Russian Names that Start With Y
- Yuna
Origin:
Japanese, Breton, Korean, Chinese, DutchMeaning:
"superiority, gentleness, citrus fruit; lamb; willow, abundant, child, happy + to reach, to hold; jade + elegant, beautiful; June"Description:
An attractive, widely appealing, multicultural option, Yuna has its roots in Japanese, Breton, Korean, Chinese. KPOP singer Yuna may be attracting some attention to her name, as might influencer Yunabugs who shares her life with her eight dachshunds on Instagram. Also used in the game franchise Final Fantasy, it is a popular choice in France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
- Yuri
Origin:
Russian variation of GeorgeDescription:
Common Russian name familiarized here via cosmonaut Yury Gagarin and a character in Dr. Zhivago, but we don't see it ever gaining permanent resident status.
- Yasha
Origin:
RussianMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
A less-known member of the Sasha-Misha family, deriving from Yakov, the Russian form of Jacob.
- Yelena
Origin:
Russian variation of HelenMeaning:
"bright, shining one"Description:
One of many international versions of this classic.
- Yeva
Origin:
Russian and Armenian variation of Eve, HebrewMeaning:
"life"Description:
A Top 10 name in Moscow. In Russian, the emphasis is put on the first syllable.
- Yekaterina
Origin:
Russian variation of KatherineDescription:
An intriguing, elaborate form of Catherine, although the similar Ekaterina may be more usable in Anglophone countries.
- Yevgeny
Origin:
Russian variation of EugeneDescription:
See EUGENE.
- Yula
Description:
Yula is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic countries, it may be a diminutive form of Yulia or Julia, meaning 'youthful' or 'downy-bearded.' In Native American traditions, particularly among the Choctaw, Yula can mean 'spirit who travels.' The name also appears in some African cultures. Yula has a melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds, making it both distinctive and easy to pronounce across different languages. While not widely common in Western countries, it has seen occasional use throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name's simplicity and cross-cultural appeal give it a unique charm while remaining accessible and memorable.
- Yevgeniya
Origin:
Russian form of EugeniaMeaning:
"well born"Description:
In an English-speaking country, stick with Eugenia.
- Yvor
Description:
Yvor is a masculine name with Norse and Celtic roots, believed to be a variant of names like Ivar, Ivor, or Ivo. The name carries meanings related to 'archer', 'bow warrior', or 'yew wood' (which was traditionally used to make bows). This uncommon name has an air of strength and ancient heritage, evoking images of Norse and Celtic warriors. Yvor has never been widely popular but maintains a steady presence among families interested in names with historical depth and unique character. The distinctive spelling with 'Y' gives the name a slightly more exotic feel compared to the more traditional Ivor. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds contribute to its masculine impression.
- Yaryna
Description:
Yaryna is a feminine Ukrainian name with ancient Slavic roots. It derives from the name of the spring sun god in Slavic mythology, 'Yarilo' or 'Yarylo,' associated with fertility, youth, and the renewal of spring. The name essentially means 'bright,' 'spring-like,' or 'full of energy.' Yaryna remains relatively uncommon outside Eastern European countries, particularly Ukraine, where it holds cultural significance. The name carries connotations of vitality, warmth, and natural beauty. With growing interest in unique international names and greater awareness of Ukrainian culture, Yaryna may gradually gain recognition globally. It offers a melodic quality with its flowing syllables while maintaining a strong cultural heritage.
- Yevgenia
Description:
Yevgenia is a feminine name of Russian and Slavic origin, representing the female form of Eugene. Derived from the Greek "eugenes" meaning "well-born" or "noble," it carries connotations of dignity and aristocratic heritage. Traditionally popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, Yevgenia remains relatively rare in English-speaking nations. The name is sometimes anglicized to Eugenia. Notable bearers include Russian poet Yevgenia Ginzburg and Olympic gymnast Yevgenia Kanayeva. While maintaining a distinctly Slavic character, Yevgenia offers a sophisticated choice for parents seeking a name with international flair and classical roots, appealing to those with cultural connections to Eastern Europe or appreciation for names with historical depth.
- Yefrem
Description:
Yefrem is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Ephraim, which means 'fruitful' or 'fertile.' In the Bible, Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Yefrem represents the Russian Orthodox variation of this ancient name, featuring the characteristic Slavic adaptation of biblical names. While common in Russia and some Eastern European countries, Yefrem remains quite rare in Western nations. The name carries a sense of historical depth and religious significance. Its distinctive sound, with the soft 'Y' beginning and the rolled 'r,' gives Yefrem an exotic quality to English speakers while maintaining its cultural authenticity.
- Yelisei
Description:
Yelisei is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the biblical name Elisha, which means 'God is my salvation' or 'God is help' in Hebrew. In Russian tradition, it's spelled Елисей (Yelisey), with Yelisei being a transliteration variant. The name carries deep historical and religious significance, being connected to the prophet Elisha in the Old Testament. While common in Russia and other Slavic countries, Yelisei remains rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic quality outside its cultural origins. The name's four syllables create a melodic, flowing sound. Yelisei combines spiritual heritage with a distinctive sound that feels both traditional in its Slavic context and refreshingly unusual elsewhere.
- Yerik
Description:
Yerik is a masculine name with Kazakh and Russian origins. In Kazakh culture, it derives from the word meaning 'freedom' or 'liberty,' making it a powerful name symbolizing independence and an unbounded spirit. In Russian contexts, it may be considered a diminutive form of names like Erich or Erik, which have Germanic roots meaning 'ever' or 'eternal' combined with 'ruler' or 'king.' Yerik has a strong, distinctive sound while remaining relatively short and easy to pronounce. Though not widely used in Western countries, the name has moderate popularity in Central Asian nations, particularly Kazakhstan and among Russian-speaking communities. Its unique character and positive connotations make it an increasingly appealing choice for parents seeking a name with cultural depth.
- Yarina
Description:
Yarina is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly used in Ukrainian, Russian, and other Eastern European cultures. In Ukrainian, it derives from 'yar,' meaning 'spring' or 'vigor,' symbolizing youth, freshness, and the renewal of springtime. It's also connected to Yarilo or Yaryla, a Slavic deity of fertility and springtime. In some interpretations, the name relates to 'yariy,' meaning 'bright' or 'ardent.' Yarina carries a poetic quality, evoking images of blossoming nature and new beginnings. While not widely used in Western countries, it has maintained consistent usage in Eastern Europe. The name offers a beautiful cultural connection for families with Slavic heritage or those seeking a distinctive yet melodic name with nature-based symbolism and a gentle, feminine sound.
- Yakov
Origin:
Russian variation of JacobMeaning:
"supplanter"Description:
What a difference a couple of letters make: Old World version of most popular name never quite made it out of the shtetl.
- Yackim
Description:
Yackim is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, considered a variant of Joachim or Yakim. In Hebrew, it derives from 'Yehoiakim' meaning 'God will establish' or 'God will raise up.' The name appears in biblical contexts, notably in genealogies and as a variation of Joachim, who in Christian tradition was the father of the Virgin Mary. Despite its ancient roots, Yackim remains quite rare in contemporary usage. The name has a distinctive sound that combines traditional biblical heritage with an uncommon spelling that sets it apart from more familiar variants. Parents might choose Yackim for its religious significance, unique character, and meaningful etymology suggesting divine support and establishment. Its rarity ensures individuality while still maintaining recognizable biblical connections.
- Yeremy
Description:
Yeremy is a masculine name that represents a variation of Jeremy, which derives from the Hebrew name Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), meaning "appointed by God" or "God will uplift." This spelling variation appears to incorporate elements of how the name is pronounced in some Spanish or Eastern European contexts, where the initial "J" might be pronounced as a "Y" sound. Yeremy offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Jeremy while maintaining the same essential pronunciation. The name is relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality while still being recognizable. Parents might choose this spelling to honor multicultural heritage or simply to provide their child with a more unique version of a classic biblical name.
- Yudif
Description:
Yudif is a feminine name that represents a rare variant of Judith, which derives from the Hebrew name Yehudit meaning 'woman from Judea' or 'Jewish woman.' The biblical Judith was a heroine who saved her people from the Assyrian army. Yudif maintains the strength and cultural significance of its root name while offering a unique spelling variation. This uncommon form may be found in some Eastern European or Slavic language communities. While not widely used globally, Yudif appeals to parents seeking a name with ancient roots but a distinctive modern presentation. Its rarity makes it stand out while still connecting to the rich historical and biblical traditions associated with Judith.