Novikov is a common Russian surname, derived from the Russian word новый (novy) meaning "new." It originally referred to a newcomer to a village, similar to the English surname Newman. The surname is particularly associated with the historical term novik—a teenager from a noble, boyar, or Cossack family who began military service in 16th–18th century Russia. This connection gives the name a distinct historical and social connotation, linking it to Russia's feudal and military traditions.Distribution and VariantsNovikov is one of the most common Russian surnames. The feminine form is Novikova. It has cognates in other Slavic languages, such as Novak (Slovene, Croatian), Novák (Slovak, with feminine Nováková), and Novotný (Czech, with feminine Novotná). The Belarusian form is Novik.Notable BearersSeveral notable individuals bear this surname, as listed on Wikipedia: Marshal of Aviation Alexander Novikov (1900–1976), a double Hero of the Soviet Union; Alexei Novikov (1916–1986), a Soviet pilot and Hero of the Soviet Union; composer Anatoly Novikov (1896–1984); writer Alexey Novikov-Priboy (1877–1944); mathematician Alexander Novikov; and Ukrainian judoka Anatoliy Novikov (1947–2022). In the arts, Russian painter Alexey Novikov (b. 1931) and singer-songwriter Alexander Vasilievich Novikov (b. 1953) are also known. The name appears in other fields and countries, reflecting its widespread use.Meaning: "new" (from Russian novy)Origin: RussianType: SurnameCommon in: Russia, other Slavic countries