Sasha, largely male in Russia--and also spelled Sascha and Sacha--is an energetic name that has really taken off for girls here, chosen by Jerry Seinfeld (using the alternate Sascha spelling) and other celebs. The Barack Obamas use it as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. But in line with a trend toward softer-sounding boys' names like Asher and Joshua and thanks to Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen, Sasha also still has life as a boys' name too--it's popular in France for boys and girls almost equally.

The energetic Russian nickname name Sasha is being used increasingly on its own, though since the prominence of the First Daughter, more than 90% of the American babies named Sasha are girls. Sacha Baron Cohen bears one of the alternate spellings.

Could Simeon be the next Gideon? Parents seeking a less simple form of Simon might consider this biblical appellation that was chosen by Wynton Marsalis for his son. Simon is actually the Greek substitute for Simeon.

Early European import, well known in the 1940s via Norwegian skating movie star Sonja Henie, that has sailed back across the Atlantic, despite the rising popularity of other Russian names.

Common Russian name of one of that country's most beloved saints, known for his kindness and gentility.

Popular Russian name, familiar here via author Svetlana Stalin, the dictator's daughter.

Saint Savina of Milan gave comfort to prisoners. Her name is a variation of the Latin Sabina, which refers to the Sabine people. Not completely unknown in the US, there were 25 baby girls named Savina last year, and fewer than 100 called Sabina. Savina and Sabina will inevitably be confused with Sabrina, which is much more popular.

Russian variation of Simon.

In Europe, this name is mostly male, but here it's more fashionable for girls. It's a diminutive of Alexander.

Syuzanna is a distinctive variation of the classic name Susanna, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' This particular spelling reflects Eastern European influences, particularly Russian, Armenian or other Slavic languages' transliteration. The unique 'Sy' beginning and 'z' spelling gives the name an exotic quality while maintaining connection to its biblical roots. In the Bible, Susanna was a woman known for her beauty and virtue. Syuzanna remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something familiar yet distinctive. The name carries an air of sophistication and international flair, while its connection to the more familiar Susanna ensures it remains accessible and pronounceable despite its unique spelling.

Sima is a feminine name with multicultural origins, appearing in Hebrew, Arabic, Indian, and Slavic naming traditions. In Hebrew, it means 'treasure' or 'valued,' while in Sanskrit it can mean 'boundary' or 'limit.' In Slavic languages, it may be related to the word for 'winter.' This short, melodic two-syllable name carries a gentle elegance and simplicity that transcends cultural boundaries. Sima has maintained consistent though modest usage across different regions, particularly in Jewish, Indian, and Eastern European communities. Its cross-cultural presence and positive meanings make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with both depth and accessibility.

The Russian and Bulgarian variant of Samuel.

An alternative to Sasha, another common Russian nickname for Aleksander.

Old saints' and popes' name that went to France in the 1920s with the Russian Ballets Russes; in its Russian form, Sergei, it retains an artistic, almost effete air.

An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.

Shura is a unisex Russian nickname for Aleksandr or Aleksandra, themselves forms of Alexander. Less known in the English-speaking world than Sasha, it's also more assertive — probably because of that "sure" sound.

Largely male throughout Europe, this name--spelled with or without the c, is an energetic choice that has really taken off for girls here; it's been used for the daughters of Steven Spielberg, Jerry Seinfeld, and Vanessa Williams. The Barack Obamas use Sasha as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. Sasha Alexander, on the TV show Rizzoli & Isles, was born Suzana.

Stas is a masculine name primarily used in Eastern European countries, particularly Poland, Russia, and Ukraine. It functions as a diminutive of Stanislav (or Stanisław), a name composed of Slavic elements meaning 'glory' and 'establish' – essentially 'may you achieve glory' or 'one who achieves glory.' Despite its brevity, Stas carries the strength and historical significance of its longer form. In Eastern European communities, it's appreciated for being modern-sounding while maintaining traditional roots. Outside Slavic regions, Stas remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being fairly easy to pronounce. The name's concise nature makes it practical and distinctive in international settings, while its cultural background provides depth and heritage.

Stesha is a feminine name that functions primarily as a diminutive of Stephanie or Anastasia. With Slavic origins, particularly in Russian naming traditions, Stesha represents an affectionate, familiar form used among family and close friends. The name Stephanie derives from the Greek 'stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland,' while Anastasia comes from Greek elements meaning 'resurrection.' Stesha has a warm, approachable quality with its soft ending sound. Though uncommon as a formal given name in Western countries, it carries a distinctive charm that may appeal to parents seeking something both familiar and unique. The name's brevity and melodic quality make it accessible across cultural boundaries, despite its specific Eastern European roots.