Slavic Names for Boys

Effortlessly stylish with an international feel, Milan re-entered the US charts back in 2013 after a 55 year hiatus. It has been powering up the charts ever since, following in the footsteps of sweet sound-alike Mila, and spotlighted by singer Shakira, who chose it for her son.

Parents are beginning to look at imposing, somewhat fusty-sounding names like this one with fresh eyes: they definitely make a strong statement.

Vladimir is a cultured and deep-rooted Slavic name associated in this country with cultural figures including piano virtuoso Vladimir Horowitz and the author of Lolita, Vladimir Nabokov.

Damek, which you might think of as Adam with a Slavic accent, considerably freshens up the original.

Boris is one of the old Russian names being revived by chic Europeans; it hasn't quite made a comeback yet in the U.S., but it does have potential.

Jovan, the name of the supreme Roman deity, seems more extraterrestrial now -- and it's also firmly attached to a perfume label. Some parents may see it as a variation of Giovanni, the Italian for John. It is in fact the Slavic variation of John and may be an original way to honor an ancestral John.

With the new trend of boys' names rising on the heels of their popular sisters, the unusual-yet-familiar-feeling Emilian might become better known thanks to its relationship to Emily and Emilia/Amelia. Rather than being two branches of the same tree, Emilian and Emily are actually one tree while Emmett and Emma hang on a whole separate tree. But all have a lot of modern appeal, and Emilian may be a more attractive and intriguing male form than Emil. There was a St. Emilian.

Commonly heard in Hungary and some Slavic countries, Tibor has a large measure of continental dash. The name derives from the Roman town of Tibur, now called Tivoli. It is a Top 100 pick for baby boys in its native Hungary.

Michal may be one of several Eastern European forms of Michael, though there is a biblical Michal who is female, the daughter of Saul and wife of David.

Ziven is a sleek choice with multicultural origins and a bright, energized feel to it. From its Slavic roots, it likely derives from the South Slavic word, živ meaning "alive, living", making it a relative to Živko and Živka, which are used in Serbia and Croatia. It may also be considered a masculine form of Zivena (also called Živa), the goddess of life, love, and fertility in Slavic mythology. It may then also be spelled as Živan.

This unusual name, which is jauntier than Chris when used as a diminutive of Christopher, is associated with the Bulgarian installation artist of that name, responsible for wrapping many public institutions and known especially for The Gates of Central Park and Running Fence. Christo is his full given name.

Gives a good boy name a bad boy feel.

Related to the Russian name Nikolai, this is a fresh and worldly form of a popular favorite.

Vasilii is a masculine name of Slavic origin, representing an alternate transliteration of the Russian name Василий (more commonly spelled Vasily or Vasiliy in English). The name derives from the Greek Basileios meaning "royal" or "kingly," sharing roots with the word "basileus" (king). Highly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries, Vasilii has been borne by numerous notable figures including composer Vasilii Kalinnikov and several Russian tsars. The name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and cultural heritage. While less common in Western countries, it remains an authentic choice for parents seeking to honor Slavic or Russian ancestry, offering a distinctive alternative to the more internationally recognized form Basil.

Off-putting cousin of Bradley and Rodney.

Attractive attenuated form of the popular Christopher, well used throughout Europe, appearing as Christophe in France and Christoph in Germany.

In Eastern Europe, more fashionable these days than Vladimir.

Ferdynandy is a masculine name that appears to be an uncommon variant or elaboration of Ferdinand, which has Germanic roots meaning 'brave journey' or 'bold protector.' The standard name Ferdinand has historical significance across Europe, having been borne by several monarchs and nobles. This particular spelling, Ferdynandy, with its distinctive ending, is extremely rare and may represent a regional variant or creative adaptation. The unusual form might be found in Eastern European contexts or could be a modern invented variation. While the traditional Ferdinand carries associations with nobility and exploration, Ferdynandy has a whimsical quality while still connecting to the respected heritage of its root name.

A fresh and rare Leo name that fits in and stands out.

Diminutive for all the Slavic names that start with Jar-. If for family or cultural reasons you're seeking such a name, then this is a reasonable short form.