Eastern European Names

Eastern European Names

Eastern European names originate from Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Romania, Hungary, Croatia, and many other surrounding countries.

Eastern European girl names include Zsazsa, Danika, Amalia, and Edvina. Eastern European boy names include Savin, Cyrek, Rouben, and Antal.

Browse all of our Eastern European baby names here, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.

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  1. Amalia
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "work"
    • Description:

      Originally popularized in eighteenth century Europe due to the fame of Anna Amalia, a Duchess who was a great patron of the arts, Amalia is now a widely cross-cultural name, heard from Italy to Romania, Germany to Scandinavia. Popular in the Netherlands, Chile, France, and Puerto Rico, it can be pronounced as ah-MAH-lee-ah or ah-MAIL-ya or ah-mah-LEE-ah, to name a few options.
  2. Daniela
    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Daniel used in various languages
    • Meaning:

      "God is my judge"
    • Description:

      Used across Europe, South America, and the US, Daniela is a popular feminine form of the Hebrew name Daniel. It has ranked in the US Top 300 since the early 90s and it's currently on trend in Spain, Portugal, Chile, Mexico, and Lativia.
  3. Emelia
    • Origin:

      Variation of Emilia or Amelia, Latin, Germanic, "rival;work
    • Description:

      Emelia takes elements from soundalike sisters Emilia and Amelia, which actually derive from different roots and have different meanings.
  4. Savin
    • Description:

      Savin is a masculine name with diverse origins. In Slavic traditions, it derives from the Latin 'Sabinus,' meaning 'Sabine' (relating to an ancient Italian tribe). The name also has roots in Russian Orthodox tradition, associated with Saint Savin. Additionally, it relates to the savin juniper plant, giving it nature-inspired connections. The name has moderate usage in Eastern European countries like Russia, Serbia, and Bulgaria but remains uncommon in Western nations. Savin possesses a contemporary sound despite its ancient origins, appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with historical depth. Its short, strong phonetics and relatively straightforward pronunciation make it accessible across different languages and cultures.

  5. Sari
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      Sari is a cute spin on Sarah, though some may hear it as "sorry," and it is also an item of clothing worn in India. These days many people will also confuse Sari with Suri, the lovely and unsual name of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' much-publicized young daughter.
  6. Nichole
    • Description:

      Nichole is a feminine name, a variant spelling of Nicole, which itself is the French feminine form of Nicholas. The name derives from Greek elements 'nike' meaning 'victory' and 'laos' meaning 'people,' thus conveying 'victory of the people.' This variation with an 'h' became particularly popular in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, offering a slightly more distinctive spelling than the more traditional Nicole. The name has a soft, feminine sound while maintaining a certain strength in its meaning. Though its peak popularity has passed, Nichole remains recognizable without being overly common. The name's classic roots provide substance, while its familiar sound ensures easy pronunciation and recognition across various cultures.
  7. Zsazsa
    • Origin:

      Hungarian, , diminutive of Erzsebet
    • Meaning:

      "God is my oath"
    • Description:

      Zsa Zsa is a zippy Hungarian nickname name, sometimes used independently, linked for decades with the Hungarian-born actress Zsa Zsa Gabor--who was born Sari.
  8. Angelov
    • Description:

      Angelov is a Bulgarian and Macedonian surname derived from the personal name Angel, which comes from the Greek word 'angelos' meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' As a family name, it follows the Slavic naming pattern with the suffix '-ov' indicating 'son of' or 'belonging to' Angel. While primarily used as a surname in Eastern European countries, particularly in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and parts of Russia, it occasionally appears as a masculine given name. The name carries religious connotations due to its association with heavenly messengers in Christian traditions. As a first name, Angelov remains relatively uncommon internationally but maintains cultural significance in Slavic regions.

  9. Dennes
    • Description:

      Dennes is a masculine name that likely originated as a variant spelling of Dennis or Denis. These names derive from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, fertility, and theater. The more common form, Dennis, came through the Latin Dionysius and was popularized through St. Denis, a 3rd-century bishop of Paris and patron saint of France. Pronounced DEN-is or DEN-ees, this variation with the double 'n' and 'es' ending gives the classic name a slightly different look while maintaining its traditional sound. Dennes is considerably rarer than Dennis, making it an uncommon choice that still feels familiar. The name carries connotations of resilience and spiritual dedication through its saintly connections while maintaining its ancient Greek roots.
  10. Ninotchka
    • Description:

      Ninotchka is a feminine name with Slavic roots, particularly Russian, where it serves as an affectionate diminutive form of Nina. The name gained international recognition through the 1939 film 'Ninotchka' starring Greta Garbo. Nina itself derives from names like Antonina or Giannina, ultimately connecting to roots meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The '-otchka' suffix in Russian indicates endearment and fondness. This name carries a distinctive cultural flavor and vintage Hollywood glamour. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ninotchka offers an exotic choice with recognizable cinematic associations. The name has a rhythmic, melodic quality with its three syllables and soft consonants.
  11. Edvin
    • Description:

      Edvin is a masculine name of Scandinavian and Slavic origin, representing a variant of Edwin. Derived from Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'wine' meaning 'friend,' Edvin translates to 'rich friend' or 'wealthy friend.' Particularly popular in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and parts of Eastern Europe, Edvin offers a modern-sounding alternative to Edwin while maintaining its historical roots. The name carries connotations of prosperity, loyalty, and friendship. Edvin has experienced periodic surges in popularity across Northern Europe and remains a steady choice in Scandinavian countries. Its concise form and smooth pronunciation make it appealing internationally, while its subtle difference from the more common Edwin gives it a distinctive quality that many parents appreciate.
  12. Gretl
    • Description:

      Gretl is a diminutive form of Margaret, used primarily in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria. The name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' with Gretl emerging as an affectionate, familiar version. Most famously associated with the younger sister in the Von Trapp family (portrayed in 'The Sound of Music'), Gretl carries folkloric charm and Alpine cultural associations. The name has a warm, endearing quality with its compact form and distinctive ending. While uncommon outside German-speaking countries, Gretl offers an appealing alternative to the more widely used Gretel or Greta. The name evokes a sense of European heritage and traditional charm, making it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural specificity and historical character.
  13. Benke
    • Origin:

      Hungarian diminutive of Benjamin and Benedek
    • Meaning:

      "son of the right hand; blessed; little Ben"
    • Description:

      An old diminutive of Benjamin and Benedek (the Hungarian form of Benedict), Benke can mean "little Ben" making it a charming and unexpected way to honor a Ben
  14. Daneil
    • Description:

      Daneil is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variation of Daniel, which comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my judge.' This particular spelling might be the result of transposing letters from the traditional spelling or could represent a regional variation. Despite its unusual spelling, the pronunciation typically remains the same as Daniel. The name carries the rich biblical heritage associated with Daniel, a figure known for wisdom and interpreting dreams. While much rarer than the standard Daniel spelling, Daneil offers the same strong consonant sounds and historical significance with a distinctive written form that sets it apart, though it may require occasional spelling clarification.

  15. Danika
    • Origin:

      Eastern European
    • Meaning:

      "morning star"
    • Description:

      Spelling variation of Danica with a modern update.
  16. Jozsi
    • Description:

      Jozsi is a feminine variant of the Hungarian name József, which is equivalent to Joseph. With its roots in Hebrew, it carries the meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' While primarily used in Hungary and among Hungarian communities worldwide, Jozsi is less common as a female name, as it's traditionally used as a diminutive form for males. The feminine variant has a warm, endearing quality with its soft ending, making it a unique choice for parents seeking a name with Eastern European heritage. Though rare internationally, Jozsi maintains cultural significance in Hungarian families and diaspora communities.
  17. Elizur
    • Description:

      Elizur is a masculine name with biblical Hebrew origins, appearing in the Old Testament as the name of a prince of the tribe of Reuben. The name means 'God is my rock' or 'my God is a rock,' reflecting strong religious significance and conveying qualities of steadfastness and reliability. Elizur has remained exceptionally rare throughout history, never achieving mainstream popularity even during periods when biblical names were widely used. The name combines the element 'El' (God) with 'zur' (rock or strength), creating a powerful theological statement. For parents seeking a deeply meaningful biblical name that remains distinctive and uncommon, Elizur offers both religious significance and uniqueness. Its biblical heritage gives it gravitas while its rarity ensures originality.
  18. Fredek
    • Description:

      Fredek is a masculine name with Slavic origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Frederick (or its equivalents like Fryderyk in Polish). The name ultimately derives from Germanic elements meaning 'peaceful ruler.' Popular primarily in Poland and other Slavic-speaking regions, Fredek carries a warm, approachable quality typical of Slavic diminutives. While the formal Frederick appears across many cultures, Fredek maintains cultural specificity and a distinctive character. The diminutive ending '-ek' adds an affectionate quality to this shortened form. Outside Slavic communities, the name remains quite uncommon but provides an interesting alternative for those with Polish heritage seeking a name that honors cultural roots while sounding friendly and accessible to English speakers.
  19. Edvina
    • Description:

      Edvina is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Edwina, which itself is the feminine form of Edwin. The name has Old English origins, combining the elements 'ead' meaning wealth or fortune and 'wine' meaning friend. This creates a beautiful meaning of 'wealthy friend' or 'prosperous friend.' The 'v' spelling gives the traditional name a slightly Slavic or Nordic flavor, potentially reflecting cross-cultural influences. Edvina projects an air of vintage elegance and sophistication that has never been extremely common but maintains a timeless quality. The name carries associations with nobility and dignity, having been used in aristocratic circles historically. While Edwina peaked in popularity in the early 20th century, Edvina remains a distinctive choice that balances traditional roots with a unique character.
  20. Rouben
    • Description:

      Rouben is a masculine name primarily used in Armenian culture, though it also appears in French and other European contexts. It's a variant of Reuben, which comes from the Hebrew name רְאוּבֵן (Re'uven), meaning 'behold, a son.' In the Bible, Reuben was the eldest son of Jacob and Leah. The Armenian version Rouben has been used for centuries within Armenian communities worldwide. The name carries historical significance in Armenian culture, with notable bearers including writers, artists, and political figures. While not extremely common globally, Rouben remains a traditional choice in Armenian families and communities, representing cultural heritage while being relatively easy to pronounce across different languages.

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