Russian Names that Start With V
- Vera
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"faith"Description:
Vera was the height of fashion in 1910, then was for a long time difficult to picture embroidered on a baby blanket. Now, though, it has come back into style along with other old-fashioned simple names such as Ada and Iris.
- Vladimir
Origin:
SlavicMeaning:
"great ruler, peaceful ruler, ruler of the world"Description:
Vladimir is a cultured and deep-rooted Slavic name associated in this country with cultural figures including piano virtuoso Vladimir Horowitz and the author of Lolita, Vladimir Nabokov.
- Valentin
Origin:
French, German, Russian, Czech, Scandinavian variation of ValentineMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
Romantic name used throughout Europe, though sure to lead to pronunciation problems here. Though it's never been too widely used in the US, it's quite popular in Switzerland, France, Austria, and Romania.
- Viktor
Origin:
Scandinavian, Russian, and Eastern European variation of VictorDescription:
The Viktor form of this classic name is widely used throughout Europe and is rising in the US as well.
- Vanya
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of JohnDescription:
This short form of Ivan just could join the other Russian nickname names coming into fashion, and it does have the Chekhov connection.
- Viera
Origin:
Slovak; Russian variation of VeraMeaning:
"truth"Description:
With the rise of both international names and those that start with the letter V, this sharp alternative to Vera may become more familiar in the English-speaking world.
- Vasili
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"royal, kingly"Description:
Alternative form of Basil that might suit the adventurous.
- Vlad
Origin:
Diminutive of Vladimir, SlavicMeaning:
"great ruler, peaceful ruler, ruler of the world"Description:
The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.
- Vasilisa
Origin:
Feminization of Vasili, Russian from GreekMeaning:
"royal, kingly"Description:
Vasilisa is the feminine form of Vasili, the Russian translation of Basil.
- Vitya
Description:
Vitya is a masculine Russian diminutive of Viktor, a name derived from the Latin 'victor' meaning 'conqueror' or 'winner'. In Russian culture, diminutives like Vitya express familiarity, affection, and closeness, used among family and friends rather than in formal situations. While Viktor is the official form that would appear on documents, Vitya represents the warm, personal version used in everyday life. The name carries positive associations with victory and success from its Latin roots. Outside of Russian-speaking regions, Vitya remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive cultural character. For Russian expatriate communities, using this diminutive helps maintain cultural connections while offering a friendly alternative to the more formal Viktor.
- Verina
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"true"Description:
More often spelled VERENA, this name is attached to a third century Swiss saint. But the "virtue" name VERITY, is more appealing and comes more directly to the point.
- Vadim
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"attractive"Description:
Shorter, more palatable form of Vladimir, best known as the surname of French director Roger.
- Valya
Description:
Valya is a feminine name of Slavic origin, commonly used as a diminutive of Valentina or Valeria in Russian, Ukrainian, and other Eastern European cultures. Derived from the Latin 'valens' meaning 'strong' or 'healthy,' Valya carries connotations of strength and vigor. This short form functions as both a nickname and standalone name, particularly in Slavic countries. Outside Eastern Europe, Valya remains relatively uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal while maintaining simple pronunciation. The name has a warm, approachable quality with its gentle ending sound. Notable bearers include Russian gymnast Valya Barsukova. The name's brevity and international usability make it appealing to parents seeking a name that works across cultural boundaries while maintaining distinctive Slavic roots.
- Venka
Description:
Venka is a masculine name with roots in various cultures. In Bulgarian, it's a diminutive form of names containing 'ven' which often relates to 'venets' meaning 'crown' or 'wreath'. In Indian cultures, particularly in southern regions, Venka can be a shortened form of longer names like Venkatesh or Venkataramana, which refer to Lord Vishnu. The name carries connotations of divinity and strength in these contexts. Though relatively uncommon internationally, Venka has maintained a steady presence in its regions of origin. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a distinctive quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce across many languages.
- Viktoria
Description:
Viktoria is the Eastern European and Germanic spelling of Victoria, a name derived from Latin meaning 'victory.' This variation maintains the powerful meaning while giving it a distinctive continental European flair. Particularly popular in countries like Russia, Germany, Hungary, and across Eastern Europe, Viktoria carries a sense of strength and triumph. The 'k' spelling gives the name a sharp, dynamic quality that differs slightly from the softer 'c' version. While less common in English-speaking countries, global connections have increased its usage worldwide. Viktoria combines classical heritage with cross-cultural appeal, making it both timeless and contemporary for parents seeking a name with established roots but a distinctive character.
- Vas
Description:
Vas is a concise masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Hungarian, it literally means 'iron', symbolizing strength and durability. It can also be found as a shortened form of various Slavic names like Vasiliy or Vasilios, which derive from the Greek 'Basilios' meaning 'royal' or 'kingly'. In some Indian communities, particularly in southern India, Vas appears as a surname or shortened form of Christian names. The name is quite uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its brevity makes it practical and memorable, while its cross-cultural presence gives it versatility. Vas projects an image of strength and resilience, appealing to parents seeking a short, powerful name with international connections.
- Varya
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"foreign"Description:
Short form of the Russian Varvara, a feistier version of Barbara.
- Vlas
Description:
Vlas is a masculine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Russia and Eastern European countries. It derives from the Greek name 'Blasios' (Blaise), which passed into Slavic languages. Traditionally, Vlas was associated with Saint Blaise, a physician and bishop who became a Christian martyr. The name has maintained consistent though moderate usage in Russia and parts of Eastern Europe. Vlas has a distinctive brevity and strength, with the uncommon initial 'V' combined with the crisp final 's' creating a name that sounds both traditional and contemporary. Outside Slavic regions, the name remains quite rare, offering an authentic cultural option for those with Eastern European heritage or those seeking a concise masculine name with historical depth.
- Venera
Description:
Venera is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. In several Slavic languages, particularly Russian, Bulgarian, and Serbian, Venera is the direct name for both the goddess and the planet Venus. The name carries strong associations with feminine beauty, love, and celestial brilliance. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Venera enjoys moderate popularity in Eastern European nations and parts of Central Asia. Its classical origins give it an elegant, timeless quality, while its relative rarity in Western contexts makes it distinctive. The name has a melodic flow with its three syllables and soft consonants. Venera appeals to parents drawn to names with classical mythology connections or those seeking to honor Slavic heritage while choosing a name that translates well across cultural boundaries.
- Valery
Description:
Valery is a masculine name with Latin and Slavic roots, derived from the Roman family name Valerius, meaning 'strong' or 'healthy.' While Valery is predominantly used for boys in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, it's often seen as a feminine name in Western contexts, creating an interesting cross-cultural dimension. The masculine usage of Valery has a distinguished history, with notable bearers including Russian composer Valery Gergiev and poet Valery Bryusov. The name has a refined, artistic quality with its flowing sounds and cultural associations. Though uncommon for males in English-speaking countries, it carries a sophisticated European flair that sets it apart from more common choices. Valery combines strength in meaning with elegance in sound.