Petrović

Petrović is a common Slavic surname with widespread presence across the Slavic-speaking world, particularly within the countries of the former Yugoslavia. The name is patronymic in origin, derived from the personal name Petar (Peter), meaning "son of Petar." It is equivalent to the English surname Peterson. The surname is most commonly associated with Serbian, Croatian, and Montenegrin heritage, reflecting the historical and cultural proliferation of the name Petar in these regions.

Etymology

The surname Petrović is derived from the given name Petar, which in turn comes from the Greek name Petros (Πέτρος), meaning "rock" or "stone." The suffix -vić is a Slavic diminutive, denoting patrilineal descent, and is commonly found in Slavic surnames, indicating "son of."

Distribution

Petrović is a widespread surname in the Balkans, particularly in Serbia, Croatia, and Montenegro. It is also found among the diaspora communities around the world, especially in countries with significant populations of immigrants from the former Yugoslavia, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable People

Several notable individuals bear the surname Petrović, contributing to various fields such as sports, politics, and the arts. Some of these include:

- Dražen Petrović (1964–1993), a Croatian professional basketball player, considered one of the greatest European players of all time. - Nikola Petrović (1841–1921), a Montenegrin prince and military leader. - Jovan Petrović (dates unknown), a Serbian politician and diplomat.

In Culture

The surname Petrović, due to its commonality and historical significance, has featured prominently in literature, film, and other cultural expressions throughout the Slavic world. It often serves as a symbol of Slavic heritage and identity, particularly in narratives exploring themes of family, tradition, and national history.

See Also

• Slavic names
• Patronymic surnames
• Serbian surnames
• Croatian surnames
• Montenegrin surnames