Pantelić is a common South Slavic surname, predominantly found in Serbia. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the given name of an ancestor.
Etymology The surname Pantelić is derived from the personal name Pantelej (or Panteleimon), which is of Greek origin (Παντελεήμων, Panteleḗmōn), meaning "all-merciful" or "all-compassionate." The name Pantelej is venerated in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, particularly through Saint Panteleimon, a martyr and healer. The suffix "-ić" is a widespread South Slavic patronymic suffix, indicating "son of" or "descendant of."
Distribution The surname is most prevalent in Serbia and among the Serbian diaspora around the world. It can also be found in other countries that were formerly part of Yugoslavia, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia, as well as in other nations with significant Serbian populations, reflecting historical migrations and shared cultural heritage.
Notable People Prominent individuals with the surname Pantelić include:
- Marko Pantelić (born 1978), a Serbian former professional footballer who played as a striker for various European clubs and the Serbian national team.
- Miloje Pantelić (1921–1979), a Serbian politician who served as President of the Executive Council of Serbia (equivalent to prime minister) within Yugoslavia.
- Milan Pantelić (born 1993), a Serbian professional basketball player.