Russian Names for Boys

  1. Manuil
    • Description:

      Manuil is a masculine name of Greek and Russian origin, derived from Emmanuel, meaning 'God is with us.' This variation is particularly common in Eastern European countries, especially in Russia, Bulgaria, and other Slavic nations. Historically, the name has connections to Orthodox Christianity and appears in religious contexts. Manuil offers a distinctive international alternative to the more common Manuel or Emanuel in Western countries. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions, it maintains popularity in Eastern Europe. The name carries dignified connotations with its biblical roots and historical usage among nobility and clergy. Its cross-cultural nature makes it accessible in multiple languages while maintaining its unique character.
  2. Tishka
    • Description:

      Tishka is a masculine name with Russian or Slavic origins, typically functioning as a diminutive form of Tikhon or similar names. In Russian naming traditions, diminutives express familiarity and affection. The root name Tikhon derives from the Greek word 'tychē' meaning 'luck' or 'fortune.' Tishka maintains a warm, approachable quality while carrying cultural significance in Slavic communities. Outside these regions, the name is quite rare, giving it a distinctive quality. The soft sound and ending with 'a' might cause some gender confusion in Western countries, though it's traditionally used for males in its culture of origin. The name offers a unique option for parents seeking a name with Eastern European character and a friendly, accessible sound.

  3. Tima
    • Description:

      Tima is a masculine name with diverse origins across different cultures. In Slavic countries, particularly Russia, it often serves as a diminutive of Timofey (the Russian equivalent of Timothy). In Arabic-speaking regions, Tima can be derived from "tayyim," relating to completion or perfection. The name also appears in some African cultures with varied meanings. Tima has a simple, melodic sound with its two syllables and balanced structure. While not widely common in Western countries, it has gained some popularity for its international appeal and easy pronunciation across languages. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel while its cross-cultural presence provides a sense of global connection, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name for their son.

  4. Serhiy
    • Description:

      Serhiy is a masculine name of Ukrainian origin, serving as the Ukrainian form of Sergius or Sergey. The name derives from the Latin 'Sergius,' which was a Roman family name possibly of Etruscan origins. Historically, the name gained significance through St. Sergius, a 4th-century Roman officer who became a martyr. Serhiy is widely used in Ukraine and has become more recognized internationally with increased global awareness of Ukrainian culture. The transliteration sometimes appears as Serhii or Sergiy, depending on how the Cyrillic letters are converted to the Latin alphabet. Though uncommon in Western countries, growing diaspora communities have brought this name to wider attention. Serhiy carries cultural pride for Ukrainian families and represents a strong masculine tradition with deep historical roots in Eastern European naming patterns.
  5. Georgi
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of George
    • Description:

      Spelling it with a double I -- GEORGII -- makes it ultradistinctive, and less a generic Georgie.
  6. Grigorii
    • Description:

      Grigorii is the Russian form of Gregory, derived from the Greek name Gregorios, meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant.' This name has deep historical roots in Eastern Europe and Russia, where it has been used for centuries, often associated with religious figures in the Orthodox Church. Grigorii offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Gregory or Grigori variants. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, it maintains steady popularity in Russia and other Slavic nations. The name conveys strength and wisdom, and its traditional character appeals to parents looking for a name with historical significance and cultural authenticity.
  7. Yeremy
    • Description:

      Yeremy is a masculine name that represents a variation of Jeremy, which derives from the Hebrew name Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), meaning "appointed by God" or "God will uplift." This spelling variation appears to incorporate elements of how the name is pronounced in some Spanish or Eastern European contexts, where the initial "J" might be pronounced as a "Y" sound. Yeremy offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Jeremy while maintaining the same essential pronunciation. The name is relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality while still being recognizable. Parents might choose this spelling to honor multicultural heritage or simply to provide their child with a more unique version of a classic biblical name.

  8. Vassily
    • Description:

      Vassily is a masculine name of Russian origin, representing a Slavic form of Basil, which comes from the Greek name Basileios meaning 'royal' or 'kingly.' This distinguished name has deep historical roots in Eastern European and Russian culture, particularly associated with Russian aristocracy and Orthodox tradition. Notable bearers include the famous painter Vassily Kandinsky and numerous Russian historical figures. The name has varying spellings including Vasily, Vasiliy, and Vasili. While maintaining strong popularity in Russia and Eastern European countries, Vassily remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, giving it an exotic, sophisticated quality. The name carries connotations of strength, dignity, and cultural richness.
  9. Yackim
    • Description:

      Yackim is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, considered a variant of Joachim or Yakim. In Hebrew, it derives from 'Yehoiakim' meaning 'God will establish' or 'God will raise up.' The name appears in biblical contexts, notably in genealogies and as a variation of Joachim, who in Christian tradition was the father of the Virgin Mary. Despite its ancient roots, Yackim remains quite rare in contemporary usage. The name has a distinctive sound that combines traditional biblical heritage with an uncommon spelling that sets it apart from more familiar variants. Parents might choose Yackim for its religious significance, unique character, and meaningful etymology suggesting divine support and establishment. Its rarity ensures individuality while still maintaining recognizable biblical connections.

  10. Sergeyka
    • Description:

      Sergeyka is a masculine diminutive form of Sergei (or Sergey), which is the Russian equivalent of Sergius. The name has Slavic origins, particularly Russian, where diminutive suffixes like '-ka' are added to express affection or endearment. The root name Sergei derives from the Latin 'Sergius,' which may have meant 'servant' or 'guardian.' Sergeyka would typically be used as a nickname in Russian-speaking cultures rather than as a formal given name. It carries the warmth and familiarity of pet names used among family and close friends. The name is not common in Western countries but maintains cultural significance in Eastern European communities.
  11. Fedar
    • Description:

      Fedar is an uncommon masculine name with Slavic origins, most likely a variant of Fedor or Fyodor, which are Eastern European forms of Theodore. The name derives from Greek elements meaning 'gift' and 'god,' essentially translating to 'gift of God.' Fedar maintains the strong, dignified quality of its more common variants while offering a distinctive spelling. This name is rarely encountered in English-speaking countries but has historical usage in Eastern European regions, particularly among those with Russian, Belarusian, or Ukrainian heritage. Fedar's simplicity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its rarity. The name carries an air of old-world charm combined with a certain rugged strength that makes it an interesting choice for parents seeking something unusual yet historically grounded.

  12. 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.

  13. Moisey
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Moses
    • Meaning:

      "delivered from the water"
    • Description:

      Russian translation of Moses.
  14. Efrem
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Ephraim
    • Description:

      Phonetic spelling brought to light by actor Efrem Zimbalist Jr.
  15. Oleg
    • Origin:

      Russian
    • Meaning:

      "holy"
    • Description:

      This common Russian name has a somewhat effete pencil-thin-moustached image here.
  16. Tyoma
    • Description:

      Tyoma is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Artyom (Russian) or Artemiy (Артемий). Artyom itself derives from Artemios, relating to the Greek goddess Artemis, associated with hunting, wilderness, and protection. As a diminutive, Tyoma carries the warmth and affection typical of Russian nickname traditions. While common in Russian-speaking countries, Tyoma remains rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic yet accessible quality. The name has a melodic flow with its soft consonants and open ending. For families with Russian heritage or those seeking a distinctive name with authentic cultural roots, Tyoma offers an appealing option that combines traditional origins with a contemporary sound. Its brevity makes it practical while still feeling complete and distinctive.
  17. Avreliy
    • Description:

      Avreliy is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Latin name Aurelius, which means 'golden' or 'golden one.' This name carries the weight of classical history, as Aurelius was a prominent Roman family name and was borne by Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the renowned philosopher and Stoic. The Russian adaptation maintains the prestigious connotations while adding a distinctive Slavic character through its spelling. While uncommon even in Russia and Russian-speaking regions, Avreliy offers a unique option for parents seeking a name with both historical depth and cultural specificity. Its unusual nature in international contexts makes it particularly distinctive while still being pronounceable in many languages.
  18. 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.
  19. Yefrem
    • Description:

      Yefrem is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Ephraim, which means 'fruitful' or 'fertile.' In the Bible, Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Yefrem represents the Russian Orthodox variation of this ancient name, featuring the characteristic Slavic adaptation of biblical names. While common in Russia and some Eastern European countries, Yefrem remains quite rare in Western nations. The name carries a sense of historical depth and religious significance. Its distinctive sound, with the soft 'Y' beginning and the rolled 'r,' gives Yefrem an exotic quality to English speakers while maintaining its cultural authenticity.
  20. Ioann
    • Description:

      Ioann is a masculine name with deep historical roots, representing a variant of John that's primarily used in Eastern European cultures, particularly in Russian, Ukrainian, and Romanian traditions. Derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' Ioann maintains the spiritual significance of its origin while offering a distinctive pronunciation. In Orthodox Christian countries, the name gained popularity through various saints and religious figures. While uncommon in Western countries, Ioann provides a unique alternative to the ubiquitous John, carrying both historical gravitas and cultural specificity that appeals to parents seeking a name with traditional significance but uncommon usage.