Sasha, largely male in Russia--and also spelled Sascha and Sacha--is an energetic name that has really taken off for girls here, chosen by Jerry Seinfeld (using the alternate Sascha spelling) and other celebs. The Barack Obamas use it as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. But in line with a trend toward softer-sounding boys' names like Asher and Joshua and thanks to Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen, Sasha also still has life as a boys' name too--it's popular in France for boys and girls almost equally.

The energetic Russian nickname name Sasha is being used increasingly on its own, though since the prominence of the First Daughter, more than 90% of the American babies named Sasha are girls. Sacha Baron Cohen bears one of the alternate spellings.

Could Simeon be the next Gideon? Parents seeking a less simple form of Simon might consider this biblical appellation that was chosen by Wynton Marsalis for his son. Simon is actually the Greek substitute for Simeon.

Early European import, well known in the 1940s via Norwegian skating movie star Sonja Henie, that has sailed back across the Atlantic, despite the rising popularity of other Russian names.

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

Popular Russian name, familiar here via author Svetlana Stalin, the dictator's daughter.

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.

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.

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.

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

Bold and spirited sounding Slavic short form of male and female names containing the element slava "glory".

Saint Savina of Milan gave comfort to prisoners. Her name is a variation of the Latin Sabina, which refers to the Sabine people. Not completely unknown in the US, there were 25 baby girls named Savina last year, and fewer than 100 called Sabina. Savina and Sabina will inevitably be confused with Sabrina, which is much more popular.

Largely male throughout Europe, this name--spelled with or without the c, is an energetic choice that has really taken off for girls here; it's been used for the daughters of Steven Spielberg, Jerry Seinfeld, and Vanessa Williams. The Barack Obamas use Sasha as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. Sasha Alexander, on the TV show Rizzoli & Isles, was born Suzana.

An alternative to Sasha, another common Russian nickname for Aleksander.

An epithet of Lord Vishnu in Hindu legend.

Sarra is a feminine name representing an ancient variant of Sarah, which means 'princess' or 'noblewoman' in Hebrew. This spelling appears in medieval documents and has periodically resurfaced as parents seek alternative spellings to traditional names. The double 'r' gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining the familiar sound. In some North African and Mediterranean cultures, Sarra has been used independently of its connection to Sarah. The name carries the dignified meaning of its origin while offering a slightly different cultural resonance. Though less common than Sarah, Sarra provides a simple yet uncommon alternative that maintains the classic name's elegance while standing apart in spelling.

The Russian and Bulgarian variant of Samuel.

Russian variation of Simon.

Slavka is traditionally a masculine name in Slavic cultures, particularly found in Czech, Slovak, and other Eastern European countries. It derives from the Slavic element 'slav' meaning 'glory' or 'fame,' a common component in many Slavic names like Miroslav and Vladislav. While Slavka can be used as a feminine name in some contexts (particularly as a diminutive), the masculine usage has deep historical roots. The name carries cultural significance in Slavic communities, connecting its bearers to their heritage and linguistic traditions. While uncommon outside Eastern Europe, Slavka has a distinctive sound that reflects its cultural origins. For those with Slavic ancestry, it can serve as a meaningful way to honor family heritage.