Bavarian is the English name for the residents of any of the historical entities known as Bavaria (German Bayern).

Bavarian is also the adjective for things related to Bavaria.

Bavaria itself derived its name from the Germanic peoples known as the Baioari or Bajuwarii.

Because the same name has referred at different times to the inhabitants of several different, although related, political entities, it should be remembered that the term's meaning may vary slightly, depending upon the period concerned.