Russian Names that Start With S
- Sasha
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Greek AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
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.
- Sasha
Origin:
Russian diminutive of AlexanderMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
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.
- Sonia
Origin:
Russian and Scandinavian variation of SophiaMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
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.
- Simeon
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"he [God] has heard"Description:
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.
- Serge
Origin:
French variation of ancient Roman family name SergiusMeaning:
"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.
- Sascha
Origin:
German variation of SashaMeaning:
"defending warrior"Description:
In Europe, this name is mostly male, but here it's more fashionable for girls. It's a diminutive of Alexander.
- Savina
Origin:
Italian variation of SabinaDescription:
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.
- Svetlana
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"star"Description:
Popular Russian name, familiar here via author Svetlana Stalin, the dictator's daughter.
- Stasya
Description:
Stasya is a feminine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish cultures. It functions as a diminutive of Anastasia, which derives from the Greek word 'anastasis' meaning 'resurrection' or 'rebirth.' Stasya offers a friendly, accessible alternative to the more formal Anastasia while maintaining its elegant heritage. The name carries connotations of renewal and vitality embedded in its historical roots. Though less common in Western countries, Stasya has maintained steady usage in Eastern European communities. Its melodic sound and distinctive character make it attractive to parents seeking a name with Slavic roots that remains relatively easy to pronounce in English. The name blends traditional heritage with a modern, approachable feel.
- Sergei
Origin:
Russian variation of SergiusDescription:
Common Russian name of one of that country's most beloved saints, known for his kindness and gentility.
- Sascha
Origin:
German variation of SashaMeaning:
"defending warrior"Description:
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.
- Samuil
Origin:
Russian; Bulgarian, from HebrewMeaning:
"told by God"Description:
The Russian and Bulgarian variant of Samuel.
- Stas
Description:
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.
- Seraphima
Description:
Seraphima is a feminine name with celestial origins, derived from 'seraphim'—the highest order of angels in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. The name literally connects to the Hebrew word 'seraph,' meaning 'to burn,' reflecting the fiery, radiant nature attributed to these heavenly beings. This elaborate form expands on the more common Serafina or Seraphina, adding an exotic, mystical quality. While rare in Western countries, variations of this name have historical usage in Eastern Orthodox countries, particularly Russia, where it appears as Serafima. The name carries powerful connotations of spiritual purity, divine protection, and ethereal beauty. Its uncommon nature appeals to parents seeking a name with profound religious significance and melodic elegance.
- Slavik
Description:
Slavik is a masculine name with Slavic origins, particularly common in Czech, Slovak, Russian, and Ukrainian communities. It derives from "slava," meaning "glory" or "fame" in Slavic languages. The name can function as both a standalone name and as a diminutive form of names containing the "slav" element, such as Miroslav, Vladislav, or Stanislav. Slavik carries strong cultural associations with Slavic heritage and identity. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, it remains relatively common in Eastern Europe. The name's straightforward pronunciation and connection to concepts of honor and glory make it meaningful across various Slavic cultures. In diaspora communities, the name often serves as a way to maintain cultural connections.
- Sergie
Description:
Sergie is a variant spelling of Sergei, which is a Russian form of the Latin name Sergius. The name has ancient Roman roots and was borne by several early Christian saints. Sergie conveys strength and dignity, derived from the Latin 'servus' meaning 'servant' or possibly from an ancient Roman clan name. While less common than the standard Sergei or Sergio forms, Sergie maintains the distinguished quality of its origin. The name gained some international recognition through notable Russians including composer Sergei Rachmaninoff and ballet impresario Sergei Diaghilev. Sergie offers a slightly unique spelling variation for parents seeking a name with Eastern European heritage and historical depth.
- 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.
- Sanya
Origin:
Diminutive of Aleksandr, Russian from GreekDescription:
An alternative to Sasha, another common Russian nickname for Aleksander.
- 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.
- Samvel
Description:
Samvel is a masculine name of Armenian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Samuel, meaning "heard by God" or "name of God." In Armenian culture, Samvel has been widely used for centuries and remains a popular choice that honors cultural heritage. The name carries strong biblical connections through its relation to Samuel, an important prophet in the Old Testament. Samvel has a dignified quality with its distinctive sound that sets it apart from the more commonly used Samuel in Western countries. While primarily used within Armenian communities worldwide, it occasionally appears in other Eastern European and Middle Eastern cultures. The name projects strength and wisdom while maintaining a melodic quality in pronunciation.