Russian Girl Names
- Vasilisa
Origin:
Feminization of Vasili, Russian from GreekMeaning:
"royal, kingly"Description:
Vasilisa is the feminine form of Vasili, the Russian translation of Basil.
- Karine
Origin:
French variation of Karen, form of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
The once super-popular Karen has gotten a bad name of late. Is Karine different enough to survive? Perhaps, though it may take a generation or two for a real comeback.
- Zenya
Description:
Zenya is a contemporary feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Xenia, which derives from Greek meaning "hospitality" or "foreign," or it could be related to the Russian diminutive Zhenya (from Eugenia/Evgenia). In Japanese contexts, Zenya could be an alternative romanization of various kanji combinations. The name has a modern, international appeal with its distinctive 'Z' beginning and melodic ending. While not widely common in any single culture, Zenya has gained modest recognition globally in recent decades as parents seek unique names with cross-cultural flexibility. Its exotic sound and relatively rare usage make it appealing to those wanting a distinctive name that's still relatively easy to pronounce in multiple languages. The name's freshness and contemporary feel have contributed to its gradual increase in popularity, particularly among parents seeking uncommon yet accessible names.
- Lera
Description:
Lera is a feminine given name with multiple origins. In Slavic countries, it functions as a diminutive of Valeria, meaning 'strength' or 'health.' In Greek contexts, it may relate to names derived from 'Leander,' meaning 'lion-man.' Lera has a simple, elegant sound with just two syllables, making it easily pronounceable across many languages. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, the name maintains a steady presence in Eastern European regions. Lera has a timeless quality that works well across generations. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its classical roots, potentially appealing to parents seeking something simple yet distinctive.
- Ksenia
Description:
Ksenia is a feminine name with deep Slavic roots, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. Derived from the Greek word "xenos" meaning "stranger" or "hospitality," it carries connotations of welcoming and generosity. Traditionally spelled "Xenia" in Western countries, the Slavic spelling with 'K' maintains its authentic cultural connection. The name gained wider recognition through figures like Russian Saint Ksenia of Petersburg and various contemporary celebrities. With its exotic sound and relatively uncommon usage in English-speaking countries, Ksenia offers a distinctive choice that's still accessible in pronunciation. The name combines strength and femininity with its crisp 'k' sound and melodic ending.
- Talya
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Natalya; also spelling variation of TaliaDescription:
See TALIA.
- Evgenia
Origin:
Greek; Russian; BulgarianMeaning:
"wellborne, noble"Description:
The Greek and Bulgarian form of Eugenia, or an alternate transcription of the Russian Yevgeniya.
- Varya
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"foreign"Description:
Short form of the Russian Varvara, a feistier version of Barbara.
- Asya
Origin:
Turkish; Russian and Bulgarian diminutive of AnastasiaMeaning:
"Asia; resurrection"Description:
Asya has dual origins: it is both the Turkish word for Asia (the continent), and a short form of Anastasia in Russian and Bulgarian. Beyond that, it is a beautiful example of a "travelling light" name, in the style of Aria: short, elegant, and usable across different cultures.
- Nastya
Description:
Nastya is a diminutive form of the Russian name Anastasia, which derives from the Greek word 'anastasis' meaning 'resurrection' or 'rebirth.' Commonly used as a nickname in Russia, Ukraine, and other Slavic countries, Nastya has a warm, familiar quality among native speakers. While it functions primarily as a nickname in Eastern Europe, some parents in Western countries have begun using it as a given name in its own right, appreciating its distinctive sound and cultural connections. Nastya carries the historical significance of its parent name Anastasia, which was popularized through Russian royal history, particularly Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. The name blends a traditional heritage with a modern, accessible feel.
- Yula
Description:
Yula is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic countries, it may be a diminutive form of Yulia or Julia, meaning 'youthful' or 'downy-bearded.' In Native American traditions, particularly among the Choctaw, Yula can mean 'spirit who travels.' The name also appears in some African cultures. Yula has a melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds, making it both distinctive and easy to pronounce across different languages. While not widely common in Western countries, it has seen occasional use throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name's simplicity and cross-cultural appeal give it a unique charm while remaining accessible and memorable.
- Inessa
Origin:
Russian variation of Ines; Spanish from GreekMeaning:
"pure, chaste"Description:
Inessa is a truly multi-cultural name, heard in Spain, Germany and Russia, and is related to the names Agnes and Ines/Inez.
- Jelena
Origin:
Russian, Serbian, Croatian, EstonianMeaning:
"light"Description:
A pretty international form of Helena used in many Slavic languages, also sometimes spelled Yelena.
- Venera
Description:
Venera is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. In several Slavic languages, particularly Russian, Bulgarian, and Serbian, Venera is the direct name for both the goddess and the planet Venus. The name carries strong associations with feminine beauty, love, and celestial brilliance. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Venera enjoys moderate popularity in Eastern European nations and parts of Central Asia. Its classical origins give it an elegant, timeless quality, while its relative rarity in Western contexts makes it distinctive. The name has a melodic flow with its three syllables and soft consonants. Venera appeals to parents drawn to names with classical mythology connections or those seeking to honor Slavic heritage while choosing a name that translates well across cultural boundaries.
- Sima
Description:
Sima is a feminine name with multicultural origins, appearing in Hebrew, Arabic, Indian, and Slavic naming traditions. In Hebrew, it means 'treasure' or 'valued,' while in Sanskrit it can mean 'boundary' or 'limit.' In Slavic languages, it may be related to the word for 'winter.' This short, melodic two-syllable name carries a gentle elegance and simplicity that transcends cultural boundaries. Sima has maintained consistent though modest usage across different regions, particularly in Jewish, Indian, and Eastern European communities. Its cross-cultural presence and positive meanings make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with both depth and accessibility.
- Zinaida
Origin:
Russian, from Greek, related to ZeusDescription:
This unusual name belonged to a character played by Kirsten Dunst in an early film.
- Panya
Origin:
African, Swahili; or, Russian, diminutive of StephaniaMeaning:
"mouse, tiny one; or, crowned one"Description:
Panya is a multicultural possibility with a sound that's pleasing to the English-speaking ear, though the Swahili translation, which might also be "rat," makes it less than savory as an African name.
- Zoyenka
Description:
Zoyenka is a feminine name with Slavic influences, likely a diminutive or elaborate form based on Zoya. The root name Zoya has Greek origins meaning 'life.' The suffix '-enka' is commonly used in Russian, Ukrainian, and other Slavic languages to create affectionate diminutive forms. Zoyenka carries a lyrical, almost musical quality with its flowing syllables. While extremely rare in most Western countries, it offers an exotic yet accessible option for parents drawn to Eastern European naming traditions. The name conveys warmth and cultural richness while remaining relatively easy to pronounce. Its uniqueness ensures it would be distinctive, yet its connection to the more familiar Zoya provides some grounding.
- Yekaterina
Origin:
Russian variation of KatherineDescription:
An intriguing, elaborate form of Catherine, although the similar Ekaterina may be more usable in Anglophone countries.
- Zoa
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"life"Description:
Possibly a variation of the ultra-popular Greek Zoe, Zoa was given to around 2 dozen baby girls each recent year.