Etymology and OriginsFyodor (also transliterated as Fedor or Feodor) is the Russian form of the Greek name Theodore (Θεόδωρος, Theodoros), meaning "gift of god" from the elements theos (god) and doron (gift). The name has been widespread in the Christian world due to its positive meaning and veneration of several saints, including Theodore of Amasea, a 4th-century Greek soldier; Theodore of Tarsus, a 7th-century archbishop of Canterbury; and Theodore the Studite, a 9th-century Byzantine monk. It was particularly popular in Eastern Christianity.Historical BearersThe name Fyodor was borne by three tsars of Russia: Feodor I (1557–1598), Feodor II (1605), and Feodor III (1661–1682). Feodor I, the last Rurikid tsar, was known for his piety and left rule to Boris Godunov. Feodor II reigned only briefly before being murdered, while Feodor III modernized Russia slightly before his early death. Other notable royals include Fyodor of Kiev and Fyodor Rostislavich (Fyodor the Black), a 13th-century prince and saint in the Russian Orthodox Church. Another famous bearer is the renowned author Fyodor Dostoyevsky (1821–1881), who wrote classics such as Crime and Punishment and The Brothers Karamazov.Variants and TranslationsCommon transliterations include Fedor and Feodor. The diminutive Fedya is a familiar form. In other languages, equivalents include Tewodros (Amharic), Theodoros (Greek), Theodorus (Dutch), Toros (Armenian), Teodor (Swedish), and Todor (Serbian). Surname descendants include Fedorov/Fedorova and Fyodorov/Fyodorova.Meaning: gift of godOrigin: Greek via TheodoreType: Given nameUsage: Russian