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Russian Names for Boys

  1. Serge

    • Origin:

      French variation of ancient Roman family name Sergius

    • Meaning:

      "servant"

    • Description:

      Old saints' and popes' name that went to France in the 1920s with the Russian Ballets Russes; in its Russian form, Sergei, it retains an artistic, almost effete air.
  2. 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.

  3. Rolan

    • Description:

      Rolan is a masculine name with multiple possible origins, including as a variation of Roland, which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'fame' and 'land,' referring to someone famous throughout the land. It may also have Slavic roots in some contexts. This concise, strong-sounding name carries heroic associations through the legendary medieval knight Roland, featured prominently in French epic literature. While never reaching mainstream popularity in English-speaking countries, Rolan has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its straightforward pronunciation, masculine sound, and cross-cultural adaptability. The name projects qualities of bravery, strength, and adventure while offering a subtle alternative to the more common Roland variation.
  4. Vanya

    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of John

    • Description:

      This short form of Ivan just could join the other Russian nickname names coming into fashion, and it does have the Chekhov connection.
  5. 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.
  6. Makari

    • Origin:

      Russian, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "blessed, happy; I wish"

    • Description:

      To those unfamiliar with it, Makari might have the sound, feel, and look of a modern inventions, similar to Amari, Jakari, or Makai. It is however a Russian name, derived from the Greek Makarios. Borne by two 14th-century Orthodox Russian saints, Makari can also be transcribed as Makariy or Makary.
  7. Yuri

    • Origin:

      Russian variation of George

    • Description:

      Common Russian name familiarized here via cosmonaut Yury Gagarin and a character in Dr. Zhivago, but we don't see it ever gaining permanent resident status.
  8. Pavel

    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Paul

    • Meaning:

      "small"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Venedikt, variation of Benedict

    • Description:

      Vanya is much more familiar.
  10. Vasili

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "royal, kingly"

    • Description:

      Alternative form of Basil that might suit the adventurous.
  11. Anatoly

    • Origin:

      Russian, from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "from the east, rising sun"

    • Description:

      A sweet and gentle-sounding Russian name with a sunny meaning, typically nicknamed Tolya in Russia. It can also be written as Anatoli or Anatoliy.
  12. 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.

  13. Fyodor

    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Theodore

    • Meaning:

      "God's gift"

    • Description:

      This variation of Theodore is familiar here mostly via the great Russian novelist Dostoyevsky. It was also the name of three early tsars of Russia.
  14. Ilias

    • Origin:

      Greek, from Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "Yahweh is God"

    • Description:

      The Greek form of Elijah.
  15. Sergei

    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Sergius

    • Description:

      Common Russian name of one of that country's most beloved saints, known for his kindness and gentility.
  16. Arman

    • Origin:

      Form of Herman or Armen, French, Armenian, Persian, Kazakh, Turkish

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  17. Sergey

    • Description:

      Sergey is a masculine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian cultures. It derives from the Latin name Sergius, which possibly meant 'servant' or originated from an ancient Roman family name. The name has been carried by numerous saints, including Saint Sergius of Radonezh, a revered figure in Russian Orthodox tradition. Sergey gained international recognition through notable figures like Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, and various accomplished athletes, scientists, and artists. While maintaining its traditional popularity in Eastern European countries, it has become increasingly familiar worldwide. The name combines strength and sophistication with a distinctive Slavic character. Pronunciation varies slightly across cultures, typically as 'SEHR-gay' or 'ser-GAY', adding to its multicultural appeal.
  18. Vadim

    • Origin:

      Russian

    • Meaning:

      "attractive"

    • Description:

      Shorter, more palatable form of Vladimir, best known as the surname of French director Roger.
  19. Efrem

    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Ephraim

    • Description:

      Phonetic spelling brought to light by actor Efrem Zimbalist Jr.
  20. Ilari

    • Origin:

      Finnish form of Hilarius, Roman, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "cheerful"

    • Description:

      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.