A person’s name is the first thing that identifies him and distinguishes him from others. Many people are now keen on various interpretations of certain personal data, and the name is one of the first places here. There are even specialists who predict a person’s fate, character, and personal qualities by name. Therefore, it becomes very interesting how names appeared, what they were like at the very beginning, and how they transformed over time.
Ancient names
In the earliest ancient society, when people realized that it was easier to live together, the need arose from this “together” to call for one thing. It was not always possible to come up and knock on the back, but the vocal abilities were successfully developing. This is how primitive man learned to call his comrade in the voice, not the whole tribe, mind you, but one. And at this stage it was necessary to decide how to make it clear who exactly was being called. It turned out that everything is very simple. The man called words everything that was around him, and at the same time his comrades. The sun is Ra, which means the red-haired man in the tribe is also Ra. Water drips from the sky from a cloud - Give, so does the person whose eyes are always wet - Give. Everything was very simple, but we are wondering where the names came from!
Names of the first civilizations
During the birth of civilizations, the attitude towards name formation completely changed. Parents gave the child a name consonant with the qualities that they would like to see in their child. Vladimir rules the world, Svyatoslav glorifies the saints. These are Russian variants of names. In Europe and on other continents the same thing happened, only in other languages. In Greek, Alexander means conqueror, Paul means small, and Helen means bright. These names have come down to us, having undergone some minor transformations in sound, from the most ancient times, from the very birth of cultural civilizations.
Pagan names of the peoples of the world
Many nationalities came up with names for their children with meaning, hoping that the meaning inherent in the name would help the child throughout life. For example, do you want to know how the name Kizlyarbas appeared? It literally translates as “no more girls,” and was given by fathers to long-awaited boys born into Tajik families. The Semitic name Nebu-bulit means “Oh, heaven, give me life!”, a very telling name. But the girl named Dzedumilla was supposed to be sweet to her grandfather all her life.
The pagans also named children after some animal, so that the child would be similar in strength and dexterity to it. For example, the wolf, revered in many nations, gave the world many names derived from this word: Vuk, Vilk, Wolf, Lupul, Vovk, Wolfgang, Vilkolaz. And these are only European derivatives!
Modern names in Russia
Fortunately, the times have passed when in Russia, paying tribute to fashion, they called children completely unthinkable names! In the 40-50s of the last century, the male name Mels (Marx, Engels, Lenin, Stalin) was very popular. And what are Electrification, Oktyabrina, Cosmos, Iskra, Academy, Antenna, Vladlena (Vladimir Lenin) worth? And there were a huge number of such names. All this was a tribute to the times, no one puzzled over the question of why the names appeared, what should they mean? A blunder, and the name is ready. Then native Russian names and even non-Russian names began to return. But they were all really names, and not abbreviations invented on the topic of the day.
The directory contains brief information about the origin and meaning of some Russian names 
Accepted abbreviations: Arabic - Arabic Aramic - Aramaic Greek - Greek Gothic - Gothic Old English - Old English Old Hebrew. - Hebrew ancient German. - Old Germanic, other Persian - Old Persian, other Russian - Old Russian, other Scand. - Old Norse lat. - Latin Russian - Russian slav. - Slavic Turkic. - Turkic Ethiopian. - Ethiopian people - folk is simple. - colloquial obsolete. - outdated Augusta- venerable, majestic (lat.). Avdotya- sweet, glorious, supportive (Greek), Russian folk version of Evdokia. Avenir- light, shining; lit.: son of light (Heb.). Averky- secretive, hostile, rejecting (lat.). Folk version: Averyan. Averyan- secretive, hostile, rejecting (lat.). Folk version of the name Averky. Avksentiy- healthy, growing, blooming (Greek). Agapit- beloved, affectionate, dear (Greek). Agathon- kind, worthy, useful (Greek). Agafya- kind, good, noble (Greek). Haggai- funny; lit.: festive (ancient Hebrew). Aglaida- joyful, beautiful; lit.: daughter of Aglaia (Greek). Aglaya- cheerful, beautiful, important (Greek). In the mythology of the ancient Greeks, Aglaya is one of the Charites, the goddess of beauty, the joy of life, the personification of female charm. Agnes- pure, modest, immaculate; lit.: sheep (Greek). Agnia- pure, modest, immaculate; the same as Agnes (Greek). Agrafena- rural resident; Russian folk version of the name Agrippina (lat.). Agrippina- hard-working, trouble-free; lit.: peasant horse (lat.). Adelaide- noble, noble; lit.: daughter of Adele (Old German). Adeline- noble, noble; lit.: belonging to Adele (Old German). Adele- noble, noble (Old German), originally - Adella. Akakiy- meek, gentle, simple-minded (Greek). Akim- lucky, happy; lit.: God erects (ancient Hebrew). Option: Joachim (obsolete). Vernacular options: Ekim, Yakim. Akindin- faithful, reliable, not in danger (Greek). Aksinya- developing, healthy, blooming (Greek). Option: Auxinia (obsolete). Akulina- brave, proud; lit.: eagle (lat.). Folk version of the name Akilina (obsolete). Alevtina- cautious, unapproachable (Greek). Alexander- courageous defender, brave man (Greek). Alexandra- courageous protector (Greek). Alexei- intercessor, protector (Greek). Alyona- light, sunny, clear (Greek). Folk version of the name Elena. Alice- noble, noble (Old German), French and English version of the name Adelaide. Alla- presumably: ruler, mistress (Goth.). Albert- noble, famous (Old German). Albina- light, blond, happy (lat.). Ambrose- very pleasant, divine (Greek). Ambrosia is, according to the beliefs of the ancient Greeks, the food and drink of the gods. Amos- hardworking, hardworking; lit.: bearer of a burden (Heb.). Ananias- rich, lucky; lit.: God is merciful to him (ancient Hebrew). Anastasia- immortal (Greek). Anastatiy- resurrection, resurrected (Greek) Anatoly- clear, morning; lit.: eastern (Greek). Angelina- messenger, messenger (Greek). Andrey- courageous, brave; lit.: man (Greek). Andron- a real man; lit.: winner of husbands (Greek). Short version of the name Andronik. Anempodist- unstoppable, unobstructed (Greek). Anikita- lucky, invincible (Greek). Folk versions: Anikey, Anika. Anika is the hero of the ancient Russian poem "About Anika and Death". He had never been defeated by anyone before meeting Death. Hence the saying: Anika is a warrior. Anisya- lovely, perfect (Greek). Not to be confused with the name Onisya. Anna- beautiful, gracious, blessed (Hebrew). The same as Ioanna, the female version of the male name John, Ivan. Antip- replacement for father, shortened version of the name Antipater (lat.). Anton- An ancient Roman family name. The meaning is unclear. Presumably: a person with a light character (lat.). Antonina- cheerful, cheerful; lit.: belonging to Anton (lat.). Option: Antonida. Anfisa- blooming, bright, full of life (Greek). Option: Anthia. Apollinaris- handsome, smart, doctor; 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, prophecy, poetry and healing. Ardalion- fidget, busybody, 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, securing one end of it 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.: resident of Arcadia (Greek). According to the ideas of the ancient Greeks, Arcadia is a country of happy, carefree existence in the lap of nature. Arseny- a real man, lover (Greek). Artemy- big guy (Greek). Options: Artyom, Artyom, Artamon. Archelaus- ruler, leader of peoples (Greek). Arkhip- chief of horses, senior rider (Greek). Astafy- stable (Greek). The same as Eustathius (see). Folk version: Ostap. Afanasy- eternal, immortal (Greek). Folk versions: Afonya, Ofenya. Afanasia- full of life, immortal (Greek). Afinogen- smart, skillful, prosperous; lit.: born of Athena, goddess of sciences, arts and peaceful prosperity (Greek). African- dark-skinned, black-haired; lit.: African (lat.) Bogdan- given by God (Russian). In the old days, orphans adopted into other families were called Bogdans, if they did not know their name. Boris- fighter for glory (Russian); a shortened version of the Slavic name Borislav. Bronislaw- keeper of glory (glory). Bronislava- protecting glory, honest (glorious). Budimir- tribune, orator, peacemaker (glory). Vavila- a restless person, restless, rebel (ancient - Hebrew). Vadim- leader, teacher of the people (Russian); a shortened version of the Old Russian name Vadimir: from vaditi - “teach” and mir - “people”. Valentine- big man, strong man (lat.). Valentina- strong, healthy, invigorating (lat.). Valerian- calming, giving strength (lat.). Valery- strong, healthy, vigorous (lat.). Valeria- strong, healthy, cheerful (lat.). Varvara- foreigner, foreigner (Greek). Varlam- meaning unclear. Option: Varlaam (obsolete). Bartholomew- son of Tolmay, Ptolemy (Aram.). The meaning of the name Tolmay 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). Short version of the name Vasilisa. Venedikt- intelligently 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 entered the Russian name book as a translation of the Greek name Pistis. Veronica- lucky; lit.: victorious (Greek). Vivea- lively, fresh, ardent (lat.). Vikenty- victorious, excellent (lat.). Victor- winner (lat.). Victoria- victory (lat.). Virinea- young, blooming (lat.). Vissarion- Forest man; lit.: inhabitant of a forest valley - bessy (Greek). Vitaly- alive, healthy; lit.: life-giving (lat.). Vitalina- alive, viable, durable (lat.). Vladimir- ruler of the world, ruler (glorified). Russian version of the name: Volodimir. Vladislav- glorious, famous; lit.: possessing glory (glory). Vladislav- glorious, famous, venerable (glorious). Vlas- hairy, curly (glorious). A variant of the name of the ancient Slavic god Veles (Volos), the patron saint of domestic animals. Option: Vlasiy (obsolete). Boniface- kind, sympathetic, doing good (lat.). Vsevolod- rich, owning everything (Old Russian). Vukol- shepherd (Greek) Wed. expression: bucolic poetry is a type of literature that describes pastoral life in the lap of nature. Vyacheslav- most famous, most glorious (Old Russian). Gavril- strong, powerful; lit.: God is my strength (Hebrew). Options: Gabriel (obsolete), Gabriel (simple). Galaktion- blond, white; lit.: milky (Greek). Vernacular version: Laktion. Galina- quiet, calm, serene (Greek). Gennady- noble, son of respectable parents (Greek). Henrietta- hostess (Old German). Henry- master; lit.: owner of the estate (Old German). Georgiy- peasant, plowman, farmer (Greek). Folk versions of this name: Egor, Yuri (see). Gerasim- venerable, respected (Greek). Hermogenes- smart, hardy, efficient; lit.: born of Hermes (Greek). Hermes among the ancient Greeks was 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 shepherd's flute, the alphabet and numbers. Same as Mercury for the Romans. Glafiira- graceful, slender, courteous (Greek). Gleb- strong, healthy, brave (Old German). The Russian version of this name (Golob) is preserved in the name of a settlement in Volyn - Goloby. Glyceria- sweet, dear, beloved (Greek). Gordey- meaning unclear (Greek). In Ancient Greece, there was a legend about the farmer Gordia, who invented the wheel and made a cart. When the people of Phrygia elected him king, he founded the city of Gordion and donated his cart to the temple of Zeus. He tied the yoke to its shaft with a very complex knot. The oracle 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, protecting her glory (glory). Granislav- perfecting his glory (glory). From granite - “to polish” and glory. Granislava- improving its glory (glory). Gregory- awake, vigilant, cautious (Greek). Gury- a young man with beautiful eyes, handsome (Arabic). In Muslim mythology, Gurias are heavenly maidens, distinguished by their beauty. Another explanation: lion cub (Hebrew). Davyd- beloved, beloved (Hebrew). Option: David (obsolete). Danil- a fair person; lit.: my judge is God (Hebrew). Options: Daniil (obsolete), Danilo. Darina- a gift of fate (Russian). Another explanation: the same as Daria. Daria- rich, powerful (Old Persian). Dementy- joker, 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 representative; 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 cheerful folk gatherings. Dina- lively, agile, 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. Dobrogneva- fair in anger (glory). Dobromila- kind, merciful (glory). Dobroslava- famous for its kindness (glorious). Blast furnace- housewife, domineering, managerial; lit.: madam (lat.). Donat- long-awaited son, gift of fate (lat.). Dorofey- long-awaited, desired; lit.: gift of God (Greek). Evangelina- Bringer of good news (Greek). Eugene- noble, son of good parents (Greek). Evgeniya- noble, showered with sublime feelings (Greek). Evgraf- graceful, beautiful; lit.: written handsome (Greek). Evdokim- venerable, well-known (Greek). Evdokia- nice, kind, supportive; lit.: blessing (Greek). Eulalia- eloquent, possessing oratorical talent (Greek). Evlampius- light, shiny; lit.: blessing (Greek). Eulampia- bright, sunny, enlightened (Greek). Eularia- beautiful, charming singer (Greek). Eupl- excellent swimmer (Greek). Folk version: Evpol. Eupraxia- happy, prosperous (Greek). Evsey- pious, honorable, respected (Greek). Option: Eusebius (obsolete). Eustathius- calm, persistent, balanced (Greek). Options: Astafy, Ostap. Evstigney- noble, excellent (Greek). Evstolia- luxuriously dressed, rich (Greek). Eustratus- excellent warrior, strategist (Greek). Option: Evstratiy (obsolete). Eutyches- happy (Greek). Option: Euthytheus. Euphalia- lushly blooming, prolific (Greek). Euphemia- decent, friendly (Greek). Folk versions: Efimya, Ofimya. Egor- farmer, peasant (Greek). Russian folk version of the name Georgiy. Catherine- tender, meek, pure (Greek). Elena- light, clear, sunny (Greek). Options: Alena, Olena. Elizabeth- faithful, respectful; lit.: “I swear to God” (Hebrew). Elizar- friendly, helpful; lit.: God helped (Heb.). Option: Eleazar (obsolete). Eliconidas- talented, dedicated to the muses; lit.: resident of Helikon (Greek). In Ancient Greece, Helikon was the name of the mountain where, according to myths, lived the muses - goddesses who patronized the arts. Elisha- desirable, wonderful, beautiful (Greek). Wed. Elysium is a paradise in ancient mythology, the place of residence of the souls of the righteous. Another explanation: God helped (Hebrew). Emelyan- slender, respectable, serious (Greek). Another explanation: belonging to the ancient Roman family of Aemilii; presumably: zealous, diligent (lat.). Folk versions: Emelya, Omelya. Epifan- prominent, noble, glorious (Greek). Option: Epiphanius (obsolete). Erast- charming, sweet, amiable (Greek). Option: Erast. Eremey- exalted; lit.: exalted by God (ancient - Hebrew). Options: Jeremiah (obsolete), Erema (simple). Ermolai- happy, dexterous, eloquent; lit.: a person from the clan patronized by Hermes - the god of trade and profit, dexterity and eloquence (Greek). Erofey- happy, lucky; lit.: sanctified by God (Greek). Option: Hierotheus (obsolete). Efim- respectful, modest (Greek). Option: Euthymius (obsolete). Ephraim- viable, fertile (Hebrew). Euphrosyne- joyful, cheerful, funny (Greek). Zhanna – European version from John, Ivanna; see Ivan. Zakhar- lucky, happy; lit.: God remembers him (Heb.). Options: Zachary, Zechariah (obsolete). Zinaida- beautiful, divine; lit.: daughter of the god Zeus (Greek). Zinovy- long-awaited, desired; lit.: received life by the will of Zeus (Greek). Zlata- light-haired, golden (glorious). Zosima- vital, tenacious; lit.: marked with the sign of life (Greek). Zoya- alive, mobile; lit.: life itself (Greek). Ivan- handsome, rich, wonderful; lit.: grace of God (Heb.). The name Ivan, which has become synonymous with the word “Russian” outside Russia, comes from the Hebrew Yehokhanaan - “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.). Among the ancient Scandinavians, Ing is the “god of fertility and abundance”, Varr is “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. Russian princes with the name Ingvar appear more than once in Russian chronicles. Izosim- viable, marked with the sign of life (Greek). Folk version of the name Zosima (see). Hilarion- cheerful, joyful (Greek). Folk version: Larion. Ilaria- cheerful, joyful (Greek). Iliodor- gift of the sun (Greek) Ilya- faithful to God, strong, incorruptible; lit.: Yahweh is my god (Heb.). Inessa- pure, immaculate (Greek). Same as Agnes. The name Inessa came to the Russian name book from Spain. Innocent- honest, selfless, impeccable (lat.). John- beautiful, rich, wonderful (Hebrew). Same as Ivan (see). Job- persecuted (Heb.). Joel- the Lord God himself (Hebrew) (obsolete). And she- dove (ancient Hebrew). Options: Ion, Yvon. Joseph- diligent, helpful; lit.: grace of God (Heb.). Folk version: Osip. Ipat- tall (Greek). Option: Ipaty. Hippolytus- a rider who unharnesses horses (Greek). Irakli- 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 versions: Arina, Orina. Irinarch- peaceful ruler, peacemaker (Greek). Irenaeus- calm, peace-loving (Greek). Wed. female name Irina (see). Iroida- brave, courageous; lit.: daughter of a hero (Greek). Isaac- cheerful, funny; lit.: he will laugh (Heb.). Options: Isaac (obsolete), Isaac. And I- violet, levkoy (Greek). Kaleria- hot, ardent; lit.: flammable (lat.). Kalina- handsome (Greek). The Russian version of the name - Kalin - is found in fairy tales. Kallinik- 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- a reasonable person, leader; lit.: big head (lat.). Carp- viable; lit.: fruit (Greek). Kasyan- fair; lit.: belonging to the ancient Roman family of Cassiev, consuls and tribunes, distinguished by severity and justice (lat.). Option: Cassian (obsolete). Kelsius- mobile, lively (Greek); sublime (lat.). Kensorin- a stern moralist, a strict critic; letters belonging to the censor (lat.). Cyprian- resident of the island of Cyprus, Cypriot (Greek). Folk version: Kupriyan. Kirill- imperious, powerful (Greek). Kiryan- chief, lord, ruler (Greek). Option: Kyrian (obsolete). Claudian- belonging to Claudius (lat.). Folk version: Claudian. Claudius- lame (lat.). Claudia- shaky, unstable; lit.: lame (lat.). Clara- clear, glorious, famous (lat.). Clementius- meek, merciful, affectionate (lat.). Options: Clement, Klim. Clementine- meek, calm, affectionate (lat.). Option: Clementine. Kondrat- stocky, foldable; lit.: square (lat.). Option: Kondraty. Konon- (Greek). The meaning is unclear. In Ancient Greece there were known: Konon the naval commander (IV century BC), Konon the mathematician and astronomer (III century BC) and Konon the grammarian and writer, author of many stories about gods and heroes ( 1st century AD). Konstantin- persistent, decisive, unshakable (lat.). Roots- hard, hard; lit.: horn-like (lat.). Options: Cornelius, 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 has the same root as the modern words “space”, “cosmetics”. Lavrentiy- winner crowned with laurels; laureate (lat.). Folk version: Laver. Lada- sweetheart, beloved (Old Russian). Ancient Russians worshiped Lada, the goddess of love and marriage. The modern expression “harmony in the family” has the same origin as this name. Ladimir- peace-loving, getting along with the world (glory). 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- lovely, pleasant; lit.: seagull (Greek). a lion- powerful, brave; lit.: lion (Greek). Options: Levon, Leon. Leonid- lion cub (Greek). Leonty- courageous, strong; lit.: lion (Greek). Liberius- free, free, independent (lat.). Lydia- Asian; lit.: resident of the country of Lydia, Lydian (Greek). The ancient Greeks called Lydians not only Asia Minor, but also Ethiopians, Egyptians, and Libyans. Lily- blonde; lit.: white lily (lat.). Leah- slim, fast; lit.: antelope (ancient Hebrew). Login- high; lit.: long (lat.). Options: Loggin, Longin (obsolete). Luke- light, clear (lat.). Options: Lukyan (simple), Lukyan (obsolete) Lukerya- sweet, dear, beloved (Greek). Folk version of the name Glyceria. Lukia- light, shiny, fiery (lat.). Lupp- wolf (lat.). Lyubava- beloved, sweet, adored (Old Russian). We love- beloved, dear (Russian). A shortened version of the name Lyubomir (see). Love- beloved, adored (Russian). It entered the Russian name book as a literal translation of the Greek name Agape. Lubomir- peaceful, peace-loving (glory). Lyudmila- sweet to people, kind, sympathetic (Russian). Mavra- dark-skinned, brunette; lit.: Moorish (Greek). Makar- happy, contented, rich (Greek). Option: Macarius (obsolete). Maccabeus- stupid (Greek). Option: Mackay. Macrida- thin (lat.). Options: Macrina, Mokrida (simple). Maksim- great, greatest (lat.). Malachi- messenger of God (ancient Hebrew). Options: Malachi (obsolete), Malatheus. Mamant- presumably: sucker (Greek) (obsolete). Folk version: Mammoth. Manoilo- brave, lucky; lit.: God is with us (Heb.). Options: Manuylo, Immanuel, Emmanuel. Margarita- pearl, pearl (lat.). Maremyana- glorious, excellent (Hebrew). Folk version of the name Marianna. Marina- sailor; lit.: belonging to the sea (lat.) Maria- glorious, instructive, excellent (Hebrew). Option: Marya. Mark- ancient Roman family name; lit.: hammer (lat.). Another explanation: fading (lat.). Markel- hammer (lat.). Martin- warlike; lit.: dedicated to Mars, the ancient Roman god of war (lat.). Option: Martin (obsolete). Marfa- madam (Aramic). Option: Martha. Matvey- gift of God (ancient Hebrew) 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 version: Malanya. Meletius- caring, diligent, hardworking (Greek) Option: Melentius. Melitina- sweet, pleasant; lit.: honey (lat.). Merkul- fast, dexterous; lit.: from merchant rank (lat.). Derived from the Latin name Mercury. In Roman mythology, Mercury is the god of trade. Methodius- purposeful, consistent in one’s actions, methodical (Greek). Milava- sweet, pretty (Old Russian). Militsa- dear, beloved (slav.). Milo- sweet, gentle, wonderful (Russian). A shortened version of the Slavic name Miloneg. Miron- peace-loving, finding happiness in a peaceful life (Russian). A shortened version of the Slavic name Mironeg. Misail- desired; letters asked from God (Hebrew). Metrodor- 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 (Hebrew). Same as Mikhail (see). Modest- modest, calm, reasonable (lat.). Mokey- merry fellow; lit.: mocker (Greek). Option: Mokiy (obsolete). Muse- smart, talented, graceful (Greek). In ancient Greek mythology, there were nine muses, patron goddesses of sciences and arts: Euterpe - the goddess of lyrical poetry and music, Calliope - epic, Clio - history, Melpomene - tragedy, Polyhymnia - hymns, Thalia - comedy, Terpsichore - dance, Urania - astronomy, Erato - love poetry. Hope- faithful, reliable (Russian). Folk version: Nadezhda. The name entered the Russian name book as a literal translation of the Greek name Elpis. Nazar- devoted to God, monk; lit.: he dedicated himself to God (Heb.). Natalia- native (lat.). Option: Natalya. Nahum- comforting (ancient Hebrew). Nellie- came from Neonil. Neonilla- young, new (Greek). Folk version: Nenila. Nestor- old sage (Greek). This name has been around in Russian name books for about a thousand years. The monk Nestor is known from history - the compiler of one of the most ancient Russian chronicles, “The Tale of Bygone Years.” Nefed- newcomer, newly initiated (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- conqueror of nations (Greek). Same as Nikolai (see). Nikolay- conqueror of nations (Greek). Folk version: Nikola. Nina- there are three interpretations of this name: 1) dreamer, dreamer (from the Slavic verb ninati - “to doze”, “to dream”); 2) a shortened version of the name Antonina (see), often used in Spain; 3) the female version of the name of the Assyrian king Nin (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 Ksenia. Oleg- light, clear, sunny (Old Scand.). Wed. female name Olga (see). Olympics- strong, fast, hardy (Greek). Affectionate: Linden, Lima, Lilya, Olya, Piya, 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". Same as Elena. Another interpretation: holy (Varangian). Onesimus- beneficent, healing (Greek). Do not mix with the consonant name Anisim. Onisya- beneficial, healing pain (Greek). Not to be confused with the name Anisya. Osip- diligent owner (Heb.). Folk version of the name Joseph. Hosea- helper who brings salvation (Hebrew). Ostap- stable, constant (Greek). Same as Evstafiy, Astafy. Paul- small, graceful (lat.). Pavel- small, graceful (lat.). Option: Polina. Paisiy- merry fellow, dancer, joker. Another explanation: child, baby (both Greek). Palladium- invincible, talented, hardworking; lit.: image of Pallas Athena - the goddess of victorious war, sciences, arts and crafts (Greek). According to legend, palladium was for a long time an amulet of the city of Troy, but after it was stolen by Odysseus and Diomedes, Troy was defeated and destroyed. Pankrat- omnipotent, omnipotent (Greek). Panteleimon- all-merciful, one of a kind (Greek). Option: Panteley. Panfil- everyone's favorite, sweet, pleasant (Greek). Option: Pamphilus (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). Patrikey- noble, noble; lit.: patrician (lat.). Option: Patrick (obsolete). Groin- thick, well-fed, massive (Greek). Option: Pachomius (obsolete). 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, with a blow of his hoof, knocked out the source of Hippocrene on Helicon, which inspires poets. Pimen- supervisor; lit.: shepherd (Greek). Plato- powerful, broad-shouldered (Greek). Platonida- stocky (Greek). Polyevct- longed for, long-awaited, desired (Greek). Folk version: Poluekt. Polycarp- viable; lit.: multiple (Greek). Polyxenia- very hospitable (Greek). Pauline- small, graceful (lat.). Same as Paul. Half project- longed for, long-awaited, desired (Greek). Folk version of the name Polievkt. Porfiry- fair-haired, purple, crimson, (Greek). Potap- alien, stranger, unknown whose (Greek). Option: Potapiy (obsolete). Praskovya- thrifty, wealthy; lit.: Friday (Greek). Folk versions: 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- firstborn (Greek). Prokhor- sang, merry fellow, dancer (Greek). Pud- perfect, honest, bashful (lat.). Pulcheria- beautiful, glorious, noble (lat.) Radomir- making people happy, caring for the world (glorified). Raisa- carefree, carefree, easy (Greek). Rafail- doctor, healing; lit.: God healed (Heb.). Rimma- beautiful, pleasant; lit.: apple. In the Hebrew name book this name was masculine. Robert- sparkling with glory (Old German). Rodion- hero, hero, daredevil (Greek). Short version of the name Herodion. Another explanation: buying roses (Greek). Rose- pink, ruddy, rose (flower) (lat.). Novel- important, powerful, proud; lit.: Roman (lat.). Rossian- Russian, son of Russia (Russian). Rostislav- multiplying the glory of the father (glory). Ruslan- curly, happy, lucky (Greek). Another explanation: lion (Turkic). Option: Eruslan (obsolete). Rufus- golden flower, red (lat.). Rufina- golden-haired (lat.). Savva- person (Ethiopian). Another explanation: elder, 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, lucky; lit.: heard by God (Heb.). Option: Samuel (obsolete). Samson- strong man, strong man, daredevil; in the Bible, Samson is the last of the twelve judges of Israel, who possessed unprecedented physical strength contained in his hair; lit.: sunny (Heb.). Svetlana- a bright-hearted person, blond (glorious). Svetlana- light, clean, clear (glorious). Svyatoslav- sacredly preserving her honor and glory (glory). Sebastian- powerful, revered (Greek). Option: Sebastian. Severyan- strict, harsh, seasoned (lat.). Selivan- peasant; lit.: forest (lat.). Option: Selifan (obsolete). Among the ancient Romans, Silvanus was the god of forests and wildlife, the patron of cultivated agriculture and cattle breeding. Semyon- lucky; lit.: heard by God (Heb.). Option: Simeon (obsolete). Seraphim- fiery, hot, domineering (Hebrew). Seraphim, fiery six-winged angels, are the guardians of God's throne in a number of religions. Seraphim- fiery, burning (Hebrew). In a number of religions, seraphim are fiery six-winged angels guarding the throne of God. Sergey- ancient Roman family name; presumably: highly respected, respected; another explanation: watchman (both Latin). Option: Sergius (obsolete). Sidor- farmer; lit.: gift of Isis - the goddess of agriculture (Greek). Option: Isidore (obsolete) Force- strong, mighty (Russian). Another explanation: a shortened version of the name Siluyan (see). Siluyan- peasant; lit.: forest man (lat.). Same as Selivan (see). Sylvester- peasant; lit.: living in the forest or in the steppe (lat.). Same as Selivan, Siluyan (see). Folk version: Seliverst. Simon- lucky; lit.: heard by God (Heb.). Same as Semyon. Snezhana- light, blond, snowy (glorious). Sozon- saving (Greek). Options: Sozont, Sozontii (obsolete). Sofron- modest, reserved, prudent (Greek). Sophia- smart, quick-witted; lit.: wisdom (Greek). Option: Sofia (obsolete). Spiridon- beloved, dear; lit.: gift of the soul. Another explanation: energetic, lively (both Latin), basket (Greek). Stanislav- asserting his glory (glory). Stanislava- glorifying (glorious). Stepan- crowned, laureate; lit.: wreath (Greek). Option: Stefaniy (obsolete). Stepanida- glorious, crowned; lit.: daughter of Stepan (see) (Greek). Taisiya- meaning unclear. Option: Taisya. Tamara- slim, beautiful; lit.: palm tree (Heb.). Taras- noisy, restless, restless (Greek). Options: Taratiy, Tarasiy (obsolete). Tatiana- founder, ruler, organizer (Greek). Terenty- slender, smooth, graceful (lat.). Timofey- God-fearing; lit.: worshiping God (Greek). Timur- firm, persistent; lit.: iron (Turk.). Titus- honest, nice, respectable (lat.). Tikhon- quiet, calm, peaceful (Russian). A shortened version of the Slavic name Tikhoneg. Another explanation: lucky (Greek). Tryphon- vocal; lit.: three-voiced (Greek). Another explanation: rich, living in luxury (Greek). Trofim- breadwinner (Greek) Ulyana- ardent, hot, hot; the same as Julia (lat.). Option: Juliania (outdated). Ustin- fair, lenient (lat.). Options: Justin (obsolete), Ustim (simple). Ustinya- fair, honest (lat.). Option: Justinia (obsolete). Thaddeus- glorious, persistent; lit.: spear of God (ancient Hebrew). Faina- bright, shining, joyful (Greek). Falalei- beautiful, full of strength; lit.: olive in bloom (Greek). Fevronia- meaning unclear (Greek). Options: Fevronya, Khavronya (simple). Fedora- the name has two interpretations: 1) warlike; lit.: god's spear; 2) long-awaited; lit.: gift of God (both Greek). The female version of the male name Fedor. Fedot- joyful, desirable; lit.: gift of God (Greek). Fedul- servant of God (Greek). Options: Fedul, Theodulius (obsolete). Felix- happy, rich, fruitful (lat.). Felicata- happy, rich, fertile (lat.). Vernacular version: Velichata. Theodosius- joyful, desirable; lit.: gift of God (Greek). Option: Fedos. Feodosia- desired; lit.: given by God (Greek). Feofan- noticeable, happy; lit.: marked by god (Greek). Folk version: Fofan. Theophilus- loving God (Greek). Folk version: Fefil. Theophila- loving God (Greek). Folk version: Fefela. Ferapont- hospitable, welcoming, ready to serve (Greek). Fedor- two interpretations: 1) warlike; lit.: god's spear; 2) long-awaited; lit.: gift of God (both Greek). Same as the Russian name Bogdan. Thekla- glorious; lit.: God's glory (Greek). Filaret- strict moralist; lit.: loving virtue (Greek). Philemon- faithful, reliable; lit.: monogamous (Greek). Philip- lover of horses (Greek). Firs- a joyful, good sign; lit.: a rod decorated with flowers and grapes (Greek). Flavian- golden-haired, red-haired (lat.). Phlegont- ardent, easily excitable (Greek). Flor- blooming, fresh, beautiful (lat.). In ancient Roman mythology, there was a goddess of flowers, Flora. This name entered the Russian name book in a slightly modified form: Frol. Foka- fat man; lit.: seal (Greek). Thomas- twin (Aramic). Fortunatus- lucky; lit.: marked by Fortuna - the goddess of fate, luck and happiness (lat.). Photius- light, blond (Greek). Frol- blooming, fresh, beautiful (lat.). Same as Flor. Hariessa- pleasant, lovely (Greek). Same as Kharitina (see). Kharitina- graceful, beautiful, lovely (Greek). In the mythology of the ancient Greeks, the Charites are the goddesses of beauty, grace and nobility. Same as the Roman Graces. Khariton- lovely, graceful, joyful (Greek). Kharlampy- bright, joyful; lit.: joyful light (Greek). Khionya- blond, blonde; lit.: snowy (Greek). Wed. Russian name Snezhana. Chrysanthos- golden; lit.: golden flower (Greek). Wed. chrysanthemum flowers. Christina- Christian (Greek). Christopher- bringing joy, healing. Another explanation: bearer of Christ (both Greek). Chernava- dark-skinned, brunette (Old Russian). Edward- keeper of wealth, rich man (Old English). Eleanor- light, clear, sunny (Old French version of the name Helene (Greek). Same as Elena. Elvira- protector (Goth.). Emilia- affectionate, warm-hearted, hardworking (lat.). Emma- beautiful, precious, mysterious; lit.: depicted on a precious stone, gemma (lat.). Erast- sweet, charming, in love (Greek). Option: Erast (obsolete). Ernest- serious, diligent (Old German). Juvenaly- youthful, characteristic of youth (lat.). Julia- ardent, hot; lit.: belonging to the ancient Roman family of Julius (lat.). The etymology is unclear. In Rus', this name is interpreted as “July”, that is, hot. Yuri- farmer. Russian vowel of the Greek name Georgiy: Georgiy - Gyurgii - Yuri. Yakov- presumably: stubborn, intractable (Hebrew). Yaroslav- bright, sunny, shining with glory (Russian). Derived from the words Yarilo - “sun” and glory. Yaroslav- brilliant, sunny (glorious). Derived from the words Yarilo - “sun” and glory. Based on materials from the book “On the Declension of First and Last Names: A Dictionary-Reference Book. Ser. “For the word in your pocket.” Vol. 3 / Ed. E.A. Glotova, N.N. Shcherbakova. – Omsk, 2011 See more about Russian and foreign names: www.
ruplace.
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imenoslov/
3rd grade (UMK “Primary school of the XXI century”)
Form: lesson - research
Goals:
Educational
Introduce children to the history of the origin of names, patronymics, and surnames; explain their origin.
Expand children's knowledge about the variety of names, about the concepts: namesakes, namesakes; “reveal” the secrets of the child’s name.
Educational
Cultivate a sense of pride in your surname, in your region.
To cultivate positive personality traits in children (attention to each other, the ability to listen to comrades);
Developmental
develop positive motivation for work and communication in a group; promote the formation of a class team;
Advance homework:
Learn the poem “Eight Tans” by Z. Alexandrova;
Ask your parents about your name (its meaning and who the child is named after).
Progress of the lesson
1. Organizational moment.
2. Updating knowledge.
Guys, today we will talk about a very interesting topic, but which one we will now find out...
Please imagine this situation. You find yourself in an unfamiliar company or remember the situation when you came to our school for the first time in first grade.
What was the first thing the teacher did so that you would not feel lonely, so that you would feel comfortable in the new team? She introduced you to each other so that you could quickly get used to it and find friends.
Guess the riddle - what belongs to you, but others use it more often than you? The answer is the name.
At birth, every baby first receives a NAME from its parents.
You and I all live in a world of names. No wonder Homer wrote in his “Odyssey”:
Among living people, no one is nameless at all;
At the moment of birth, everyone, both low and noble,
He receives his name as a sweet gift from his parents...
3. Creation of a problematic situation.
1. So, what are we going to talk about in class today? Yes, as you already guessed, we will talk about the person’s name, and also about the surname and patronymic. That is, we will get to know you better by learning the secrets of your names.
4. Work on the topic.
People say:
It is not the name that makes a person beautiful, but the person who makes the name (Russian proverb)
It is better to lose your eyes than your good name (Russian proverb)
And in Japan, the sages say: a tiger protects its skin, but a man protects his name.
Guys, guests came to us today, and they don’t know us. Let's introduce ourselves to them...
So, you say your name and tell who called you that and why. (Children say the name and briefly talk about themselves. Read the meaning of the name from the cards.)
You all have very beautiful names. Our names can be called differently; we use in our speechfull Andabbreviated names. What names do you thinkfull orabbreviated calledadults of people? Achildren ? Why do we treat ourselves this way depending on our age?
TOadults, because they want to emphasize their respect, make their address to the person more polite. TOchildren , because they are called by diminutive names and affection.
Here is the full name - Tatyana. What do you think the parents might have called her when the girl was little?
The children answer: Tatyanka, Tanechka, Tanyusha, Tanyushka, Tanya, Tanya...
Now you form full names from abbreviated names:
Sasha - Alexander
Alyosha - Alexey
Kolya - Nikolay
Ksyusha - Ksenia
Olya - Olga
Vika - Victoria
Igor - These names were left without a pair. And why?
Nina - Because they are used only in one form.
Now let's talk about male and female names. List the girls' names in one column and the boys' names in the second.
SVETA, KOLYA, ZHENYA, PETYA, LYUDA
Why is the name ZHENYA interesting? It can be classified as a male or female name. Since the abbreviated name ZHENYA does not indicate to us who we are talking about.
What would a man's full name sound like? -Eugene.
And the female one is Evgenia.
What other “double” names can you give as an example?
VALYA - VALENTIN, VALENTINA
SASHA - ALEXANDER, ALEXANDRA
Do you think there is a female pair for the male name Fedor?
In Korney Chukovsky’s fairy tale “Fedorino’s Grief,” the heroine’s name is Fedora.
Now this name is rare.
And now a competition of tongue twisters is being announced, in which there are male and female names.
Who do you think they callnamesakes? People who have the same names. Read about the namesake in an excerpt from Zinaida Alexandrova’s poem “Eight Tans”.
In first grade there are eight Tan -
This is downright punishment!
After all, wherever you look, they
Everywhere Tanya, Tanya, Tanya!
If they say: “Tanya, get up!”
Eight Tans will immediately stand up.
But it can be very simple
Understanding newbies...
How can you tell these girls apart? By last name.
Are there any namesakes in our class?
At birth, every person receives not only a first name, but also a surname, which is borne by all members of his family. However, not only relatives have the same surnames. What are these people called? (Children answer -namesakes ).
Which writers of the same name do you know? (Children answer - Lev Tolstoy and Alexei Tolstoy)
Physical education
I have musical riddles for you. We will dance to the music and guess what name the song is about.
Now look at the board and notice why I wrote these two different words differently. (On the board: Lev and lion).Have you ever heard such a name? Since ancient times, in the understanding of people, a name was not a simple word, but a way to determine a person’s character, his destiny. And if parents call their son Leo, then they really want him to have the quality of the king of beasts, to be brave and strong. From early childhood, people were called: firstly, by appearance (Mal, Bel, Chernysh), secondly, by character trait (Kind, Brave, Nesmeyana), thirdly, by place in the family (Zhdan, Tretyak, Other) , fourthly, by the name of animals, plants, natural phenomena (Ram, Oak, Wolf).
Think about which of the flower names could be names?
CHAMOMILE, LILY OF THE LILY, CALVE, ROSE, LILY
Think about why some parents used flower names as female names? Probably because they wanted to see their girls beautiful and tender.
Distribute into the appropriate columns the surnames that were formed from: professions, character traits, names of animals and plants (work in pairs)
Children are given cards with names.Here are the names of ordinary Russian people who lived in the XIV, XV, XVI centuries. Think about why they were called that? (work in groups)
Let's imagine this situation: 2 people are namesakes and, moreover, namesakes. How can they be distinguished then?
That's right, by patronymic. This word means “paternal name.” When you grow up, you will be addressed by your first name and patronymic. Say it out loud, what will they call you? (Children take turns saying their first and middle names out loud.)
State the first and last names of your parents, grandparents. (Children also take turns saying the names and patronymics of their grandparents).
Have you read epics about the hero Ilya Muromets?
What do you think, is Muromets a surname or patronymic? Let's remember the words of the epic:
Dust rises in an open field,
Ilya Muromets, son Ivanovich,
Approaching Solovyov's nest...
How to call the hero by his first name and patronymic? Ilya Ivanovich. And the surname Muromets came from the name of the city where he was from. Ilya Muromets from the city of Murom.
There are names of surnames that come from the names of villages and hamlets. What surnames will come from the names of villages and hamlets?
With. Krylovo - Krylovs
With. Bogomyagkovo - Bogomyakovs
With. Kozlovo - Kozlovy
With. Mazunino - Mazunins
With. Petukhovo - Petukhovy
With. Drachevo - Drachevy
5. Reflection.
What new did you learn in the lesson? What did you like and what do you remember?
You have one name.
It is given forever.
Life is long, and that's why
You take care of him...
“History of the surname” - The basis of the surname Nikitin was the church name Nikita. There are many outstanding scientists. Tver merchant Afanasy Nikitin. Chekhov Anton Pavlovich. The surname is of great importance for every person. Origin of the surname of the composer Rimsky-Korsakov. The ancient surname Nikitin is one of the most popular today.
“The meaning of the name” - MARIA The meaning of the name is “bitter”, “beloved”, “stubborn” (Hebrew). Katya is a social soul, charming, open. Makarov Venya. He loves to play hopscotch and sunbathe in the sun. Kolya has loved running and cycling since childhood. Venya has grown kind since childhood and is always ready to help. EUGENE The meaning of the name is “Noble” (ancient Greek).
“Name for a child” - Eskimos changed their name even after an unsuccessful hunt. To lift the veil of secrecy in the history of names. Bibliography. Enrich your knowledge in the field of proper names. And in order for the cramp to go away, you need to say the name of your father. Ermoshka is rich: he has a ram and a cat. Where do the names in the periodic table come from? The same thing happens when people exchange names.
“Origin of the surname” is a Russified version of the Ossetian name Dzekh; Polish origin; Old Russian origin. Distribution of surnames in Europe (X-XI centuries). Surnames were given from the names of church parishes (Uspensky, Trinity, Epiphany). Poor people. Distribution of surnames in Europe (XV century). Fig.6. Assumption Cathedral, Moscow.
“Name” - What do you know about your names? Which great person had this name? How has the list of the most popular and rarest names changed throughout history? Who comes up with the names? Are there any documents containing a list of names? Where did your name come from? Which of those with this name do you consider the most outstanding and why?
“What does the name mean” - What does your name mean? The name Olga is of Scandinavian origin. The name Tatyana comes from the word Tatius - from the name of the Sabine king. The Latin name for rose, which has become a feminine name. The role of a name in a person’s life is very great. The name Alina is quiet and calm. Another name given to the ancient tribes that lived in the European part of Russia was Alyon.
Proper names were identified in ancient times. Of course, it is impossible to find witnesses who would confirm this, but even the Stoic philosopher Chrysippus (c. 280–208/205 BC) identified names as a separate group of words. Today, the study of people’s proper names, the patterns of their origin and development, their structure, functioning in society, and distribution is dealt with by anthroponymy (“anthropos” - person, “onym” - name). People's proper names are called anthroponyms.
People have always been given names. There are many legends and traditions about how they arose. Here is one of them. In ancient times, when the Higher Mind gave speech to people, there was one language. Each word reflected the inner essence of things. Anyone who knew a word gained power over what it meant. Chaos arose in the world because people could not decide who would govern 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 man. As a result, different languages arose and the true language was hidden and then almost completely lost. This is what is said about language, words and names in the legends of many nations. The same thing happened with people's names.
People now had to come up with names themselves. Moreover, in many cultures, a child was given two names - one close to the real one and a second one, for general use, so that no one could, knowing the real name, harm the child. 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.
Indian and some African tribes gave repulsive names in order to ward off evil spirits. Once upon a time it was believed that only the person himself and his parents should know his real name. In Indian tribes, a 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 a 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 even 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 reference to the gods, various epithets were used, which were also transformed into names. For example, Victor is the winner, Maxim is the greatest. These epithets were used to call Zeus. Mars carried a laurel branch, hence the name Laurus. Many gods wore headdresses such as crowns or tiaras. This is where the name Stefan - crowned - comes from.
However, the tradition of giving children direct names of gods, although not supreme ones, has also been preserved, in order to avoid their anger for such impudence. The names Muse, Apollo, Aurora, Maya are still in use. Later, this desire became a Christian tradition of giving names in honor of righteous people canonized as saints.
In Rus' there was another tradition: the parents gave the newborn a name that 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 love for the child and the desire for his happiness. Then the child was wrapped in a matting and carried out of the threshold, as if demonstrating to the evil spirits that they had found an abandoned baby who was not particularly needed. And they called him a name that would scare away the evil spirits and lull their attention. “They call me Zovutka, but they call me a duck.” This means that telling your own name to a stranger was considered dangerous. What if the stranger was a sorcerer who could use knowledge of the name for evil. By giving the child a dissonant and repulsive name, they hoped that evil forces would not bother themselves with causing harm to the unworthy, and also that a nondescript name would not arouse the envy of the gods. 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.
However, the tradition of such naming did not take root. And a person who was constantly called not by his real name, but by a nickname, often acquired all the qualities characteristic of this nickname. In such a situation, the name-amulet protected the person from unknown reasons. Since the name was not spoken out loud, it had no internal connection with its bearer.
The influence of a name on a person and his fate has been noticed for a long time. It has always been believed, and quite rightly, that a word chosen for a name with love will help in life. But at the same time, giving a name, naming it means gaining secret power. The emotional connotation of a word does not change in different languages, and what means something pleasant has a sound that is pleasant to the ear, and vice versa.
Thus, the development of the name has a long history. Before the adoption of Christianity in Rus', original names were used, created on Slavic soil using the Old Russian language. The Slavs chose any words to name their children that reflected the various properties and qualities of people, the characteristics of their character: Clever, Brave, Kind, Cunning; features of behavior and speech: Molchan; physical advantages and disadvantages: Oblique, Lame, Krasava, Kudryash, Chernyak, Belyai; the time and “order” of the appearance of a particular child in the family: Menshak, Elder, First, Second, Tretyak; profession: Villager, Kozhemyaka and much more. Similar names were also used by other peoples; it is enough to recall the names of the Indians, which 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, became into 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 very common.
From the 11th to the 17th centuries, native Slavic names fade into the background, and 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 given one name and called a completely different one. This period is characterized by social stratification. At this time, Old Russian names were common, which consist of two roots and contain the root -slav. These are names such as Vyacheslav, Svyatoslav, Yaroslav, Borislav, which were joined by Byzantine-Greek names with the same root: Stanislav, Bronislav, Miroslav, etc.
From the beginning of the 18th century until 1917, canonical names dominated, a three-part formula for naming a person (last name, first name, patronymic) developed and spread, and a pseudonym appeared.
After the revolution, newly created names reflecting the events taking place in the country became very popular. The formation of new names especially affected girls. So, they were called Idea, Iskra, Oktyabrina. There is evidence that one girl was even called Artillery Academy. It was fashionable to call twin boys and girls Revo and Lucia; the names of the boys are known: Genius, Giant (it is noteworthy that these names did not always correspond to reality, and often completely contradicted). However, at this time names appeared that continue to live now: Lilia (it is similar to the Russian name Lydia and is very euphonious), Ninel (reading the name Lenin in reverse order), Timur, Spartak.
The modern Russian name book includes many names with different origins. But still, names that we can now rightfully call Russian have a huge advantage. Although there are very few actual Russian names left. Over time, the original meaning of names was forgotten, but historically each name was a word or phrase of some language. Almost all modern names came to us from Byzantium and have Greek roots, but 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 meaning anything.
