Boris Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationBOR-iss / /ˈbɔːrɪs/Slavic; Greek
Meaning
Slavic: 'wolf'; Greek: 'of the city'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Boris has its roots in the Slavic languages, deriving from the Old Slavic name "Borislav," which is composed of the elements "bor" meaning "battle" or "fight" and "slav" meaning "glory" or "fame." The name has undergone various transformations through linguistic evolution, entering the Russian language as "Boris" and subsequently being adopted into other Slavic languages. The earliest recorded use of the name can be traced back to the medieval period, particularly in the context of the Kievan Rus', where it was borne by several notable figures.
One of the most significant historical milestones associated with the name Boris is the life of Saint Boris, a Christian martyr and prince of Bulgaria, who was killed in the early 10th century. His veneration in the Eastern Orthodox Church contributed to the name's prominence in Slavic regions. Additionally, Boris Godunov, who ruled as Tsar of Russia from 1598 to 1605, is another key figure linked to the name. His reign marked a tumultuous period in Russian history, and he is often remembered in literature and opera, notably in Modest Mussorgsky's opera "Boris Godunov," composed in the 19th century.
Culturally, the name Boris has been associated with strength and leadership, resonating with the themes of valor and glory inherent in its etymological roots. The name has also been linked to various historical and literary figures, reinforcing its significance in Slavic culture. Diminutive forms such as "Borya" have emerged, reflecting the affectionate and familiar usage of the name in various contexts. Overall, Boris embodies a rich tapestry of historical and cultural significance, firmly rooted in the Slavic linguistic tradition.
Trend Summary
Boris has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with periods of increased interest, particularly among Eastern European communities.
Similar Names
Variants
- Borys
- Borislav
International Variants
- Boris (Russian)
- Borys (Ukrainian)
- Boris (Bulgarian)
- Boris (Serbian)
Famous people named Boris
Boris Becker is a former professional tennis player best known for winning six Grand Slam singles titles.
Boris Karloff is an actor best known for his role as Frankenstein's monster in Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, and The Mummy.
Boris Diaw is a former professional basketball player best known for playing with the San Antonio Spurs and winning an NBA championship.
Boris Yeltsin is a historical figure best known for being the first President of Russia after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Fictional characters named Boris
Boris Badenov is a fictional character from the animated television series The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show. He is a bumbling Russian spy who often attempts to thwart the protagonists' plans alongside his partner Natasha Fatale.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Boris was first seen in the United States in 1911. Boris has ranked as high as #1041 nationally, which occurred in 1970, and has been most popular in New York, California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Boris has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Boris (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1911 | 5 |
1912 | 13 |
1913 | 10 |
1914 | 19 |
1915 | 27 |
1916 | 35 |
1917 | 36 |
1918 | 44 |
1919 | 24 |
1920 | 29 |
1921 | 45 |
1922 | 40 |
1923 | 50 |
1924 | 37 |
1925 | 41 |
1926 | 33 |
1927 | 34 |
1928 | 29 |
1929 | 35 |
1930 | 33 |
1931 | 35 |
1932 | 34 |
1933 | 23 |
1934 | 28 |
1935 | 21 |
1936 | 15 |
1937 | 21 |
1938 | 12 |
1939 | 15 |
1940 | 11 |
1941 | 14 |
1942 | 10 |
1943 | 9 |
1944 | 7 |
1945 | 9 |
1946 | 12 |
1947 | 16 |
1948 | 9 |
1949 | 14 |
1950 | 9 |
1951 | 19 |
1952 | 26 |
1953 | 20 |
1954 | 20 |
1955 | 32 |
1956 | 38 |
1957 | 34 |
1958 | 43 |
1959 | 46 |
1960 | 37 |
1961 | 63 |
1962 | 76 |
1963 | 62 |
1964 | 63 |
1965 | 54 |
1966 | 61 |
1967 | 56 |
1968 | 59 |
1969 | 66 |
1970 | 82 |
1971 | 58 |
1972 | 54 |
1973 | 51 |
1974 | 54 |
1975 | 40 |
1976 | 43 |
1977 | 30 |
1978 | 35 |
1979 | 34 |
1980 | 31 |
1981 | 38 |
1982 | 36 |
1983 | 45 |
1984 | 38 |
1985 | 40 |
1986 | 36 |
1987 | 54 |
1988 | 36 |
1989 | 47 |
1990 | 54 |
1991 | 71 |
1992 | 65 |
1993 | 59 |
1994 | 65 |
1995 | 72 |
1996 | 50 |
1997 | 53 |
1998 | 62 |
1999 | 52 |
2000 | 56 |
2001 | 55 |
2002 | 59 |
2003 | 52 |
2004 | 65 |
2005 | 61 |
2006 | 65 |
2007 | 49 |
2008 | 73 |
2009 | 46 |
2010 | 47 |
2011 | 48 |
2012 | 47 |
2013 | 64 |
2014 | 54 |
2015 | 49 |
2016 | 47 |
2017 | 51 |
2018 | 52 |
2019 | 48 |
2020 | 50 |
2021 | 42 |
2022 | 34 |
2023 | 32 |
2024 | 35 |