Log in · Sign up

Vladimir Boy

Popularity: #843 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationVLAH-dee-meer / ˈvlædɪmɪr

Slavic; Russian

Meaning

Slavic: 'to rule' or 'ruler'; Russian: 'peaceful ruler'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Vladimir has its roots in the Slavic languages, deriving from the Old Slavic elements 'vladeti', meaning 'to rule', and 'mir', which translates to 'peace' or 'world'. This etymological combination suggests a meaning akin to 'ruler of the world' or 'peaceful ruler'. The name can be traced back to the early medieval period, with its earliest forms appearing in the 9th century among the Slavic tribes of Eastern Europe. It entered the lexicon of various Slavic languages, including Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish, as these languages evolved over the centuries.

Historically, the name Vladimir is most notably associated with Saint Vladimir, also known as Vladimir the Great, who was the Grand Prince of Kiev from 980 to 1015. He is credited with the Christianization of Kievan Rus' in 988, which had profound implications for the cultural and religious landscape of Eastern Europe. His legacy is commemorated in various historical texts and hagiographies, particularly in the context of the spread of Orthodox Christianity in the region. The name gained further prominence through its association with various rulers and saints across Slavic nations, reinforcing its significance in the cultural memory of these societies.

Culturally, Vladimir carries connotations of leadership and peace, resonating with the ideals of governance and harmony within Slavic traditions. The name has been celebrated in literature and folklore, often symbolizing strength and benevolence. In addition to its historical significance, diminutive forms such as Volodya in Russian reflect the name's adaptability and affection within familial contexts. The enduring nature of the name Vladimir highlights its deep roots in Slavic heritage and its association with pivotal historical figures, ensuring its place in the cultural narrative of Eastern Europe.

Trend Summary

Vladimir has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a notable presence in the 20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Vlad
  • Vladik
  • Vladislav

International Variants

  • Vladimir (Russian)
  • Vladimír (Czech)
  • Vladimiro (Italian)
  • Vladislav (Slavic)

Famous people named Vladimir

Vladimir Nabokov is a writer best known for Lolita, Pale Fire, and Speak, Memory.

Vladimir Horowitz is a pianist best known for his performances of classical piano works and his recordings of Chopin and Rachmaninoff.

Vladimir Kramnik is a chess grandmaster best known for winning the World Chess Championship in 2000 and his contributions to chess theory.

Vladimir Ashkenazy is a pianist and conductor best known for his interpretations of classical music and his recordings of Rachmaninoff and Beethoven.

Fictional characters named Vladimir

Vladimir is a fictional character from the play Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett. He is one of the two main characters who waits for the mysterious Godot, exploring themes of existentialism and the human condition.

Vladimir is a fictional character from the video game series Castlevania. He is a prominent antagonist, often portrayed as a powerful vampire lord with a complex history and motivations.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Vladimir was first seen in the United States in 1913. Vladimir has ranked as high as #1243 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Vladimir has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Vladimir (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 19
51%
TX 7
19%
NY 6
16%
VA 5
14%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
191311
191413
191521
191616
191722
191815
191912
19206
192121
192218
192319
192414
192510
192615
192724
192814
192911
193014
19316
19328
19338
193410
19369
193711
19387
19398
19417
19425
19437
195010
19519
19529
195312
19546
195510
195610
195711
19588
195910
196010
196113
196217
196316
196411
196515
196614
196720
196825
196925
197034
197146
197239
197339
197441
197536
197646
197751
197852
197953
198042
198163
198246
198348
198450
198543
198672
198768
198878
198995
199086
199184
199287
199393
199488
1995101
199694
1997123
1998129
199982
2000136
2001115
2002122
2003108
2004117
2005156
2006151
2007148
2008160
2009156
2010179
2011160
2012147
2013134
2014166
2015167
2016180
2017161
2018145
2019144
2020117
2021125
2022108
202387
202481