Russian Names that Start With S
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Oct 01 2024
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- Sasha
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Greek AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
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.
- Sasha
Origin:
Russian diminutive of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
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.
- Simeon
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"he [God] has heard"Description:
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.
- Sonia
Origin:
Russian and Scandinavian variation of SophiaMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
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.
- Svetlana
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"star"Description:
Popular Russian name, familiar here via author Svetlana Stalin, the dictator's daughter.
- Serge
Origin:
French variation of ancient Roman family name SergiusMeaning:
"servant"Description:
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.
- Sergey
Description:
Sergey is a masculine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian cultures. It derives from the Latin name Sergius, which possibly meant 'servant' or originated from an ancient Roman family name. The name has been carried by numerous saints, including Saint Sergius of Radonezh, a revered figure in Russian Orthodox tradition. Sergey gained international recognition through notable figures like Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, and various accomplished athletes, scientists, and artists. While maintaining its traditional popularity in Eastern European countries, it has become increasingly familiar worldwide. The name combines strength and sophistication with a distinctive Slavic character. Pronunciation varies slightly across cultures, typically as 'SEHR-gay' or 'ser-GAY', adding to its multicultural appeal.
- Sascha
Origin:
German variation of SashaMeaning:
"defending warrior"Description:
In Europe, this name is mostly male, but here it's more fashionable for girls. It's a diminutive of Alexander.
- Savina
Origin:
Italian variation of SabinaDescription:
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.
- Seraphima
Description:
Seraphima is a feminine name with celestial origins, derived from 'seraphim'—the highest order of angels in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. The name literally connects to the Hebrew word 'seraph,' meaning 'to burn,' reflecting the fiery, radiant nature attributed to these heavenly beings. This elaborate form expands on the more common Serafina or Seraphina, adding an exotic, mystical quality. While rare in Western countries, variations of this name have historical usage in Eastern Orthodox countries, particularly Russia, where it appears as Serafima. The name carries powerful connotations of spiritual purity, divine protection, and ethereal beauty. Its uncommon nature appeals to parents seeking a name with profound religious significance and melodic elegance.
- Sergei
Origin:
Russian variation of SergiusDescription:
Common Russian name of one of that country's most beloved saints, known for his kindness and gentility.
- Sima
Description:
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.
- Savya
Origin:
Indian, HindiMeaning:
"Lord Vishnu"Description:
An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.
- Stas
Description:
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.
- Sarka
Description:
Sarka is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Czech and Slovak cultures. The name is connected to Czech national mythology, as Šárka was one of the maidens in the legendary women's war led by Vlasta. In the Czech Republic, the name carries cultural significance and historical resonance. Pronunciation typically emphasizes the first syllable, with a rolled 'r' in traditional usage. While uncommon outside Eastern European communities, Sarka offers a concise, strong-sounding name option with cultural depth. The name's brevity makes it accessible internationally while maintaining its distinctive Slavic character. For families with Czech or Slovak heritage, Sarka provides a meaningful connection to cultural roots.
- Stesha
Description:
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.
- Samvel
Description:
Samvel is a masculine name of Armenian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Samuel, meaning "heard by God" or "name of God." In Armenian culture, Samvel has been widely used for centuries and remains a popular choice that honors cultural heritage. The name carries strong biblical connections through its relation to Samuel, an important prophet in the Old Testament. Samvel has a dignified quality with its distinctive sound that sets it apart from the more commonly used Samuel in Western countries. While primarily used within Armenian communities worldwide, it occasionally appears in other Eastern European and Middle Eastern cultures. The name projects strength and wisdom while maintaining a melodic quality in pronunciation.
- Stepa
Description:
Stepa is a feminine name with Slavic origins, primarily used in Russia and Eastern European countries. It functions as a diminutive form of Stefania (feminine) or Stepan (masculine, the Slavic form of Stephen), which derives from the Greek 'stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' Stepa carries a warm, endearing quality typical of Slavic diminutives, making it both affectionate and familiar. Though not widely used outside Slavic-speaking regions, the name has a gentle, accessible sound that could appeal internationally. In its cultural context, Stepa conveys connections to family traditions and Slavic heritage. The name balances femininity with a straightforward, unpretentious charm, and its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.
- Shura
Origin:
Russian diminutive of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
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.
- Sergunya
Description:
Sergunya is a diminutive form of the Russian name Sergei (Сергей), which ultimately derives from the Latin name Sergius, meaning 'servant' or 'guardian.' This affectionate nickname adds the characteristic Russian suffix '-unya,' creating a warm, familiar version of the traditional name. While Sergei is quite common throughout Russia and Eastern Europe, Sergunya remains a more intimate form typically used among family and close friends rather than as a formal given name. This endearing variation conveys fondness and closeness in Russian culture, following the tradition of using different diminutive forms to express varying degrees of intimacy and affection.
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