Władysław

Boy Name
Origin:slavic
Pronunciation:/ˈvwɑ.dɨ.swa.f/

Władysław: a male name of Slavic origin meaning "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation)". It derives from the Slavic word "vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav".

The name Władysław carries a rich history rooted in Slavic culture. Derived from "vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Slavic-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Władysław

Quick facts about Władysław
OriginSlavic
GenderBoy name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav

How to Pronounce Władysław

Władysław is pronounced /ˈvwɑ.dɨ.swa.f/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Wła-dys-ław
  2. Say it like: "WŁA-DYS-ŁAW"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Władysław is predominantly used in polish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

polish
Name Relationships

Władysław is a variant form of Vladislav, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Władysław
What does the name Władysław mean?
Władysław means "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.". The name comes from vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav. In its original form, the name derives from vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть) sláva ‎(сла́ва) Vladislav (Владислав). This slavic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Władysław for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Władysław offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Władysław?
Władysław is a slavic name. The name traces back to vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav. The original form vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть) sláva ‎(сла́ва) Vladislav (Владислав) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to polish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The slavic meaning "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Władysław developed as a form of Vladislav, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Władysław a boy or girl name?
Władysław is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In slavic tradition, Władysław has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Władysław?
Władysław is pronounced "/ˈvwɑ.dɨ.swa.f/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Władysław is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with slavic names, listening to a native speaker say Władysław can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root vladěti / vladétʹ ‎sláva > Vladislav influences how Władysław sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Władysław?
Władysław is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Władysław gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Władysław's popularity may vary between slavic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Władysław holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Władysław?
Władysław is a form of Vladislav. Over time, Vladislav developed into several variations, with Władysław emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In slavic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Władysław might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In polish, Władysław may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Władysław commonly used?
Władysław is used primarily in polish naming traditions. Though slavic in origin, Władysław found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Władysław into their naming traditions. A child named Władysław will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Władysław is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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