Pavel may be widespread in the former Soviet Union, but it has a somewhat impoverished image here.

Similar in sound to Sasha, Pasha is a Russian diminutive of the name Pavel, itself a form of Paul. Also used as a title for a high ranking officer in the (now historical) Ottoman military, and as the common name of a type of butterfly, it is a name well-suited for an Easter baby, due to its similarity to the word Pascha.

The Viktor form of this classic name is widely used throughout Europe and is rising in the US as well.

Alternative form of Basil that might suit the adventurous.

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.

Well used in Russia, this is a distinctive and undiscovered choice here. Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov is the fictional protagonist of Crime and Punishment by Feodor Dostoyevsky.

Stas is a masculine name primarily used in Eastern European countries, particularly Poland, Russia, and Ukraine. It functions as a diminutive of Stanislav (or Stanisław), a name composed of Slavic elements meaning 'glory' and 'establish' – essentially 'may you achieve glory' or 'one who achieves glory.' Despite its brevity, Stas carries the strength and historical significance of its longer form. In Eastern European communities, it's appreciated for being modern-sounding while maintaining traditional roots. Outside Slavic regions, Stas remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while still being fairly easy to pronounce. The name's concise nature makes it practical and distinctive in international settings, while its cultural background provides depth and heritage.

This common Russian name has a somewhat effete pencil-thin-moustached image here.

This form got noticed as the first name of long-reigning Russian president Brezhnev; other bearers include playwright and short-story writer Andreyev, Leonid the Magnificent,a Russian performance artist on America's Got Talent, and Leonid McGill, the protagonist of a Walter Mosley private eye series. All in all, though, Leonid is not the most likely to join the pride of lion-related names here.

In Europe, this name is mostly male, but here it's more fashionable for girls. It's a diminutive of Alexander.

A less-known member of the Sasha-Misha family, deriving from Yakov, the Russian form of Jacob.

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.

Vasily is one of many forms of the Greek Basil, all rare in the US.

Light and cheerful as its meaning but with plenty of substance, Ilari is the Finnish form of Hilarius and Hillary. Used as a masculine name in Finland, it is used, albeit quietly, as a unisex option elsewhere.

An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.

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.

Could be seen as an affectionate Old World take on Kole.

A sweet and gentle-sounding name with a sunny meaning, typically nicknamed Tolya in Russia. Depending on the country of origin, it can also be written as Anatoli or Anatoliy.

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.