Zbigniew

boyPolish (Slavic)

Zbigniew is a boy name of Polish (Slavic) origin, meaning “To dispel anger”.

MeaningTo dispel anger
GenderBoy
OriginPolish (Slavic)
PronunciationZBEEG-nyef
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inPoland

Meaning and origin of Zbigniew

Zbigniew is an old Polish name from zbyc, to get rid of, and gniew, anger, so it means 'one who dispels anger'. It is first recorded in the medieval Piast dynasty, where Zbigniew was the elder brother of Duke Boleslaw III Wrymouth. Well-known modern bearers include Zbigniew Brzezinski, national security adviser to President Carter, and the poet Zbigniew Herbert. Zbyszek is the usual pet form.

Is Zbigniew a religious name?

Zbigniew is a traditional Polish name with no religious meaning.

How popular is Zbigniew?

Common among Polish men born in the mid-twentieth century; rarer for babies now.

Gifts with the name Zbigniew

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Spellings and variants of Zbigniew

ZbyszekZbynek

Names similar to Zbigniew

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Zbigniew mean?

Zbigniew means 'To dispel anger'. It is of Polish (Slavic) origin.

Does Zbigniew have a religious meaning?

Zbigniew is a traditional Polish name with no religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Zbigniew?

Zbigniew is pronounced ZBEEG-nyef.

Is Zbigniew a boy or girl name?

Zbigniew is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.