Russian Names for Boys

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

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

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.

Worldly, artistic and attractive Slavic version of the name of the Greek god of fertility and farming.

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.

The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.

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

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

Melor is the name of a Breton saint who in legend was also a prince, suggesting he was the son of a Cornish king (Mylor is the Cornish variation of the name). Melor was said to have a foot and hand made of silver,

For jet-setting parents or those with many cultural backgrounds, a name that is workable across various languages is often a priority. Natan is a great option, as it is a familiar name in many European countries. It is currently most popular in Poland but seeing significant use in Israel as well.

Musical association with Igor Stravinsky, but also Dr. Frankenstein's right-hand man.

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

Feels as strong and international as Roman, with none of the popularity. Arman might be a form of the German Herman or of the Persian/Kazakh/Armenian Armen or Arman, meaning wish or hope.

Redolent of Khrushchev and la femme.

Unisex name in Israel, ideal for a Hanukkah baby.

Your little Pasha will rule the roost. In Russia, Pasha is traditionally given to a boy born on Good Friday.