Igor is a common East Slavic given name derived from the Old Norse name Ingvar, brought to Eastern Europe by the Varangians in the 9th century. The name can be translated as 'warrior under the protection of the god Yngvi' or 'protector of the gods.' It is the Russian form of the Norse name, with Belarusian Ihar and Ukrainian Ihor as regional variants. Etymology and Origins The root of Igor is the Old Norse Yngvarr, composed of the god-name Yngvi and herr ('army' or 'warrior'). Yngvi is a name for the Germanic god Freyr, associated with fertility and kingship. The Varangian rulers of Kievan Rus' adopted the name in forms like Ingvar and evolved to Igor in East Slavic. Historical Bearers Igor I, also known as Igor of Kiev (c. 878–945), was a son of Rurik and Grand Prince of Kiev. He expanded the realm of Kievan Rus' and made a trade treaty with the Byzantine Empire in 944. According to the Primary Chronicle, he was assassinated by the Drevlians while collecting tribute, as related in the Byzantine accounts by Leo the Deacon. His wife, Saint Saint Olga, avenged his death and converted to Christianity. Another notable bearer was Igor II of Kiev (reigned 1146, died 1147), though his reign was brief. Notable Bearers in Modern Times Two 20th-century Igor figures are especially famous: Igor Stravinsky (1882–1971), Russian composer famously known for The Rite of Spring, and Igor Sikorsky (1889–1972), Russian-American aviation pioneer who designed the first successful helicopter. In the early 21st century, Russian football goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev and Basque-Spanish cyclist Igor Antón also made their marks. Cultural Significance Igor remains a prominent name in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other Slavic countries such as Croatia, Czech Republic, Macedonia, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, and Slovenia. The Basque region also uses Igor as a form, adapting the pronunciation. Feminine forms derived from Igor include Igorina and Yvaine, akin to Catherine. A notable Igor in architecture is Igor of Constantinople (deposed c. 845 CE). The US entertainment world also has similar figures named Igor in video games and books. Related Forms Cognates across Europe include Latvian Igors, Swedish Ingvar, Norwegian Yngvar and Ingar, and the Old Norse Yngvarr. Ukrainian renders the name Ihor. Meaning: Warrior of Yngvi or protector of the gods Origin: Old Norse, through Varangian-Rus Type: First name (masculine) Usage regions: Primarily East Slavic, also widespread in Czechoslovakia, Balkans & Iberian enclaves, all using cultural variants