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. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Danika
    • Origin:

      Eastern European
    • Meaning:

      "morning star"
    • Description:

      Spelling variation of Danica with a modern update.
  11. 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.

  12. 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.

  13. Benedek
    • Origin:

      Hungarian, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "blessed"
    • Description:

      A dashing Hungarian form of Benedict that reads as a Benedict / Dominic combination, with an intriguing sound.
  14. Cyrek
    • Description:

      Cyrek is a masculine name with Slavic roots, particularly found in Polish naming traditions. It likely relates to names like Cyril (derived from Greek Kyrillos, meaning "lordly" or "masterful") but with a distinctively Polish spelling and pronunciation. The name carries an air of strength and heritage, with its crisp consonants and compact structure. Cyrek is very uncommon in English-speaking countries but may have more recognition in Eastern European communities. The unique combination of letters gives this name a strong, distinctive quality while maintaining pronounceability. Parents might choose Cyrek for its connection to Slavic heritage, its contemporary sound, or as an uncommon alternative to the more familiar Cyril. Its rarity makes it a standout choice while still having legitimate historical naming roots.

  15. 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.

  16. Antal
    • Origin:

      Hungarian, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from Antium"
    • Description:

      A unique Hungarian form of Anthony that makes a familiar name seem striking and fresh.
  17. Joli
    • Description:

      Joli is a delicate feminine name of French origin meaning 'pretty' or 'beautiful.' This concise name carries elegance in its simplicity, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking something short yet meaningful. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Joli has maintained a consistent quiet presence, particularly from the 1960s through the 1980s. The name evokes a sense of charm and femininity without being overly frilly. As a variation of the French word 'jolie,' it carries positive connotations across multiple cultures. The name's brevity makes it versatile as both a full name and a nickname, appealing to those who appreciate streamlined, distinctive naming options.

  18. Benedik
    • Description:

      Benedik is a masculine name with roots in Latin, derived from 'Benedictus' meaning 'blessed.' It's a variation of Benedict, which gained prominence through St. Benedict of Nursia, founder of the Benedictine monastic order. This name has appeared across various European cultures, particularly in Slavic and Germanic regions where it takes forms like Benedikt or Benedek. The name carries connotations of blessing, goodness, and spiritual favor. While less common than some international variants, Benedik offers a distinctive yet recognizable option with historical depth. Its popularity varies by region but generally remains modest, appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional roots and positive meaning.
  19. Daneila
    • Description:

      Daneila is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Daniela, which is the feminine form of Daniel. The name has Hebrew origins, derived from Daniel meaning "God is my judge." This alternative spelling maintains the melodic quality of Daniela while offering a slightly distinctive written form. Though less common than the standard spelling, Daneila shares the same appealing qualities: a beautiful flow, international recognition, and biblical heritage. The name carries connotations of wisdom and fairness from the biblical Daniel. For parents seeking a name with timeless appeal but a slightly unique spelling, Daneila offers familiarity with a touch of individuality.
  20. 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.