Risto

Risto is a Finnish, Estonian, and South Slavic short form of Kristoffer or Kristian, ultimately derived from the Greek name Christophoros or Christianos, both rooted in the Greek Christos, meaning anointed one, itself a translation of the Hebrew Mashiach. In Finland and Estonia it developed as an independent given name from the medieval period onward, while in Macedonian and Serbian tradition it functions similarly as a familiar form of Hristo or Hristofor. Notable bearers include Risto Ryti, the Finnish statesman who served as president during World War II. Related forms include Hristo, Kristo, and Kristoffer.