Russian Names that Start With D

  1. Damien
    • Origin:

      French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "to tame, subdue"
    • Description:

      Converting Damian to Damien – or Julian to Julien or Lucian to Lucien – adds a certain je ne sais quoi to names. But most people in English speaking areas will still pronounce this the same as the -an ending form. The French pronunciation is more like "dah-mee-u(n)".
  2. Dimitri
    • Origin:

      Russian from Greek Demetrius
    • Meaning:

      "follower of Demeter"
    • Description:

      Dimitri is a Slavic variation of the Russian Dmitriy, a name that comes from the Greek Demetrius. Demetrius was derived from Demeter, the name of the Greek goddess of fertility and farming. Among the possible spelling variations are Dmitri, Dmitrii, Dmitriy, and Dmitry.
  3. Dmitri
    • Origin:

      Russian from Greek Demetrius
    • Description:

      Worldly, artistic and attractive Slavic version of the name of the Greek god of fertility and farming.
  4. Dasha
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Dariya or Darya, Russian
    • Meaning:

      "possessing goodness"
    • Description:

      An energetic — dare we say dashing — Russian diminutive of Darya that hasn't caught on in the same way as Sasha has in the English speaking world.
  5. Darya
    • Origin:

      Russian or Persian, variation of Daria or feminine form of Darius
    • Meaning:

      "kingly; possessing goodness; the sea"
    • Description:

      The beguiling Darya is the name of a character in Tolstoy's Anna Karenina. As a Russian name, it's a spelling variation of Daria, while in Iran, it's a girl's name that means "the sea".
  6. Danylo
    • Description:

      Danylo is a masculine name of Ukrainian and Eastern Slavic origin, representing the Ukrainian form of Daniel. The name derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my judge.' Danylo has deep historical roots in Ukraine, being the name of several important historical figures including Danylo Romanovych, the first King of Ruthenia in the 13th century. The name features the distinctive Slavic spelling pattern with the 'y' replacing the 'i' found in other variants. While primarily used in Ukraine and by Ukrainian diaspora communities, Danylo has gained modest international recognition as interest in Eastern European names has increased. The name offers a strong cultural connection while maintaining links to the widely recognized biblical name, combining heritage with accessibility.

  7. Demyan
    • Description:

      Demyan is a masculine Slavic name, particularly common in Russia and Ukraine. It derives from the Greek name Damian (Δαμιανός/Damianos), which means 'to tame' or 'subdue.' The name gained significance in Christian tradition through Saint Damian, who alongside his brother Cosmas, was known for healing the sick without payment. In Russian culture, Demyan appears in folklore and literature, including famous works by Pushkin. While maintaining steady popularity in Eastern European countries, the name remains relatively uncommon in Western nations. Demyan offers a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Damian while retaining its historical depth and cross-cultural appeal, with a strong, masculine sound and rich cultural heritage.

  8. Dima
    • Description:

      Dima is a masculine name with Slavic and Arabic origins, representing two distinct naming traditions. In Slavic countries, particularly Russia and Ukraine, it functions as a diminutive of Dmitri or Dmitry, derived from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning 'devoted to Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). In Arabic usage, Dima means 'persistent rain' and can be used for both genders, though more commonly for girls in this context. The name is pronounced DEE-ma in Slavic countries and DEE-ma or di-MA in Arabic regions. Dima's brevity, international recognition, and strong sound have contributed to its steady popularity, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
  9. Danilka
    • Description:

      Danilka is a masculine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It serves as an affectionate diminutive form of Daniel, which has Hebrew origins meaning "God is my judge." The suffix "-ka" in Slavic languages adds a sense of endearment and familiarity. Danilka maintains the strong biblical connections of its root name while offering a more distinctive and culturally specific variation. While common as a nickname within Slavic families, it's relatively rare as a formal given name in Western countries, making it a unique choice outside of Eastern Europe. The name carries a warm, friendly quality while honoring Slavic naming traditions.

  10. Daniil
    • Origin:

      Greek; Russian; Belarusian
    • Meaning:

      "God is my judge"
    • Description:

      The Greek, Russian and Belarusian form of Daniel.
  11. Dunya
    • Origin:

      Russian
    • Meaning:

      "well-regarded"
    • Description:

      Courageous sister of Raskolnikov in Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment.
  12. Dariya
    • Description:

      Dariya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic countries, particularly Russia and Ukraine, it's a variation of Daria, derived from the Persian name Daraya meaning 'sea' or from the Greek name Dareios meaning 'possessing goodness.' In Hindi and Sanskrit, Dariya means 'ocean' or 'river.' The name has been used consistently throughout Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and South Asia for centuries. Dariya has a melodious, flowing quality that reflects its aquatic meanings across cultures. Its international character makes it accessible in multiple languages while maintaining its distinctive charm. In recent years, as global names have gained popularity, Dariya has seen increased usage in Western countries, appealing to parents seeking a beautiful, meaningful name with international roots.

  13. Dmitrik
    • Description:

      Dmitrik is a masculine name with Slavic origins, likely a diminutive form of Dmitri (or Dmitry), which itself derives from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning 'devoted to Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). This variation adds a distinctive ending that gives the name a more intimate, affectionate quality while maintaining its strong Slavic identity. Popular primarily in Eastern European countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, Dmitrik remains quite rare in Western nations. The name carries connotations of strength and cultural heritage, often associated with Slavic historical figures and literature. For parents with Eastern European connections seeking something traditional yet not overly common, Dmitrik offers an intriguing option with rich cultural resonances.
  14. Deniskov
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Dennis, French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "god of Nysa"
  15. Danil
    • Description:

      Danil is a masculine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It serves as a variant of Daniel, which comes from Hebrew and means 'God is my judge.' In Slavic cultures, Danil is pronounced with emphasis on the second syllable (dah-NEEL). The name carries the same biblical heritage as Daniel, referring to the prophet who survived the lion's den in the Old Testament. While less common in Western countries, Danil has been gaining some recognition as global naming practices become more diverse. The name combines strength and history with a slightly exotic feel for English speakers. Its short, two-syllable structure makes it accessible across languages while maintaining its distinctive Slavic character.

  16. Danya
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Daniel
    • Description:

      Appealing Daniel diminutive, similar to other Russian names like Vanya and Ilya.
  17. Dema
    • Description:

      Dema is a masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Arabic, it means "lasting" or "eternal," while in Russian and Ukrainian, it functions as a diminutive of Demyan or Demian (derived from Damian, meaning "to tame" or "subdue"). The name also appears in Greek mythology where Dema was associated with the earth and agriculture. Despite its multicultural background, Dema remains relatively uncommon in Western countries. It offers a concise, strong-sounding option for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel, while its various cultural connections provide depth and meaning. Dema's simplicity allows it to travel well across language boundaries.

  18. Damyan
    • Description:

      Damyan is a masculine name of Slavic origin, specifically popular in Bulgaria, Russia, and other Eastern European countries. It's a variant of Damian, which derives from the Greek name Damianos, meaning 'to tame' or 'subdue'. The name carries historical significance as it was borne by Saint Damian, a physician who, with his brother Cosmas, provided medical services without charge. Damyan combines strength with compassion in its cultural associations. While not among the most common names in Western countries, Damyan has maintained steady popularity in Slavic regions, appreciated for its traditional roots and distinctive yet accessible sound.
  19. 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.'
  20. Daniell
    • Description:

      Daniell is a masculine name primarily serving as a variant spelling of Daniel, which comes from Hebrew meaning 'God is my judge.' This alternative spelling adds distinction to the traditional biblical name while maintaining its strong historical and religious connections. The name Daniel appears in the Old Testament as a prophet known for wisdom and faith. The Daniell variant likely emerged as a surname or to indicate 'son of Daniel' before being adopted as a given name. While less common than the standard spelling, this variation offers a subtle uniqueness while preserving the familiar sound and meaning. It carries the same dignified qualities as Daniel with a slightly more uncommon presentation.

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