Vlatković

Vlatković is a South Slavic surname, predominantly found in Croatia and Serbia. It is a patronymic surname, derived from the given name "Vlatko." "Vlatko" itself is a diminutive form of names containing the element "vlad," meaning "rule" or "power," such as Vladislav, Vladimir, or Vladan. Thus, "Vlatković" essentially means "son of Vlatko" or "descendant of Vlatko."

The surname is most frequently encountered in regions historically and currently populated by Croats and Serbs, indicating its origins within the broader South Slavic cultural sphere. Like many surnames, its distribution reflects patterns of migration and settlement over generations. Variations in spelling may exist due to regional dialects or historical transcription practices. The prevalence of the surname can be used in genealogical research to trace ancestry back to individuals named Vlatko.