Russian Names for Boys
- Kharald
Description:
Kharald is a masculine name that appears to be a modern variation of Harald or Harold, names with Norse origins meaning 'army commander' or 'leader of warriors.' The distinctive spelling with 'Kh' instead of 'H' gives the name an exotic quality while maintaining connections to its historical roots. This uncommon spelling variant may have emerged from parents seeking to create a more unique version of the traditional name, possibly influenced by Eastern European or Central Asian naming conventions where 'Kh' consonant combinations are more common. While extremely rare in official records, Kharald offers the gravitas and warrior heritage of the original Harald/Harold with a contemporary twist. The name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and Norse heritage, making it appealing to parents interested in both historical significance and distinctive spelling.
- Samvel
Description:
Samvel is a masculine name of Armenian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Samuel, meaning "heard by God" or "name of God." In Armenian culture, Samvel has been widely used for centuries and remains a popular choice that honors cultural heritage. The name carries strong biblical connections through its relation to Samuel, an important prophet in the Old Testament. Samvel has a dignified quality with its distinctive sound that sets it apart from the more commonly used Samuel in Western countries. While primarily used within Armenian communities worldwide, it occasionally appears in other Eastern European and Middle Eastern cultures. The name projects strength and wisdom while maintaining a melodic quality in pronunciation.
- Benedikt
Description:
Benedikt is the Germanic and Eastern European spelling of Benedict, a name with Latin origins meaning 'blessed.' This variant is particularly popular in countries like Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and other Central European nations. The name carries significant historical and religious weight, as it was borne by Saint Benedict of Nursia, who founded the Benedictine monastic order in the 6th century. It also recalls Pope Benedict XVI, who was born Joseph Ratzinger in Bavaria, Germany. Benedikt has a strong, classic feel with the distinctive 'k' ending giving it a slightly more rugged quality than its Latin counterpart. While maintaining its traditional appeal across Central Europe, the name has seen increased international recognition in recent decades. It offers parents a name with deep historical roots and positive spiritual associations.
- Garolds
Description:
Garolds is an extremely rare masculine name that appears to be a variant of Gerald or Harold, both names of Germanic origin. Gerald derives from elements meaning 'spear' and 'rule,' while Harold combines elements meaning 'army' and 'power.' The unusual ending with the 's' suggests possible Baltic or Eastern European influence, as this construction is more common in languages like Latvian. Given its rarity, Garolds has little documented usage in mainstream English-speaking countries. The name carries the strength and traditional qualities of its more common counterparts while offering a distinctive twist. Its uniqueness would make it stand out, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with historical roots and a strong, masculine sound.
- Mitya
Description:
Mitya is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning as a diminutive or nickname for Dmitri (also spelled Dmitry or Dimitri). The root name Dmitri derives from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning "follower of Demeter," the goddess of agriculture and fertility. Mitya carries a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining its Slavic heritage. In Russian literature, the name appears notably in Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" as the nickname for the character Dmitri. While uncommon outside of Russian-speaking regions, it offers an accessible yet distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Eastern European roots. The name conveys both strength and approachability, with its short, rhythmic sound pattern and rich cultural connections.
- Georgi
Origin:
Russian variation of GeorgeDescription:
Spelling it with a double I -- GEORGII -- makes it ultradistinctive, and less a generic Georgie.
- Akim
Origin:
Russian form of Hebrew JEHOIAKIMMeaning:
"God will establish"Description:
This strong and commanding Russian name is pronounced ah-KEEM.
- Avraam
Description:
Avraam is a variant of the Hebrew name Abraham, which means 'father of multitudes.' This form of the name is particularly common in Greek, Russian, and other Eastern European cultures. Avraam carries the same biblical significance as its more common variants, being associated with the patriarch Abraham from the Old Testament who is regarded as the father of the Jewish nation. While not as widely used in Western countries, Avraam maintains popularity in Orthodox Christian communities and regions with strong biblical traditions. The name conveys wisdom, leadership, and a strong spiritual heritage, making it an enduring choice for parents seeking a name with deep historical and religious significance.
- Vasya
Description:
Vasya is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning primarily as an affectionate diminutive of the name Vasily (Russian form of Basil, meaning 'royal' or 'kingly'). Common throughout Russia and other Slavic countries, Vasya maintains a warm, familiar quality that makes it popular as a nickname rather than a formal given name. In Russian culture, diminutives like Vasya play an important role in expressing closeness in relationships. The name carries cultural significance in Slavic literature and folk traditions, where characters named Vasya often represent the everyday Russian man. Though rarely used as a legal name in international contexts, Vasya's simple pronunciation and friendly sound have given it recognition beyond Slavic countries.
- Panas
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"immortal"Description:
Enviable meaning, but off-putting sound.
- Denya
Description:
Denya is an uncommon masculine name with diverse origins. It may be a variant of Denis or Dennis, which derives from the Greek name Dionysios, referring to the follower of Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry. In some cultures, Denya could be considered a diminutive form of Daniel, meaning "God is my judge." Alternatively, it might have Slavic roots, where similar names are used. Despite its masculine classification, Denya occasionally appears as a feminine name in some regions. The name remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality for those seeking an uncommon name with a gentle yet masculine sound.
- Sergie
Description:
Sergie is a variant spelling of Sergei, which is a Russian form of the Latin name Sergius. The name has ancient Roman roots and was borne by several early Christian saints. Sergie conveys strength and dignity, derived from the Latin 'servus' meaning 'servant' or possibly from an ancient Roman clan name. While less common than the standard Sergei or Sergio forms, Sergie maintains the distinguished quality of its origin. The name gained some international recognition through notable Russians including composer Sergei Rachmaninoff and ballet impresario Sergei Diaghilev. Sergie offers a slightly unique spelling variation for parents seeking a name with Eastern European heritage and historical depth.
- Savya
Origin:
Indian, HindiMeaning:
"Lord Vishnu"Description:
An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.
- Samoyla
Description:
Samoyla is a masculine name with Slavic origins, likely derived from the Hebrew name Samuel (meaning 'heard by God') but adapted with a distinctive Slavic suffix. This uncommon name appears primarily in Eastern European contexts, particularly in regions with Russian, Ukrainian, or Polish influences. Samoyla carries a traditional, somewhat formal quality while remaining melodic and accessible. The name maintains connections to biblical tradition through its root while offering a unique cultural variation that sets it apart from more common forms. Though rare even within Slavic communities, it represents the rich tradition of adapting biblical names to local linguistic patterns. Samoyla's distinctiveness makes it a noteworthy choice for parents seeking to honor Slavic heritage with a name that carries historical depth.
- Illarion
Description:
Illarion is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the name Hilarion, which comes from the Greek word 'hilaros' meaning 'cheerful' or 'joyful.' The name has historical significance through Saint Hilarion, a 4th-century monk and hermit who was a disciple of Saint Anthony the Great. Illarion is particularly common in Russia and other Eastern Orthodox countries where it has been used for centuries. The name follows different spelling conventions in various cultures, with Illarion being the typical Russian form. While not widely used in Western countries, it maintains steady usage in Eastern European and Slavic regions, appreciated for its historical depth and positive meaning.
- Venedikt
Description:
Venedikt is a masculine name of Slavic origin, predominantly used in Russia and Eastern European countries. It is the Slavic form of Benedict, which derives from the Latin 'benedictus' meaning 'blessed.' The name carries significant religious heritage, connected to Saint Benedict of Nursia, who founded the Benedictine monastic order in the 6th century. In Russian culture, Venedikt maintained moderate popularity through the medieval and imperial periods, though it became less common during the Soviet era. Contemporary usage remains limited, giving the name a distinctive quality. Notable bearers include Russian writer Venedikt Yerofeyev. The name conveys qualities of spiritual blessing and historical tradition while maintaining its unique Slavic character.
- Edmon
Description:
Edmon is a masculine name derived from the Old English elements "ead" meaning wealth or fortune and "mund" meaning protection. It's a variant spelling of the more common Edmund or Edmond, which has deep historical roots tracing back to Anglo-Saxon England. The name was popularized by several saints and kings named Edmund, including St. Edmund the Martyr, an East Anglian king. Edmon offers a slightly modernized twist on the traditional spelling while maintaining its dignified heritage. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Edmon has a timeless quality that balances classical origins with contemporary appeal.
- Damyon
Description:
Damyon is a modern variation of Damian or Damien, names with ancient roots. The traditional name derives from Greek 'damazein' meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue,' and has ties to Saint Damian, a 3rd-century physician and martyr. While the standard spelling has been used since medieval times, Damyon represents a contemporary phonetic adaptation that maintains the traditional pronunciation while offering a distinctive appearance. This spelling variant has gained modest usage in recent decades as parents seek unique forms of classic names. The name carries connotations of healing and compassion due to its saintly association, while also maintaining a strong, masculine sound. Despite its alternative spelling, Damyon retains the rich historical and religious connections of its traditional counterpart.
- Arman
Origin:
Form of Herman or Armen, French, Armenian, Persian, Kazakh, TurkishMeaning:
"soldier; land of Armenia; wish, hope, purpose"Description:
One of those truly international names, with a similar feel to Roman, Arthur, and Artem, without the popularity, in the US at least. The name is in fact in the Top 50 in Armenia and Bosnia, while it also features in the UK Top 800.
- Oleg
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"holy"Description:
This common Russian name has a somewhat effete pencil-thin-moustached image here.