, calendars, inventing offensive nicknames, a combination with a patronymic and a surname, as well as the sounding of a full name, IO and other abbreviations, inventing on behalf of patronymics (in case it is still a boy), reading forums discussing this, as it turned out, global ...

I collect seahorses (decorations, figurines, souvenirs, etc.). Wooden chests, chests, caskets I do not have divisions "Only for sale" and "What is worse for Exchange". The sales price is indicated in the passport, depending on the need for the Wishlist, I change the equivalent. If you really like something, say it. I’m ready to give up on many positions in price (although I initially set prices more than adequate) LOOKING FOR EXCHANGE: gift cards Tuppperware dishes easel daughter interesting accessories large photo album with ...

Lord! Look what we've become! We forget history. Take, for example, Erast Fandorin. We stopped calling children Erasts. I don't know, I haven't stopped. Why did they scratch my car? KVN, " Ural dumplings» (Yekaterinburg) Fashion for baby names is a rather interesting thing. In the last century, when our country was building communism in unison, Ulyanas (greetings to Vladimir Ilyich), Elinas, Oktyabrinas and, God forgive me, Dazdrapermas came into use. After, with a passion for French cinema at the beginning ...

Name and character, name and destiny, name and happiness - is there a connection between these categories, or are all these just stupid signs of illiterate people? And here, as with the influence of the rhythms of the moon, it's about your flexibility and openness to new things. The questions of the connection between name and destiny, the happiness of a person have worried people since ancient times. And not only worried. Our wise ancestors learned to use the energy of the name to influence the fate of a person. Since ancient times, the name of a person has been given the most important, often mystical ...

We continue the conversation about the meaning of a person’s name, its “naming”, and its influence on happiness, success, and the appearance of the character of its carrier. Very often we do not even think that the name that we bear, which we give to our child, carries a whole complex of vibrations, meanings, meanings. We have already mentioned that the name cultural phenomenon is rooted in ancient times and owes its origin to the need to distinguish members of a tribe, community, community from each other. First names...

Don't know about Romanian descent but that was the name of my mother's friend. Her parents (Baltic Germans) combined their names, Violetta and Eric, it turned out Viorica. I, like everyone around me, called my mother's friend Aunt Rika, although her husband called her Via.

Discussion

I am Viorica, and this is my peculiarity)) I am proud of my special name, unlike all simple hackneyed names)) friends either Riiika or Vio are shortened))

I haven't met Viorik. I can't tell if I like the name. It has not yet become a name for me) It seems that the name of the flower)))

Discussion

The description is clear, THANK YOU SO MUCH. If we still call ourselves Alena, will it be necessary to write Elena in the passport? Or is Alena already an independent name, like Arina?

There is a Greek name - Elena, everything else is derivatives in different languages ​​​​from the classic version

HERE! FOUND! There are two versions of the origin of the name Alena. the most common - on behalf of Elena, which means "luminous" in Greek. But there is a second version. And very reliable.

Discussion

Girls, hello everyone! I haven't hee-hee for so long. And like in a fairy tale - my name is Elena, and next to me ...... Thank you all

It doesn't have any meaning. Elena is short. I, like Elena, can’t stand this reduction :-)

In fact, there is a difference between the common names of some people and their national names by origin. And by origin to the Muslim (read, Arabic, Persian) by no means Julia, Lily ...

It seems to me that there is very little information in principle about the origin of names. Here I am, for example, about the name of interest to me everywhere I see two versions and nothing more. So, I guess I'm looking for something more in vain.