Yaroslav

Yaroslav is a masculine given name of Slavic origin, commonly found in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Poland. It is derived from the elements yar, meaning fierce or energetic, and slav, meaning glory. The name has several regional variants, including Jarosław in Polish and Iaroslav or Iarosláv in Ukrainian transliteration. The feminine form Yaroslava is used in some languages.

The most prominent bearer of the name is Yaroslav I the Wise (c. 978–1054), Grand Prince of Kiev from 1019 to 1054. He expanded the principality, strengthened ties with Byzantium, and promoted cultural and religious development, including the spread of literacy and the building of churches such as Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. His reign is often regarded as a high point of medieval Kievan Rus, and the name Yaroslav is closely associated with a era of consolidation, lawmaking, and urban growth.

In modern times, Yaroslav remains a common given name in Slavic-speaking countries and communities. It appears in various transliterations and forms across languages, and is sometimes used to honor historical figures or regional heritage. The name has also given to places and institutions, most notably the city of Yaroslavl in Russia, named in reference to Yaroslav the Wise.