Yiğit (Turkish: [jiˈit]) is a Turkish masculine given name and surname meaning "brave" in Turkish. The name is derived from the Turkish word for "valiant" or "a person of exceptional bravery and strength." It is a popular name in Turkey and among Turkish communities worldwide.
The name is sometimes associated with Pasha Yiğit Bey (died 1413), an Ottoman civil and military officer, which historically underscores the virtue of valor in Turkish culture. Notable bearers include Yiğit Bulut (1972–2025), a Turkish journalist and political advisor, and Yiğit Özşener (born 1972), a Turkish actor. In sports, the name is carried by footballers Yiğit Gökoğlan (born 1989) and Yiğit İncedemir (born 1985), as well as swimmer Yiğit Aslan (born 2004) and sailor Yiğit Yalçın Çıtak (born 2001). The feminine form of the name is just 'Yiğit', so it is used exactly the same for women as for men.
While Yiğit does not have a root or variant forms listed, it stands alone as a modern Turkish virtue name. Given its positive meaning, it remains a favorable choice for boys in Turkey.
- Meaning: brave, valiant
- Origin: Turkish
- Type: first name
- Usage: Turkish
Sources: Wikipedia — Yiğit