How Croatian month names are unique and tell a story

The Month of the Croatian Language is currently being observed in Croatia and to mark it we are taking a deeper look at some of the aspects of the beautiful language.

Today we take a deep dive into the Croatian names for the months of the year, which are unique in a European context because they are not derived from Latin.

Instead, they reflect natural phenomena, weather conditions, and traditional activities throughout the year. These names are deeply rooted in old Croatian traditions, connecting the months with the seasons and agricultural work.

Unlike many other languages that have adopted Latin-based names, Croatian month names offer a direct linguistic link to the way people historically observed and interacted with nature.

Let’s take a look.

January (Siječanj) – The name comes from the word “sjeći” (to cut), referring to the felling of trees, which was necessary for firewood during the cold winter months.

February (Veljača) – The name is linked to the word “velja,” meaning “big” or “changeable.” This month is characterised by significant weather changes, often marking the transition between winter and the approaching spring.

March (Ožujak) – Derived from the old Slavic word “lažuj,” meaning “to lie” or “to deceive,” as the weather in this month is often unpredictable – one day can be sunny, while the next brings snow.

April (Travanj) – Clearly associated with the awakening of nature, the arrival of spring, and the growth of grass (“trava”).

May (Svibanj) – The name originates from “svib,” a type of woody plant that blooms and thrives during this period.

June (Lipanj) – Comes from “lipa” (linden tree), which blooms in this month and holds great symbolic importance in Croatian culture.

July (Srpanj) – The name derives from “srp” (sickle), a tool used during the harvest season that begins in this month.

August (Kolovoz) – Refers to “kola” (carts) and “vožnja” (driving), as this was the time when carts were filled with harvested crops and other agricultural goods.

September (Rujan) – Comes from “ruj,” which signifies a reddish colour, symbolically linked to the autumn hues of leaves and ripe fruit.

October (Listopad) – Clearly refers to the falling of leaves (“list” meaning leaf, “pad” meaning fall) from trees in autumn.

November (Studeni) – The name signifies the arrival of cold (“studeno” meaning cold), marking the transition into winter.

December (Prosinac) – Derived from the old Slavic verb “prositi” (to beg), linked to customs of gift-giving and traditional winter festivities.

These month names clearly illustrate how Croatians throughout history adapted their calendar terminology to reflect the natural environment, seasonal changes, and agricultural practices. Their uniqueness remains one of the defining aspects of the Croatian language and cultural heritage.