Jaroslava

Jaroslava is a feminine given name of Slavic origin. It is the feminine form of the masculine Jaroslav, derived from the Slavic elements jar- meaning "fierce" or "strong" and slav meaning "glory" or "fame." The combined meaning is commonly interpreted as "fierce glory" or "strong fame." In Slavic languages, the feminine form is created with the suffix -ava, yielding Jaroslava.

The name is most common in Czechia and Slovakia, where it has historical usage as a traditional female given name. It is also found in Poland (as Jarosława) and in other Slavic-speaking communities, with regional variations in spelling and pronunciation.

In modern times, Jaroslava remains a recognized but relatively uncommon name for newborn girls in its core regions. Diminutives and affectionate forms vary by language, with examples such as Jarka or Slávka in some Czech and Slovak contexts.

The name reflects broader Slavic naming patterns in which feminine forms are derived from established masculine names, illustrating historical naming practices across Central and Eastern Europe.