Russian Girl Names

  1. Lyonya
    • Description:

      Lyonya is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly connected to Russian naming traditions. It may function as a diminutive form of names like Leonid or Yelena, or as an independent given name. The distinctive 'y' letters give the name an exotic, international flair, while its flowing sound creates a melodic quality. Relatively uncommon in Western countries, Lyonya carries cultural significance in Eastern European communities. The name has a soft, lyrical pronunciation that contributes to its feminine appeal. While unfamiliar to many English speakers, its intuitive spelling makes it accessible despite its exotic origins. Lyonya might appeal to parents seeking a name with international flair and distinctive character without being difficult to pronounce. The name conveys a sense of cultural richness and uniqueness.
  2. Oksana
    • Origin:

      Russian from Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "praise to God"
    • Description:

      Ukrainian figure-skating champion Oksana Baiul made it known here.
  3. Sabyne
    • Description:

      Sabyne is a feminine name representing an alternative spelling of Sabine, which has ancient Roman roots. It refers to the Sabine people, an Italian tribe from the central Apennine region of ancient Italy. The name carries historical significance through the legendary episode of the 'Rape of the Sabine Women' in Roman mythology. The 'y' spelling gives this classical name a modern, distinctive touch. Sabyne has been more popular in French-speaking regions and parts of Europe than in English-speaking countries. It offers a sophisticated sound with its smooth pronunciation and elegant ending. Parents might choose this spelling variation for its blend of historical depth and contemporary flair.
  4. Roza
    • Origin:

      Russian and Polish variation of Rosa
    • Description:

      Adds some zest to Rosa.
  5. Zoia
    • Origin:

      Slavic variation of Zoe
    • Description:

      See ZOE.
  6. Vilma
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Vilhelmina; a Polish place-name
    • Description:

      Not much to recommend this relative of Wilma; consider Willa or Willow instead.
  7. Olya
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Olga
    • Meaning:

      "hearty, holy"
    • Description:

      Makes the intriguing Olga even more so.
  8. Nadya
    • Origin:

      Slavic and Russian
    • Meaning:

      "hope"
    • Description:

      Nadya and Nadia are Eastern European short forms -- for the more difficult Nadezhda -- now fully accepted on their own.
  9. Narkissa
    • Description:

      Narkissa is a feminine name that appears to be a variant of Narcissa, which derives from the Greek word 'narkissos' meaning 'daffodil' or 'narcissus flower.' In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a hunter known for his beauty who fell in love with his own reflection. Despite potential associations with vanity from the myth, the name carries the beauty and delicacy of its floral origins. Narkissa is quite rare, offering an exotic alternative to more common floral names. The unique spelling with 'k' instead of 'c' gives it a distinctive quality while maintaining its classical Greek heritage. Its melodic sound and uncommon nature make it appealing to parents seeking a name that combines ancient roots with contemporary uniqueness.

  10. Marisha
    • Description:

      Marisha is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russian and Eastern European cultures. It developed as a diminutive form of Maria (Mary), carrying the same Hebrew roots meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved.' The name has a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining an exotic feel in Western countries. Marisha gained some recognition in the United States during the late 20th century as cultural boundaries expanded and Eastern European names became more familiar. The name strikes a balance between being recognizable and distinctive, with its melodic three-syllable pronunciation. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Marisha appeals to parents seeking a name with international flair that remains accessible to English speakers, combining the familiarity of Maria with a fresh, softer sound.

  11. Orina
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Irene
    • Description:

      Better: Irina.
  12. Tatyana
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Tatiana
    • Description:

      Tatyana, an alternate spelling of the lovely Tatiana, definitely has its followers.
  13. Dusya
    • Description:

      Dusya is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russian-speaking cultures. It functions as a diminutive or endearing form of names like Eudoxia (meaning 'good reputation' or 'good glory') or Evdokia. In Russian naming traditions, diminutives like Dusya express affection and familiarity. The name carries a warm, intimate feeling in its native context, though it remains quite rare outside of Eastern European communities. Despite its unfamiliarity in Western countries, Dusya has a gentle, melodic quality that makes it accessible to English speakers. The name evokes a sense of cultural heritage and old-world charm while maintaining a sweet, approachable character through its soft sounds and ending with the feminine 'a.'
  14. Luba
    • Origin:

      Russian, Slavic, Yiddish, "love, lover, dear"
    • Meaning:

      "love, lover, dear"
    • Description:

      Its association with the word liebe gives this name an endearing, adored aura.
  15. Agnia
    • Description:

      Agnia is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russia and Eastern European countries. The name derives from the Greek word 'hagnos' meaning 'pure' or 'chaste.' It is related to the more common Agnes but maintains its distinct Slavic character. Throughout history, Agnia has been associated with several Orthodox saints, giving it religious significance. While not widely used in Western countries, Agnia has maintained steady popularity in Russia and parts of Eastern Europe. The name carries connotations of purity, innocence and strength of character, making it an elegant yet meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with deep historical roots.

  16. Zinovia
    • Origin:

      Variation of Zenobia, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "force of Zeus"
    • Description:

      Zinovia and Zenobia might be thought of as mythological adjacent names, with their meaning connected to Zeus, king of the Gods. The name Zinovia was given to fewer than ten baby girls in the US last year, versus about 30 who were named Zenobia.
  17. Nelya
    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Helen, Eleanor, et al: "bright, shining one"
    • Meaning:

      "bright, shining one"
  18. Natalya
    • Origin:

      Russian from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "natal day, Christmas"
    • Description:

      Perfect name for a little girl born at Christmas. Its many variations and pet forms include Natalia, Nataliya, Natalie, Nataly, Natascha, Talya, Talia, Tasha and Tasya.
  19. Roksana
    • Origin:

      Polish and Russian variation of Roxane
    • Description:

      Plausible name for parents with Slavic roots, known as the wife of Alexander the Great.
  20. Nastasya
    • Description:

      Nastasya is a feminine name with Slavic origins, derived from the Russian form of Anastasia, which means 'resurrection' in Greek. This elegant variant maintains the mystical quality of its root name while offering a distinctly Eastern European flair. Nastasya gained some recognition in Western countries through Russian literature, particularly through Dostoevsky's character Nastasya Filippovna in 'The Idiot.' While less common than Anastasia in English-speaking countries, Nastasya appeals to parents seeking a name with both sophistication and cultural depth. The name carries an air of enigmatic beauty and strength, making it an intriguing choice for those drawn to names with rich historical and literary connections.