Milenko (Cyrillic: Миленко) is a masculine given name of Slavic origin, derived from the element milŭ meaning "gracious, dear." Originally a diminutive of names containing that element, it is primarily used in Croatian, Serbian, and Slovene cultures. Etymology The name Milenko belongs to a large family of Slavic names built on the root mil-, which conveys affection and endearment. Common related forms include Milan and Miloš, both popular across the South Slavic region. Other variants such as Miloje, Milojko, and Milutin also share this etymology, as do the feminine forms Milanka and Milka. The name likewise appears in Bulgarian as Milen or Milko, and in Slovak as Milan or Miloš. French forms Milann and Mylan are adaptations of the Slavic original. Notable Bearers Many individuals named Milenko have achieved prominence in sports. Milenko Ačimovič (born 1977) is a notable Slovenian football player, while Milenko Bajić (1944–2009) was a Bosnian-Herzegovinian football player and manager. In basketball, Milenko Bogićević (born 1976) is a Serbian coach. Other sports figures include Milenko Kersnić (born 1946), a Slovenian gymnast, and Milenko Kovačević (born 1963), a Yugoslav football player. In politics, Milenko Bojanić (1924–1987) served as Prime Minister of Serbia from 1964 to 1967. Cultural Significance The name Milenko reflects the Slavic tradition of forming given names from abstract qualities like grace and dearness. Its use across Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia underscores shared linguistic and cultural roots. The diminutive ending -enko is a characteristic of names in this region, adding a familiar, affectionate tone. Meaning: "Gracious, dear" Origin: Slavic (root milŭ) Type: Masculine given name Usage regions: Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia