Russian Names that Start With D
- Dimitri
Origin:
Russian from Greek DemetriusMeaning:
"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.
- Damien
Origin:
French from GreekMeaning:
"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)".
- Darya
Origin:
Russian or Persian, variation of Daria or feminine form of DariusMeaning:
"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".
- Dmitri
Origin:
Russian from Greek DemetriusDescription:
Worldly, artistic and attractive Slavic version of the name of the Greek god of fertility and farming.
- Dasha
Origin:
Diminutive of Dariya or Darya, RussianMeaning:
"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.
- Dunya
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"well-regarded"Description:
Courageous sister of Raskolnikov in Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment.
- 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.
- 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.'
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dimka
Description:
Dimka is a masculine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russia and Eastern European countries. It functions as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'Dim-' such as Dimitri, Dimo, or Dimitar, which derive from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning 'follower of Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). In Slavic usage, the suffix '-ka' adds an affectionate quality. Dimka has a warm, familiar feel in its native cultures while sounding distinctive elsewhere. The name carries a balance of strength and approachability. While not common internationally, it represents the rich tradition of Slavic diminutives that often function as everyday names.
- Denka
Description:
Denka is a masculine name with multicultural origins. In Slavic regions, particularly Bulgaria and Macedonia, it may be derived from the name Denis or function as a diminutive form. In some African cultures, particularly in parts of Sudan, Denka may relate to the Dinka people, one of the largest ethnic groups in South Sudan. The name carries connotations of strength and cultural heritage. While relatively uncommon globally, Denka has a distinctive quality that sets it apart. The name's simplicity in pronunciation contrasts with its unique cultural depth, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic cultural roots and individuality.
- Deniska
Origin:
Russian variation of Dennis, French from GreekMeaning:
"god of Nysa"
- Danya
Origin:
Russian variation of DanielDescription:
Appealing Daniel diminutive, similar to other Russian names like Vanya and Ilya.
- Dimitre
Description:
Dimitre is a masculine name of Slavic origin, specifically a Bulgarian variation of Dimitri or Dmitry. It derives from the Greek name Demetrios, which comes from Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and harvest in Greek mythology. The name conveys strength and connection to the earth. While less common in English-speaking countries, Dimitre maintains popularity in Eastern European nations, particularly Bulgaria and Macedonia. Its soft yet distinctive pronunciation distinguishes it from the more familiar Dimitri, giving it a unique quality while maintaining its classical roots. Bearers of this name often appreciate its cultural depth and slightly uncommon status in Western countries.
- 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.
- Duscha
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"happy"Description:
Seems like a possible alternative to the more popular Sascha, but middle school life would be difficult for any girl bearing this name in an English-speaking world.
- Dosya
Description:
Dosya is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly found in Russian-speaking regions. It often serves as a diminutive or endearing form of the name Fedosya or Theodosia, which means 'given by God.' With its soft sound and distinctive character, Dosya carries a gentle, melodious quality. The name remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, giving it an exotic and unique appeal. In its native cultural context, Dosya often evokes a sense of warmth and familiarity. The name's brevity and ending with 'ya' gives it a feminine touch while maintaining simplicity. For parents seeking a name with Slavic heritage that remains accessible to English speakers, Dosya offers an appealing option with rich cultural connections.