Aivars is a Latvian masculine given name, the native form of Ivar and ultimately a variant of Ivor. Its name day in Latvia is celebrated on 29 January.Etymology and OriginsThe name is derived from the Old Norse name Ívarr, composed of the elements ýr (“yew tree, bow”) and herr (“army, warrior”). Thus, the name carries the meaning of “bow warrior” or “archer.” Aivars is one of a group of Old Scandinavian names that first appeared in Courland (western Latvia) between the 6th and 10th centuries, a testament to early Nordic influence in the region.Cultural and Historical SignificanceIts rise to modern popularity began during the Latvian National Awakening in the late 19th century, when many ancient and newly‑invented Latvian names were revived. By 2006, Aivars was the sixth most popular male name in Latvia, borne by over 13,000 men. A related form is Ivars, which is equally common (over 9,900 bearers in 2006, ranking ninth). The Latvian author Vilis Lācis helped popularize the name by using it for a character in his 1952 novel Uz Jauno Krastu (“To the New Shore”).Notable BearersAivars Aksenoks (born 1961), Latvian politician and former mayor of RigaAivars Drupass (1945–1999), Latvian basketball player and coachVariant FormsBeyond Latvia, cognates include Estonian Aivar, Lithuanian Aivaras, Finnish Iivari and Iivo, Swedish Ivar, and Welsh Ivor.Meaning: “bow warrior”Origin: Old Norse via Latvian adaptationType: First nameUsage regions: Latvia (primary), also Estonia, Lithuania, and Scandinavia