Meaning & History
Igors is the Latvian form of Igor, a name of Old Norse origin brought to Eastern Europe by the Varangians in the 9th century. The root name Igor itself derives from the Old Norse Yngvarr, composed of elements meaning 'Ing' (a Norse god) and 'warrior' or 'army.' This etymological chain links Igors to the ancient Nordic name Yngvi, a name borne by a legendary Swedish king associated with the god Freyr.
Etymology and History
The name Igor entered the East Slavic world through Varangian traders and warriors. It was notably borne by two grand princes of Kyiv, the first being Igor I (c. 877–945), son of Rurik and husband of Saint Olga. The name spread through princely lines in Kievan Rus' and later into other Slavic regions. In Latvia, Igors was adapted with the suffix -s to fit Latvian masculine declension, making it a common given name among Latvians.
Notable Bearers
Several Latvian athletes and public figures bear the name Igors. In sports, Igors Vihrovs (born 1978) is a Latvian gymnast who won gold on floor exercise at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Igors Miglinieks (born 1964) is a former basketball player who competed for Latvia internationally. Other notable bearers include footballers Igors Stepanovs, Igors Korabļovs, and Igors Sļesarčuks; race walker Igors Kazakēvičs; and hammer thrower Igors Sokolovs. The name is less common outside Latvia, but its Slavic cognates appear in other forms such as Ihar in Belarusian, Ingvar in Swedish, and Igor in Slovene.
- Meaning: 'Ing's warrior' (Old Norse: Yngvarr)
- Origin: Old Norse via Varangian influence in Eastern Europe
- Type: First name
- Usage Regions: Latvia (primary), also found in Slavic countries as Igor
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Igors