Arkhipov

Arkhipov is a Russian surname derived from the masculine given name Arkhip, the Russian form of the Greek Archippos. The suffix -ov indicates patronymic origin, meaning "son of Arkhip," with the feminine form Arkhipova. The name has several transliteration variants, including Arkhipow, Archipov, and Archipoff, reflecting different languages and alphabets.

Arkhipov is most commonly found in Russia and among Russian-speaking populations in the former Soviet Union. Like many Russian surnames, it is used across various regions and can be encountered in historical and contemporary contexts.

Notable bearers of the name include Vasili Arkhipov (1923–1998), a Soviet Navy officer who, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, refused to authorize the firing of a nuclear torpedo. His restraint is widely cited as a key factor in preventing a potential nuclear escalation and global conflict.

Because Arkhipov is a patronymic surname, it is shared by many individuals across fields such as the arts, sciences, and sports, often without any direct relation. The name remains most strongly associated in popular memory with Vasili Arkhipov, whose actions during a critical moment in Cold War history are frequently highlighted in discussions of military decision-making and nuclear protocol.