Russian Names

A botanical name of Bulgarian origin, it could refer to plants from the Alcea genus, or be a variation on the Macedonian name, Ruža, meaning "rose".

Ruzha

Ruza is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily found in Croatian, Serbian, and Hungarian cultures. It derives from the word for 'rose' (ruža) in several Slavic languages, connecting the name directly to the beautiful flower and its symbolism of love and beauty. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Ruza has been a traditional name in Eastern European communities for generations. The name carries a soft, melodic quality with its gentle 'z' sound. Ruza offers an exotic alternative to the more common Rose or Rosa while maintaining the floral connection. Its relative rarity in Western countries makes it distinctive, yet its straightforward pronunciation makes it accessible.

Ruza

An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.

Savya

Sabyne is a feminine name representing an alternative spelling of Sabine, which has ancient Roman roots. It refers to the Sabine people, an Italian tribe from the central Apennine region of ancient Italy. The name carries historical significance through the legendary episode of the 'Rape of the Sabine Women' in Roman mythology. The 'y' spelling gives this classical name a modern, distinctive touch. Sabyne has been more popular in French-speaking regions and parts of Europe than in English-speaking countries. It offers a sophisticated sound with its smooth pronunciation and elegant ending. Parents might choose this spelling variation for its blend of historical depth and contemporary flair.

Sabyne

Sabinella is a feminine name with Italian and Latin roots, functioning as a diminutive or elaborate form of Sabina. The original name Sabina derives from the Sabines, an ancient Italian tribe that lived northeast of Rome. Sabinella carries the delicate charm of Italian feminine nomenclature with its melodic '-ella' suffix adding a touch of grace and affection. This name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something both classical and uncommon. While maintaining connections to ancient history, Sabinella has a romantic, flowing quality that feels simultaneously timeless and fresh.

Sabinella

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.

Sarka

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.
 Sasha is a simplified spelling that originated in Russia as a diminutive for Alexander. And to add another spelling into the mix, there's Sacha Baron Cohen.
 Though the Sascha spelling has never ranked here, Sasha, now ranking in the lower half of the Top 1000 for girls, was as high as 147 in 1988. In France Sasha is completely unisex--Number 135 for girls, 128 for boys.
 Sascha Rajasalu is a Swedish-Estonian model.

Sascha

Fimochka is a feminine Russian diminutive name with Slavic origins. It likely derives from Euphemia (meaning "well-spoken" or "of good repute" in Greek) or possibly Seraphima. The suffix "-ochka" is a classic Russian endearment form that adds warmth and affection. This name would typically be used as a loving nickname rather than a formal given name in Russian culture. Fimochka remains extremely rare outside of Russian-speaking countries and communities. It carries the charming, melodic quality characteristic of Russian diminutives while evoking a sense of delicacy and sweetness. The name has not charted in popularity rankings in Western countries.

Fimochka

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.

Seraphima

Fima is a feminine name with Slavic and Hebrew origins. In Slavic languages, it can be a diminutive of Serafima, meaning 'burning one' or 'serpent,' reflecting the six-winged seraphim angels described in biblical texts. In Hebrew, Fima can be a shortened form of Efim or Euphemia, meaning 'well-spoken' or 'of good report.' The name remains relatively uncommon in Western countries but has some usage in Russia, Ukraine, and Israel. Fima carries a delicate sound yet conveys strength, making it appealing to parents seeking a unique name with historical roots and cross-cultural significance.

Fima

Steshka is a feminine name likely of Slavic origin, possibly functioning as a diminutive form of Stefania or other names derived from Stephen (meaning "crown" or "garland"). In Russian and other Slavic naming traditions, diminutives express affection and familiarity. Steshka remains quite rare outside Slavic regions, giving it an exotic quality in Western contexts. The name has a distinctive sound with its combination of consonants and the feminine-coded ending. Steshka might appeal to parents with Slavic heritage seeking a name that honors their cultural roots while being relatively accessible to non-Slavic speakers. The name balances cultural specificity with a friendly, approachable quality, suggesting warmth and individuality with its diminutive construction.

Steshka

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.

Stepa

Stepania is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word "stephanos" meaning "crown" or "garland." It's the feminine form of Stephen (or Stefan). The name has been used primarily in Eastern European countries, particularly in Poland, Ukraine, and other Slavic regions where it appears as Stefania or Stepania. Throughout history, the name has been associated with dignity and nobility, reflecting its regal meaning. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Stepania offers a sophisticated European alternative to the more familiar Stephanie. The name carries a timeless quality with its classical roots and melodic pronunciation.

Stepania

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.

Stesha

Steanyda is an extremely rare feminine name with unclear etymological origins. It may be a modern invented name combining elements of Stephanie (from Greek 'stephanos' meaning 'crown') with a creative suffix, or possibly drawing from multiple cultural influences. The unusual combination of sounds creates a distinctive and memorable name with no direct historical precedent. Steanyda's uniqueness ensures individuality, appealing to parents seeking a truly distinctive name. Without widespread usage or clear linguistic roots, the name carries whatever associations its bearer creates, offering a blank slate for personal identity development. The melodic quality of the name, with its flowing syllables and mixture of soft and hard consonants, gives it a feminine character despite its rarity. Steanyda would stand out in virtually any social context.

Steanyda

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.

Syuzanna

Tama is a feminine name with multicultural origins and meanings. In Māori tradition, it typically means 'child' or 'son' though it's used for girls in other contexts. In Japanese, Tama can mean 'jewel' or 'pearl,' symbolizing something precious and beautiful. The name also appears in Hebrew as a variation of 'Tamar,' meaning 'date palm.' Tama's simplicity and gentle sound make it appealing cross-culturally, while its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its ancient roots. The name carries a natural elegance with its balanced two syllables and open vowel sounds. Though not widely common in Western countries, Tama offers a straightforward yet distinctive option for parents seeking a name that is both international and accessible, with positive associations of preciousness and natural beauty.

Tama

Tomochka is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russian culture. It serves as an affectionate diminutive form of Tamara or sometimes Tomila. The '-ochka' suffix in Russian indicates endearment and warmth. Tamara itself has Hebrew roots meaning 'palm tree,' symbolizing grace and victory. Tomochka carries the charming, intimate quality typical of Russian pet names while maintaining a distinct identity. Though uncommon outside Slavic communities, it has a melodic quality that travels well. The name conveys a sense of sweetness and familiarity, reflecting the Russian cultural tradition of using diminutives to express affection and closeness in personal relationships.

Tomochka

Tamarka is an uncommon feminine name that likely developed as an elaboration of Tamara or Tamar. With roots in Hebrew, Tamar means 'date palm' or 'palm tree,' symbolizing fertility and beauty in biblical contexts. The addition of the -ka suffix might reflect Slavic or Eastern European naming customs, where such diminutive endings are common. Tamarka has an exotic, international quality while maintaining connections to the more familiar Tamara. The name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique with authentic historical roots. Its melodic three-syllable pattern gives it a rhythmic, memorable quality that balances uniqueness with pronounceability.

Tamarka

Tatjana is an interesting twist on an already uncommon name, borne by German-born supermodel Tatjana Patitz. Note that as j is pronounced as y in German, the name is spoken just like sisters Tatiana and Tatyana.

Tatjana

Russian names are attracting new attention in the Western World, thanks to the increased visibility of Russian culture and an influx of Russian models with stunning Russian names like Natalia, Irina and Daria.

 generated from our complete database and ordered according to their current popularity on Nameberry. The Russian baby names here include familiar choices like Anastasia and Alexei, as well as little-known Russian gems like Zoya and Zinoviy.

 for girls include Alina, Kira, Mila, Nadia, and Nina. For boys, Russian baby names in the US Top 1000 include Ivan, Nikolai and Valentin. In Russia, popular names include Polina, Varvara and Ksenia for girls, and Mikhail, Lev and Artem for boys.

: names ending in -sha, -ka and, in some cases, -ya are diminutive forms in Russian – which means they are generally used only as nicknames in Russia, rather than as formal names in their own right. Many would also make for cool and unexpected nickname ideas for more popular English names: think Katya for Katherine, or Misha for Michael.

This list includes all the Russian girl names and Russian boy names on Nameberry, ordered by their current popularity among visitors to the site.

Names of Russian origin with meaning and popularity, for baby boys and baby girls, including top names in Russia and unique Russian baby names. (Page 24)