Russian Names

  1. Irena
    • Origin:

      Czech; Latvian; Polish; Bulgarian; Lithuanian, from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "peace"
    • Description:

      This form of Irene feels fresher and gives the classic name a chic, international flair. It's most commonly used in Eastern Europe.
  2. Nika
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Veronika; Slovenian; Croatian, feminine form of Nicholas
    • Description:

      Enticing modern nickname name possibility.
  3. Tanya
    • Origin:

      Russian diminutive of Tatiana
    • Description:

      Long integrated into the U. S. name pool but still retaining some Slavic flavor, Tanya feels a bit tired; it's ready for replacement by cooler Russian choices like Sasha, Mischa, or parent name Tatiana.
  4. Vlad
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Vladimir, Slavic
    • Meaning:

      "great ruler, peaceful ruler, ruler of the world"
    • Description:

      The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.
  5. Agata
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Polish, Slovene, Russian, Croatian, Serbian variation of Agatha
    • Description:

      Agata is an Agatha form widely used throughout Europe. And the hard t may be more appealing to your ear than the th sound.
  6. Verina
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "true"
    • Description:

      More often spelled VERENA, this name is attached to a third century Swiss saint. But the "virtue" name VERITY, is more appealing and comes more directly to the point.
  7. Kesha
    • Description:

      Kesha as a masculine name is an uncommon gender usage of what is typically a feminine name in Western countries. The name has multiple origins: it can be a variation of Keisha (African-American origin meaning 'favorite' or 'beloved'), a short form of Lakisha, or derived from the Russian diminutive of Innokenty. As a male name, it's particularly rare and may reflect cultural variations or family traditions. The name gained some recognition through the American singer Kesha (born Kesha Rose Sebert), though her usage is feminine. For males, the name carries a unique, gender-nonconforming quality that makes it distinctive. Pronunciation typically follows 'KEE-shah' or 'KAY-shah' patterns.
  8. Melor
    • Origin:

      Celtic
    • Meaning:

      "iron man"
    • Description:

      Melor is the name of a Breton saint who in legend was also a prince, suggesting he was the son of a Cornish king (Mylor is the Cornish variation of the name). Melor was said to have a foot and hand made of silver,
  9. Olesya
    • Description:

      Olesya is a feminine name of Slavic origin, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It derives from the ancient Slavic name Aleks, meaning 'defender' or 'protector of humanity.' Olesya has a long history in Slavic countries but remains relatively uncommon in Western nations, giving it a distinctive yet authentic feel. The name carries a melodious quality with its flowing vowels and soft consonants. In Russia, the name gained popularity during the 20th century and continues to be used. Olesya offers an accessible entry point to Slavic naming traditions for international parents, as its pronunciation is relatively intuitive for English speakers while maintaining its cultural roots and distinctive character.
  10. Katia
    • Origin:

      Russian diminutive of Ekaterina
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      One of the warm and earthy Russian nickname names now coming into style. Denzel Washington is the father of a Katia.
  11. Tora
    • Origin:

      Norse
    • Meaning:

      "thunder"
    • Description:

      Tora is the female version of Tor or Thor, the name of the Norse god of thunder. Actress Jeanne Tripplehorn chose it for her daughter.
  12. Ivanna
    • Origin:

      Feminine of Ivan, which is itself a variation of John
    • Description:

      Ivanna / Ivana both come out of the name "John" by way of the Russian variant Ivan. Whereas Joanna feels dated, Ivanna feels cosmopolitan and fresh. Ivanka (of Trump fame) is a diminutive version of Ivanna.
  13. Zariyah
    • Origin:

      Arabic, Hebrew, Russian
    • Meaning:

      "scattering wind; God has helped; sunrise, dawn"
    • Description:

      Zariyah has several possible origins: the Arabic Zahrah which means "flower" or Zariya "scattering wind"; the Hebrew name Azariah, meaning "God has helped"; or the Russian word Zaria which means "sunrise, dawn."
  14. Fedya
    • Description:

      Fedya is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Fyodor (the Russian equivalent of Theodore). The name Fyodor derives from Greek roots meaning 'gift of God,' giving Fedya the same meaningful heritage. As a diminutive, Fedya carries a warm, affectionate quality in Russian culture. Outside Russia and Eastern European communities, the name remains quite uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal for parents seeking something with international flair. Literature enthusiasts might recognize the name from Russian classics, including Dostoevsky's works. Fedya offers a distinctive yet approachable option for parents interested in Slavic names or seeking an uncommon name with rich cultural roots.

  15. Maiya
    • Description:

      Maiya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Sanskrit, it relates to 'illusion' or 'magic,' while in Hebrew it can mean 'wished-for child.' It's also found in Japanese culture where it might be connected to the word for 'dance.' The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek distinctive yet approachable alternatives to more common names like Maya or Maia. Maiya offers a fresh twist on these similar names while maintaining an easy pronunciation. Its cross-cultural presence gives it versatility and broad appeal. The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and vowel sounds, contributing to its increasingly favorable reception.
  16. Rodion
    • Origin:

      Russian from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "song of the hero"
    • Description:

      Well used in Russia, this is a distinctive and undiscovered choice here. Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov is the fictional protagonist of Crime and Punishment by Feodor Dostoyevsky.
  17. Yeva
    • Origin:

      Russian and Armenian variation of Eve, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "life"
    • Description:

      A Top 10 name in Moscow. In Russian, the emphasis is put on the first syllable.
  18. 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.
  19. Kima
    • Description:

      Kima is a masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Swahili, it means "that which is on the hill" or can relate to "one who moves mountains." Some sources connect it to Japanese origins meaning "valuable." In Native American traditions, particularly among certain tribes, Kima can refer to "butterfly." The name has remained relatively uncommon in Western countries, maintaining its distinctive appeal. Its short, melodic sound with balanced consonants and vowels makes it easy to pronounce across languages. While not appearing on most popularity charts, Kima has seen occasional usage as both a given name and nickname, appreciated for its simplicity and cross-cultural resonance.
  20. Irisa
    • Description:

      Irisa is a delicate feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Iris, the Greek name meaning 'rainbow' and associated with the goddess who served as a messenger between gods and humans. Another possibility is that it's derived from the Slavic name Irisha, a diminutive of Irina meaning 'peace.' Some may also see it as a creative variation of Irish or Irisha, giving it a connection to Ireland. Irisa has a modern, melodic quality with its soft sounds and rhythmic syllables. While not among the most common names, its uniqueness and gentle sound make it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. The name carries connotations of natural beauty, tranquility, and colorful vibrancy.