Kavčič is a Slovene surname, derived from the Slovene word kavka meaning "jackdaw" — a small black bird of the crow family. The suffix -ič indicates a patronymic or diminutive, so the name likely originally referred to "son of the jackdaw" or was a nickname for someone resembling the bird in some way. The root word kavka is shared among several Slavic languages, and the surname has cognates such as the Czech surname Kafka, Kafková, and the Polish surname Kawa. The name Kavčič is most commonly found in Slovenia. Notable bearers include: Blaž Kavčič (born 1987), Slovenian tennis player, a two-time Olympic participant. Blaž Kavčič (politician; born 1951), Slovenian politician and economist, served in the National Assembly and European Parliament. Stane Kavčič (1919–1987), Slovenian politician and Prime Minister (then called President of the Executive Council) of Slovenia from 1972 to 1980. Tine Kavčič (born 1994), Slovenian footballer. Tomaž Kavčič (born 1953), Slovenian footballer and manager. Etymology The name belongs to a group of Slavic surnames formed from bird names, which are common in many Slavic naming traditions. In the case of the jackdaw, the bird's talkative or mischievous nature may have prompted its association. The -ič ending is typical of patronymic formations, equivalent to the Anglo-Saxon -son. See also People interested in this surname might also look into related surnames, including those above from Czech and Polish. Key Facts Meaning: “jackdaw” Origin: Slovene Type: Surname Usage Regions: Slovenia