Záviš is a Czech male given name with a uniquely pointed meaning, derived from the Czech word závist, meaning "envy." As a given name, it is quite rare and carries a strong emotional connotation, possibly once used in a protective or apotropaic sense, a common practice in many cultures where negative qualities were invoked to ward off evil spirits. The name Záviš comes from Old Czech Záviš, whose ultimate etymology is uncertain; it is possibly a derivative of závistět (to envy) or might relate to the Old Slavic root zavistь. Its emergence in medieval Czech lands is documented, and the name is most famously borne by Záviš of Falkenstein, a 13th-century Czech nobleman who was a supporter of King Ottokar II and later became Regent of Bohemia during the minority of King Wenceslaus II. His influence and political maneuvering, detailed in Czech historical chronicles like the Chronicon Aulae Regiae, led to his downfall and execution, cementing his name's place in Czech history. A related form exists in Polish: Zawisza, a well-known name in Polish culture, most famously associated with Zawisza Czarny (Zawisza the Black), a 15th-century Polish knight and diplomat renowned for his chivalry and undefeated record in tournaments. While Záviš has a distinct Czech flavor, Zawisza serves as its counterpart in Polish naming traditions, though with a similar debated etymology linking back to words for "envy" or "adjurat" (to adjure). Notable Bearers Záviš of Falkenstein (c. 1250–1290) – a prominent Bohemian nobleman, patron of literature, and regent, whose story is interwoven with the rise of the Přemyslid dynasty. Despite its rarity today, the name persists in Czech-speaking regions, primarily as a historical reference rather than a popular modern choice. Its strong negative meaning likely contributed to its decline – unlike many biblical or virtue names, giving a child a name meaning "envy" would commonly be seen as burdensome, though functional names based on undesirable traits were common medieval protection charms. Meaning: Derived from Czech závist (envy) Origin: Czech (Old Czech Záviš) Type: Given name (masculine) Usage Regions: Czech Republic Related Forms: Zawisza (Polish)