Russian Names that Start With K

  1. Kira
    • Origin:

      Russian feminine variation of Cyrus
    • Meaning:

      "throne"
    • Description:

      Though such cognates of Kira as Keira, Kyra, and Ciara are increasingly popular throughout Europe and in the U.S., this Cyrus relative has a different root. As with all the many variations of this appealing name, there is often confusion around spelling and pronunciation -- does the first syllable rhyme with ear or eye?
  2. Karina
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian, German, Polish, and Russian variation of Carina
    • Description:

      This sweet and loving name, favored in recent years by a mix of Hispanic-American parents and Bob Dylan fans, was chosen for her daughter by TV actress Melina Kanakaredes.
  3. Konstantin
    • Origin:

      Slavic; Estonian; Finnish; Hungarian; German, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "steadfast"
    • Description:

      This sleek form of Constantine is traditional in many European countries, and most popular in German-speaking nations and Russia.
  4. Katerina
    • Origin:

      Macedonian, Czech, Russian, Bulgarian, and Greek form of Katherine
    • Description:

      Katerina and its near-identical twin Katarina have a pleasingly lilting European sound, though for some Americans they may be uncomfortably close to Katrina, which will be linked for a long time to the hurricane that devastated New Orleans.
  5. Kima
    • Description:

      Kima is a masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Swahili, it means "that which is on the hill" or can relate to "one who moves mountains." Some sources connect it to Japanese origins meaning "valuable." In Native American traditions, particularly among certain tribes, Kima can refer to "butterfly." The name has remained relatively uncommon in Western countries, maintaining its distinctive appeal. Its short, melodic sound with balanced consonants and vowels makes it easy to pronounce across languages. While not appearing on most popularity charts, Kima has seen occasional usage as both a given name and nickname, appreciated for its simplicity and cross-cultural resonance.
  6. Katia
    • Origin:

      Russian diminutive of Ekaterina
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      One of the warm and earthy Russian nickname names now coming into style. Denzel Washington is the father of a Katia.
  7. Ksenia
    • Description:

      Ksenia is a feminine name with deep Slavic roots, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. Derived from the Greek word "xenos" meaning "stranger" or "hospitality," it carries connotations of welcoming and generosity. Traditionally spelled "Xenia" in Western countries, the Slavic spelling with 'K' maintains its authentic cultural connection. The name gained wider recognition through figures like Russian Saint Ksenia of Petersburg and various contemporary celebrities. With its exotic sound and relatively uncommon usage in English-speaking countries, Ksenia offers a distinctive choice that's still accessible in pronunciation. The name combines strength and femininity with its crisp 'k' sound and melodic ending.
  8. Kenya
    • Origin:

      Place name, Kikuyu
    • Meaning:

      "mountain of white"
    • Description:

      A bold and evocative African place name. The country of Kenya gets its name from Mount Kenya, referred to it as "Kirinyaga" or "Kerenyaga" by the local Kikuyu people, meaning "mountain of whiteness" due to its snow-capped peak.
  9. Karine
    • Origin:

      French variation of Karen, form of Katherine
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      The once super-popular Karen has gotten a bad name of late. Is Karine different enough to survive? Perhaps, though it may take a generation or two for a real comeback.
  10. Klavdii
    • Description:

      Klavdii is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Latin name Claudius, which means 'lame' or 'limping' and was the name of a prominent Roman family. In Russian usage, Klavdii (Клавдий) represents the traditional Russified form of the classical name. It carries an air of historical significance and intellectual gravity, having been borne by Roman emperors and saints. While the name has ancient roots, it's relatively uncommon in modern usage, even within Russia. Klavdii offers a distinctive alternative for parents seeking a name with classical heritage and a distinctive Slavic pronunciation. The name's formal quality is often softened in everyday use through diminutives like Klava.
  11. Kolya
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Nikolai
    • Description:

      Could be seen as an affectionate Old World take on Kole.
  12. Kesar
    • Description:

      Kesar is a masculine name with diverse cultural roots. In Sanskrit, Kesar means 'saffron,' the precious golden-red spice highly valued throughout history. In Persian tradition, it can be related to 'Kaiser' or 'Emperor,' suggesting nobility and leadership. The name also appears in Indian culture, where it's associated with saffron's sacred properties and regal qualities. Kesar remains relatively uncommon in Western countries but has moderate usage in India and parts of the Middle East. Parents might choose this name for its exotic sound, distinctive spelling, and rich cultural associations with both nature and royalty. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a memorable quality while its spice connection evokes warmth and rarity.

  13. 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.

  14. Kostya
    • Description:

      Kostya is traditionally a masculine Russian diminutive of Konstantin (Constantine), though it appears here as feminine. In Russian culture, Kostya is a familiar, affectionate nickname rather than a formal given name. The root name Constantine comes from Latin 'constantem' meaning 'constant' or 'steadfast.' When used for girls, Kostya represents a modern trend of adopting traditionally male names for females. It has a distinctive Slavic character with an appealing, accessible sound to Western ears. The name carries cultural richness and might be chosen by parents with Russian heritage or those drawn to Eastern European naming traditions. As a given name in the West, Kostya remains quite uncommon, offering a unique identity.
  15. Kirill
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Cyril, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lordly"
    • Description:

      Strong and attractive form of Cyril.
  16. Kesha
    • Description:

      Kesha as a masculine name is an uncommon gender usage of what is typically a feminine name in Western countries. The name has multiple origins: it can be a variation of Keisha (African-American origin meaning 'favorite' or 'beloved'), a short form of Lakisha, or derived from the Russian diminutive of Innokenty. As a male name, it's particularly rare and may reflect cultural variations or family traditions. The name gained some recognition through the American singer Kesha (born Kesha Rose Sebert), though her usage is feminine. For males, the name carries a unique, gender-nonconforming quality that makes it distinctive. Pronunciation typically follows 'KEE-shah' or 'KAY-shah' patterns.
  17. Kostenka
    • Description:

      Kostenka is a rare feminine name likely of Slavic origin. It may be derived from East Slavic languages, possibly as a diminutive form of names containing the root 'kost' (meaning 'bone' or 'firm'). Alternatively, it could reference Kostenki, a significant archaeological site in Russia. The name has a rhythmic quality with its three syllables and feminine 'a' ending typical of many Slavic female names. Very uncommon outside of Eastern European regions, Kostenka carries an exotic quality for Western audiences. The name blends strength and softness in its sound, with historical connections that give it depth despite its rarity.
  18. Konstantin
    • Description:

      Konstantin as a feminine name represents an unusual gender crossover, as it is traditionally a masculine name of Latin origin meaning 'constant' or 'steadfast.' Derived from the name Constantine, it has deep historical roots connected to Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. While predominantly used for boys in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Ukraine, and Serbia, its use as a feminine name is extremely rare. The gender-neutral trend may account for some parents choosing it for daughters, appreciating its strong meaning and rich historical connections. The feminine usage might be influenced by the possibility of using 'Konstance' or 'Konstantine' as feminine variants, with Konstantin serving as an unconventional alternative with a distinctive Slavic flair.
  19. Karlen
    • Description:

      Karlen is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. It can be found as an Armenian name meaning 'manly' or 'virile,' a Swedish variant of Karl (meaning 'free man'), or a variation of the Scandinavian name Carlen. The name has a strong, straightforward sound that translates well across different languages. Despite its international presence, Karlen remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce. It carries the strength associated with its various meanings while maintaining a contemporary feel. The name has never ranked among top naming trends but maintains steady usage within certain cultural communities.
  20. Kostya
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Konstantin
    • Description:

      An accessible Russian nickname...but could "cost ya".