Name «Zhytomyr»

The name "Zhytomyr" is documented only from the mid-17th century and is primarily used as a surname. For example, in records from 1666, this name appears as "Martyn-ko Zhytomyr." However, the name of the modern regional center Zhytomyr is mentioned in documents as early as 1305 and 1393, among others. In written sources, the name "Zhytomyr" is already referenced in the 13th century.Besides Ukrainians, the name "Zhytomyr" was also known to Czechs, Slovaks, Serbs, Croatians, and Slovenians. This name consists of the verbal root "zhyty" (to live) and the noun "myr" (peace), meaning "calm." Proof of the ancientness of the name "Zhytomyr" among Slavs is exemplified by the name of the city Zhytomyr.