Russian Names that Start With S

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Shura is a unisex Russian nickname for Aleksandr or Aleksandra, themselves forms of Alexander. Less known in the English-speaking world than Sasha, it's also more assertive — probably because of that "sure" sound.

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

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.

Sima is a feminine name with multicultural origins, appearing in Hebrew, Arabic, Indian, and Slavic naming traditions. In Hebrew, it means 'treasure' or 'valued,' while in Sanskrit it can mean 'boundary' or 'limit.' In Slavic languages, it may be related to the word for 'winter.' This short, melodic two-syllable name carries a gentle elegance and simplicity that transcends cultural boundaries. Sima has maintained consistent though modest usage across different regions, particularly in Jewish, Indian, and Eastern European communities. Its cross-cultural presence and positive meanings make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with both depth and accessibility.

Stesha is a feminine name that functions primarily as a diminutive of Stephanie or Anastasia. With Slavic origins, particularly in Russian naming traditions, Stesha represents an affectionate, familiar form used among family and close friends. The name Stephanie derives from the Greek 'stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland,' while Anastasia comes from Greek elements meaning 'resurrection.' Stesha has a warm, approachable quality with its soft ending sound. Though uncommon as a formal given name in Western countries, it carries a distinctive charm that may appeal to parents seeking something both familiar and unique. The name's brevity and melodic quality make it accessible across cultural boundaries, despite its specific Eastern European roots.

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

The Russian and Bulgarian variant of Samuel.

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.