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Boris Boy

Popularity: #889 · Trend: ↘ Falling

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)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19115
191213
191310
191419
191527
191635
191736
191844
191924
192029
192145
192240
192350
192437
192541
192633
192734
192829
192935
193033
193135
193234
193323
193428
193521
193615
193721
193812
193915
194011
194114
194210
19439
19447
19459
194612
194716
19489
194914
19509
195119
195226
195320
195420
195532
195638
195734
195843
195946
196037
196163
196276
196362
196463
196554
196661
196756
196859
196966
197082
197158
197254
197351
197454
197540
197643
197730
197835
197934
198031
198138
198236
198345
198438
198540
198636
198754
198836
198947
199054
199171
199265
199359
199465
199572
199650
199753
199862
199952
200056
200155
200259
200352
200465
200561
200665
200749
200873
200946
201047
201148
201247
201364
201454
201549
201647
201751
201852
201948
202050
202142
202234
202332
202435