Meaning, origin, history
Yuri is a name of Russian origin, derived from the male given name Yury, which is a variant spelling of George in Russian. The name George is of Greek origin and means "farmer" or "earthworker," referring to the earth god Ge.
The name Yuri has been popular among Russians for centuries and was also used by other Slavic peoples. It gained international popularity during the 20th century, particularly after being used by several notable figures such as Yuri Gagarin, the first human to journey into outer space, and Yuri Andropov, who served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1982 until his death in 1984.
In some cultures, Yuri is considered a unisex name. However, it has traditionally been more associated with males in Russia and other Slavic countries. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular among parents looking for unique, international-inspired names for their children, regardless of gender. Overall, Yuri is a name that carries a rich history and cultural significance while also having a modern, global appeal.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Yuri since 1880
Total births
2,275
Total since 1880
Peak year
2022
93 births
in 2023
91
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+62%
↗
vs previous 5 years