What Are Bosnian Names?
Bosnian names are the names used by Bosnians, a South Slavic ethnic group living primarily in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bosnian names are often derived from Slavic roots and are very similar to other Slavic names. Bosnian names are usually gender specific and often include a patronymic surname. These surnames are derived from the father’s given name and indicate the child’s family relationship. For example, if a father’s name is Marko, his son’s surname may be Marković.
Common Bosnian Names
Common Bosnian names for boys include Marko, Nikola, Stjepan, and Ivan. Common Bosnian names for girls include Ana, Jelena, Marija, and Maja. Bosnian names often include a diminutive, which is a nickname or endearment for a given name. For example, Marko could become Markoče, Nikola could become Nikoleta, and Maja could become Majčica.
Bosnian Name Traditions
Bosnian name traditions involve naming children after relatives, both living and deceased. It is also common for Bosnian parents to name their children after saints. For example, if a family has a patron saint, they may name their child after that saint. Bosnian parents may also give their children traditional Bosnian names, such as Božidar, Božo, and Božana.
Bosnian Name Days
Bosnian name days are celebrated on the feast day of the patron saint associated with a given name. For example, if a person is named after Saint Marko, their name day would be celebrated on April 25. Name days are usually celebrated with family gatherings and special meals.
Bosnian Name Meanings
Bosnian names often have specific meanings associated with them. For example, the name Marko is derived from the Latin word “marcus”, which means “dedicated to Mars”. The name Jelena is derived from the Greek word “helene”, which means “bright one”. The name Božidar is derived from the Slavic words “boži” and “dar”, which mean “gift of God”.
