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Name meaning & originKirill Кирилл

/kee-REEL/

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Kirill is a Russian boy's name pronounced /kee-REEL/. A sophisticated name derived from the word for lord or master.

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Meaning of Kirill

A sophisticated name derived from the word for lord or master.

Kirill is derived from the Greek name Kyrillos, which originates from 'kyrios', meaning 'lord' or 'master'. Historically, it gained prominence in Eastern Europe through Saint Cyril, the 9th-century missionary who co-created the Glagolitic alphabet, the precursor to Cyrillic.

Origin
Russian
Pronunciation
/kee-REEL/

Cultural background

The name is widely popular in Russia, Ukraine, and Bulgaria, often chosen to honor religious traditions or for its strong, intellectual connotation. It remains a top-tier choice for boys in Slavic-speaking countries today.

Variations & nicknames

  • Cyril
  • Kiril
  • Kyrylo
  • Kiri
  • Kirillka
  • Kira

Famous people named Kirill

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Patriarch Kirill of Moscow

    The current head of the Russian Orthodox Church.

    Religion · 2009–present

  • Kirill Kaprizov

    Professional ice hockey winger and NHL star for the Minnesota Wild.

    Sport · 2014–present

  • Kirill Serebrennikov

    Renowned stage and film director known for avant-garde productions.

    Film · 1990s–present

  • Kirill Kondrashin

    Distinguished Soviet conductor known for his interpretations of Mahler and Shostakovich.

    Music · 1930s–1981

  • Kirill Gerstein

    Award-winning Russian-American classical pianist.

    Music · 1990s–present

Frequently asked about Kirill

What does Kirill mean?
Kirill means 'lord' or 'master', derived from the Greek word 'kyrios'.
How do you pronounce Kirill?
It is pronounced kee-REEL, with the emphasis on the second syllable and a soft 'l' sound.
Is Kirill a boy or girl name?
Kirill is a masculine name. The feminine counterpart is typically Kira.
Is Kirill the same as Cyril?
Yes, Kirill is the Slavic form of the English name Cyril; both share the same Greek etymology.

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