Russian Girl Names

  1. Annik
    • Origin:

      Russian diminutive of Annika or Ann
    • Meaning:

      "grace"
    • Description:

      Annik is a pleasing combination of unusual and familiar. As first Ann and now Anna become overused, you might want to explore its wilder variations such as this Eastern European short form.
  2. Lutza
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Louise, feminine variation of Louis, German and French
    • Meaning:

      "renowned warrior"
    • Description:

      Lutza is largely unknown in the English-speaking world and might remain that way, due to its resemblance to klutz.
  3. Lesya
    • Description:

      Lesya is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Ukraine where it serves as a diminutive form of Oleksandra (Ukrainian variant of Alexandra). The name gained prominence through Ukrainian writer and poet Lesya Ukrainka (pen name of Larysa Kosach), one of Ukraine's most celebrated literary figures. Lesya has a lyrical quality with its soft consonants and flowing vowel sounds. While maintaining its strong cultural ties to Eastern European heritage, particularly Ukrainian identity, the name travels well across language boundaries due to its relatively straightforward pronunciation. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Lesya offers an accessible yet distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Slavic roots and literary connections.
  4. Nadysha
    • Description:

      Nadysha is a beautiful feminine name with Russian origins, derived from the name Nadezhda, which means "hope" in Russian. The suffix "-sha" is a diminutive form, giving the name an affectionate quality. While not commonly used in Western countries, Nadysha has a melodic sound that makes it distinctive and memorable. The name carries cultural significance in Slavic communities and evokes qualities of optimism and perseverance. Its uniqueness makes it stand out while still being relatively easy to pronounce across different languages. In recent years, parents seeking unusual yet meaningful names have been drawn to options like Nadysha that combine cultural richness with a pleasing sound.

  5. Tamarka
    • Description:

      Tamarka is an uncommon feminine name that likely developed as an elaboration of Tamara or Tamar. With roots in Hebrew, Tamar means 'date palm' or 'palm tree,' symbolizing fertility and beauty in biblical contexts. The addition of the -ka suffix might reflect Slavic or Eastern European naming customs, where such diminutive endings are common. Tamarka has an exotic, international quality while maintaining connections to the more familiar Tamara. The name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique with authentic historical roots. Its melodic three-syllable pattern gives it a rhythmic, memorable quality that balances uniqueness with pronounceability.
  6. Lavra
    • Description:

      Lavra is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly found in regions like Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It may derive from the ancient Greek word 'laura,' which referred to a collection of cells or caves where monks lived in early Christian communities. In Russian Orthodox tradition, the term 'lavra' designates important monasteries of historical and spiritual significance. As a personal name, Lavra has remained relatively uncommon even in its countries of origin. The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and open vowel sounds. Lavra might appeal to parents seeking a unique name with religious or cultural connections to Eastern European heritage.

  7. Kostenka
    • Description:

      Kostenka is a rare feminine name likely of Slavic origin. It may be derived from East Slavic languages, possibly as a diminutive form of names containing the root 'kost' (meaning 'bone' or 'firm'). Alternatively, it could reference Kostenki, a significant archaeological site in Russia. The name has a rhythmic quality with its three syllables and feminine 'a' ending typical of many Slavic female names. Very uncommon outside of Eastern European regions, Kostenka carries an exotic quality for Western audiences. The name blends strength and softness in its sound, with historical connections that give it depth despite its rarity.
  8. Deniska
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Dennis, French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "god of Nysa"
  9. 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.'
  10. Natashya
    • Origin:

      Variation of Natasha
    • Meaning:

      "born on Christmas Day"
    • Description:

      Tori Amos added a little extra something to the already pretty elaborate Natasha for her daughter's name.
  11. Arkadina
    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Arkady
    • Meaning:

      "from Arcadia"
    • Description:

      Arkadina was thrust into the limelight as one of the (many) middle names of Uma Thurman and Arpad Busson's little girl. The Slavic or Russian feminine form of Arkady, which is derived from the ancient Greek name Arkadios, is the equivalent of the English Arcadia -- a heavenly place. For most English speakers, the Arcadia form would be more compatible.
  12. Lyonechika
    • Description:

      Lyonechika is an extremely rare feminine name with multicultural influences. It appears to blend elements that might include French ('Lyon,' meaning lion), Japanese ('chika,' which can mean 'wisdom' or 'scattered flowers' depending on the kanji used), and Slavic feminine endings. This distinctive combination creates a unique global fusion name. Due to its rarity, Lyonechika has no established traditional usage pattern or widespread recognition. The name's exotic sound and unusual letter combination give it a memorable quality. While challenging to pronounce for some, its uniqueness ensures individuality. Lyonechika might appeal to parents seeking an extremely distinctive name with international elements, though its complexity and unusual structure mean bearers would likely need to frequently explain both pronunciation and origin.
  13. Varenka
    • Description:

      Varenka is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russian and Eastern European cultures. It functions as a diminutive or affectionate form of Varvara, which is the Slavic equivalent of Barbara, meaning "foreign" or "strange" in its Greek roots. Varenka gained some literary recognition through Tolstoy's novel "Anna Karenina," where it appears as a character name. The name carries a distinctly romantic, old-world charm with its melodic quality and distinctive ending. While uncommon in Western countries, it offers a connection to Eastern European heritage for families with such backgrounds. Varenka combines feminine softness with a certain strength and uniqueness that appeals to parents seeking something traditional yet not overused.

  14. Lelya
    • Description:

      Lelya is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Leila or Layla, names with Arabic origins meaning 'night' or 'dark beauty.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Russian diminutive of Elena (Lelya) or have connections to similar-sounding names in various cultures. The name has a delicate, flowing quality with its soft consonants and open vowel sounds. While never achieving widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Lelya has a cross-cultural appeal with its simple, melodic structure. The name's brevity and ease of pronunciation make it accessible across language barriers, while its relative rarity offers a sense of uniqueness without seeming invented or difficult to recognize.
  15. Tasya
    • Description:

      Tasya is a feminine name that originated as a Russian diminutive of Anastasia, meaning 'resurrection' or 'she who will be reborn.' It has also gained popularity in Indonesia, where it may be derived from Sanskrit elements meaning 'thread' or 'weaver.' The name has a delicate, melodic quality that crosses cultural boundaries easily. In Eastern European contexts, Tasya conveys warmth and familiarity, while maintaining a connection to the more formal Anastasia. Throughout the 2000s, the name has seen modest but steady usage globally, particularly appreciated for its exotic feel in Western countries while remaining recognizable. Tasya strikes a balance between uniqueness and accessibility, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that sounds feminine and graceful yet not overly common.

  16. Arinka
    • Description:

      Arinka is a feminine name with Slavic and Russian origins, functioning as a diminutive form of names like Arina or Irina. These names ultimately derive from the Greek 'Eirene,' meaning 'peace.' The suffix '-ka' is a common diminutive ending in Slavic languages, adding a sense of endearment and affection. Arinka carries a melodic quality with its gentle rhythm and flowing sound. While uncommon in Western countries, it has maintained some usage in Eastern European communities. The name has a delicate, feminine appeal while still offering uniqueness in most international contexts. Its connection to the concept of peace gives it a meaningful foundation beyond its pleasing sound.
  17. Zoyechka
    • Description:

      Zoyechka is a feminine name of Russian origin, functioning as an affectionate diminutive form of Zoya. In Russian naming traditions, adding the suffix "-echka" creates a tender, endearing version of the base name, used among family and close friends. Zoya itself derives from the Greek name Zoe, meaning "life." This diminutive form carries all the meaning of its root while adding warmth and intimacy. Primarily found in Russian-speaking communities, Zoyechka represents the rich tradition of Russian hypocorisms (affectionate name forms). Outside of Russian culture, the name is quite rare, making it distinctive but potentially challenging for non-Russian speakers to pronounce correctly. The name combines exotic appeal with genuine cultural significance and a meaning connected to vitality and existence.
  18. Maiya
    • Description:

      Maiya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Sanskrit, it relates to 'illusion' or 'magic,' while in Hebrew it can mean 'wished-for child.' It's also found in Japanese culture where it might be connected to the word for 'dance.' The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek distinctive yet approachable alternatives to more common names like Maya or Maia. Maiya offers a fresh twist on these similar names while maintaining an easy pronunciation. Its cross-cultural presence gives it versatility and broad appeal. The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and vowel sounds, contributing to its increasingly favorable reception.
  19. Fedosia
    • Description:

      Fedosia is a feminine name with Greek and Russian origins. It derives from the Greek name Theodosia, meaning 'gift of God,' and was adapted into Russian as Феодосия (Feodosiya). This elegant, historical name has ancient roots but remains quite rare in modern usage. The name carries a dignified, classical quality and bears connection to several saints and the ancient Greek city of Theodosia (now Feodosia) in Crimea. Despite its rarity, Fedosia offers parents an option with both cultural depth and a beautiful sound. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive ending. For families with Russian, Greek, or Eastern Orthodox heritage, Fedosia provides a meaningful connection to cultural and religious traditions.

  20. Anhelina
    • Description:

      Anhelina is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly common in Ukrainian and Polish cultures. It's a variation of Angelina, ultimately derived from the Greek word 'angelos' meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' The distinctive 'h' in Anhelina reflects the pronunciation in Eastern European languages where the 'g' sound is often softened. The name carries connotations of heavenly beauty and gentleness. While less familiar in Western countries than Angelina, Anhelina has gained some international recognition through migration and cultural exchange. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending. For parents with Eastern European heritage, Anhelina offers a way to honor cultural roots while giving their daughter a name with spiritual associations and feminine elegance.