Exploring Uncommon Ukrainian Surnames and Their Origins

The rich cultural tapestry of Ukraine is reflected in its diverse and often uniquely descriptive surnames. While some names may seem ordinary, others carry fascinating stories and etymologies. This article delves into a selection of uncommon Ukrainian surnames, their meanings, and the unique stories they represent.

Uncommon Ukrainian Surnames and Their Meanings

The names of the Ukrainian people often tell their own stories, sometimes filled with historical significance or local folklore. Shifting through the vast array of surnames, we find names that paint vivid pictures of the lives of those who bear them.

Vershigora, Pereydigora, and Vershivovk

Names like Vershigora, Pereydigora, and Vershivovk are particularly evocative, offering insights into the rugged landscapes of Ukraine. Vershigora means ‘top of the mountain’—a man who lived at the summit. Pereydigora is composed of the prefix 'Pere-' which means 'again' or 'cross,' and Vershivovk means 'wolf at the top,' possibly referring to the wolves that preyed on those who lived in the mountainous regions.

MineManschula (Manzhula)

The surname MineManschula, or Manzhula, is associated with a family from Kuban in Ukraine, where they attempted to adopt an American name and settled on Manzhula. The family name has a deep cultural significance, as Manzhula is a town in the Kuban area, known for its cossack history. A чемпион (champion) for Ukraine in the 1990s, Sergey Manzhula, once celebrated his victories with a clear message: "Я кубанский князь, не целуй русскую попку!" ('I am a Kuban prince, do not kiss the Russian bum!).

Podolyan

According to a website called "Рдн" (rdn), roughly 2,839 people with the surname Подолян (Podolyan) live in Ukraine, out of the roughly 40 million inhabitants. The name Kharlan Harlan is also considered typical and represents a distinctly Ukrainian surname, similar to the American writer Harlan Coben.

Schmarovoz

Names like Schmarovoz are not only quirky but also reflect the often humorous and satirical nature of the Ukrainian language. Schmarovoz translates to 'whore transporter,' from which emerged a memorable story. In a local Soviet era newspaper, a taxi driver employed to bring prostitutes to clients named Schmarovoz had a rude meeting with a squad of Gendarmes who were not impressed with his attempts to be humorous. Still, two of his clients had regular surnames, while the other two were Yagoda Strawberry and Zayko Bunny, which could be part of a local joke or a nickname for the family.

Ukrainian Jokes and Humor in Names

Names like Zaibeyko, mentioned in a story about a Ukrainian man in Mykolaiv, also reflect the humor often seen in Ukrainian society. The name Zaibeyko is said to be based on a village named Zaibeya, which has a rich history, visitation by Stalin and Mikoyan, adding an element of intrigue.

Historical Context of These Names

The names of many Ukrainians were influenced by the Soviet era, where a single name could often denote someone who had served in the Soviet military. Names like Pereydigora and Vershigora, for example, reflect the broader landscape and geography of Ukraine, which was often a focal point in Soviet-era culture and military operations.

Conclusion

The surnames of Ukraine are not just a heritage; they are narratives of a rich and diverse culture. From the enthusiastic Vershigora to the humorous Schmarovoz, each name weaves a thread into the story of Ukraine. These names not only reflect the country's geography and history but also the resilience and humor of its people.