Last Name Krylov

Learn more about the origin of the last name Krylov

The meaning and origin of the last name Krylov

The surname Krylov originates from Russia, specifically from the Slavic roots of the country. The name itself is derived from the word "krylo," which translates to "wing" or "fly" in Russian. As a surname, Krylov likely first originated as a nickname for someone who possessed qualities related to birds or wings, such as being swift, agile, or having a connection to the sky. It could also have been used to describe someone who had metaphorical wings, implying a free-spirited nature or a desire for exploration and adventure. Over time, individuals with the surname Krylov would have passed it down through generations, leading to its continued presence to this day. Today, the surname Krylov can still be found predominantly in Russia and among Russian diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Krylov

The last name Krylov is primarily found in Russia, reflecting its Russian origin. It is likely to be most commonly encountered within the country's borders, particularly in areas where ethnic Russians reside. Russia has several regions that have historically been populated by Russians, such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and the surrounding areas. Therefore, it can be expected that the majority of individuals with the last name Krylov will live in these regions. However, the last name Krylov may also be found in other former Soviet Union countries or regions that have a significant Russian population, such as Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. Additionally, due to migration and the global diaspora of Russian communities, individuals with the last name Krylov can also be found in various parts of the world, particularly in countries with large Russian immigrant communities, including the United States, Canada, Germany, and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Krylov

The last name Krylov originates from Eastern Slavic countries and can be found in various spellings and variations. Some common variations include Krilov, Krylova, Krylow, Kriłov, and Kryłów. These variations primarily stem from transliteration and the phonetic adaptation of the Cyrillic alphabet to different languages. For instance, Krilov or Krylov may be used to anglicize the name, while Krylova may indicate a feminine form. Additionally, Kriłov or Kryłów could be Polish spellings, featuring the diacritic ł, which represents a sound similar to the English "w". Such shifts in spelling and pronunciation occur when families migrate across borders or when they adopt naming conventions of their new homeland. Regardless of the variations, the shared root of these last names signifies a connection among individuals who bear them, often reflecting common ancestry or historical ties to the region where the name originated.

Famous people with the last name Krylov

One prominent figure with the last name Krylov is Ivan Andreyevich Krylov, a renowned Russian fabulist and poet. Born in 1769, Krylov is regarded as one of the most prominent contributors to Russian literature. His fables, which feature animal characters, are treasured for their moral teachings and satirical nature. Krylov's exceptional storytelling abilities and witty narratives have earned him a distinguished place in Russian folklore and literature.

Furthermore, Anton Nikolaevich Krylov, another notable figure, made significant contributions to the field of naval engineering. Born in 1863, Krylov was a Russian scientist revered for his extensive research on shipbuilding and hydrodynamics. He played a pivotal role in the development of naval technology, including the creation of experimental ship models and advancements in the understanding of ship resistance and propulsion. Anton Krylov's innovative work and dedication have left an indelible mark on naval engineering, making him an esteemed figure in scientific circles.

Genealogical research on the last name Krylov

The last name Krylov is of Russian origin and has an interesting genealogical background. The Krylov surname is derived from the word "krylo," meaning wing, and is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone with wings, perhaps someone who was a skilled flyer or had a distinctive physical trait. The Krylov family can be traced back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Russia. The name gained prominence through the renowned Russian poet, playwright, and fabulist Ivan Krylov, who was born in 1769. His literary contributions greatly influenced Russian literature and culture. Over the years, the Krylov family expanded and spread across various regions in Russia and eventually throughout the world due to migration and emigration. Today, individuals with the last name Krylov can be found in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other countries, representing a diverse and widely-connected family history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "krylov"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025