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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Valya
Origin:
Diminutive of Valentina, Russian, Bulgarian, LatinMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
A confident sounding choice with plenty of energy, Valya is a Russian and Bulgarian diminutive of Valentina and Valentin. The name was used for a character in the 2025 HBO TV series Dune: Prophecy, set in the universe of Frank Herbert's novel of the same name, while real life bearers include singers Valya Kaneva and Valya Balkanska and social media star and influencer, Valya Karnaval.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Vasili
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"royal, kingly"Description:
Alternative form of Basil that might suit the adventurous.
- Vasily
Origin:
Russian form of Basil, GreekMeaning:
"royal"Description:
Vasily is one of many forms of the Greek Basil, all rare in the US.
- Vadim
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"attractive"Description:
Shorter, more palatable form of Vladimir, best known as the surname of French director Roger.
- Valka
Description:
Valka is a feminine name with Slavic origins, primarily found in Russian, Czech, and other Eastern European cultures. It often functions as a diminutive of Valentina, which derives from the Latin Valentinus meaning "strong, healthy, vigorous." In some Slavic languages, Valka can also relate to the word for "warrior" or "battle." The name carries an air of strength and resilience while maintaining a feminine quality through its ending. Valka gained some recognition in Western cultures following the character Valka in the animated film "How to Train Your Dragon 2." Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers an exotic alternative to more familiar names while remaining relatively straightforward to pronounce.
- Volya
Description:
Volya is a unisex name of Slavic origin, though more commonly used for males in Russia and Eastern European countries. It derives from the Slavic word for 'freedom' or 'will,' carrying powerful connotations of liberty, determination, and independence. The name gained significance during periods of political upheaval in Eastern Europe, particularly in revolutionary contexts where the concept of freedom was central. While uncommon internationally, Volya resonates with those of Slavic heritage or parents drawn to names with meaningful concepts. Its brevity and melodic sound make it accessible across cultures despite its specific etymology. The name's association with personal autonomy and liberation gives it a philosophical depth beyond its simple two-syllable structure.
- Valery
Origin:
Russian form of Valerius, RomanMeaning:
"strong, health"Description:
A spirited Russian name, derived from the Roman Valerius, this name is also transcribed as Valeriy. In an English speaking context, it has been used as a (feminine) alternative spelling to Valerie, however, the pronunciation and emphasis of the two names differ. Borne by Russian singer Valery Meladze and Russian composer, Valery Gergiev, it is also used for the titular character of Natasha Pulley's 2022 novel, The Half Life of Valery K.
- Varya
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"foreign"Description:
Short form of the Russian Varvara, a feistier version of Barbara.
- 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.
- Valerii
Description:
Valerii is a masculine name with ancient Roman origins, derived from the Latin name Valerius, meaning 'to be strong' or 'to be healthy.' It's the original Latin form of the more common Valery or Valerie. Particularly popular in Eastern European countries, especially Russia and Ukraine, Valerii maintains strong cultural connections to Slavic heritage. The name carries an air of classical dignity and strength, reflecting its etymological roots in wellness and vigor. While less common in Western countries, Valerii has maintained consistent usage throughout history in Eastern Europe. The double 'i' ending is characteristic of the traditional Russian spelling, distinguishing it from Western variants. The name conveys both historical depth and a certain aristocratic quality.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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