Борис

Boris

boyBulgarChristian

Boris is a Christian boy name of Bulgar, via Slavic origin, meaning “Possibly 'fighter' or 'wolf'”.

MeaningPossibly 'fighter' or 'wolf'
GenderBoy
OriginBulgar, via Slavic
Written asБорис
Pronunciationbor-EES
TraditionChristian
Used inRussia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Ukraine

Meaning and origin of Boris

Boris is usually traced to the Bulgar name Bogoris, of uncertain meaning; suggestions include a Turkic word for wolf or snow leopard, while folk etymology links it to the Slavic boru, 'fight'. Khan Boris I of Bulgaria accepted Christianity in the ninth century, and the martyred princes Boris and Gleb became the first saints of Kyivan Rus. Later bearers include the writer Boris Pasternak.

Is Boris a Christian name?

Boris is a Christian name in the Orthodox world, honoured through Saint Boris of Kyivan Rus and Saint Boris of Bulgaria.

How popular is Boris?

A familiar name across Slavic countries; uncommon in English-speaking ones.

Gifts with the name Boris

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Spellings and variants of Boris

Names similar to Boris

GlebIgorVadimBogdan

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Boris mean?

Boris means 'Possibly 'fighter' or 'wolf''. It is of Bulgar, via Slavic origin.

Is Boris a Christian name?

Boris is a Christian name in the Orthodox world, honoured through Saint Boris of Kyivan Rus and Saint Boris of Bulgaria.

How do you pronounce Boris?

Boris is pronounced bor-EES.

Is Boris a boy or girl name?

Boris is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.