Awesome Slavic Names
- Ace
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"one, unity"Description:
No longer tied to the hapless Ace Ventura, this jaunty, high-flying nickname name is starting to take flight among celebrity and other parents, with its countless positive references to doing well in tests and poker games, on the tennis court and golf course, and in the air.
- Aldona
Origin:
Polish, Lithunian, meaning unknownDescription:
A historical name with pagan roots that belonged to Aldona, a 14th-century Queen consort of Poland and princess of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
- Aleks
Description:
Aleks is a masculine name representing a streamlined, modernized spelling of Alexander, which derives from Greek elements meaning 'defender of the people.' This simplified variant is particularly common in Eastern European countries, including Poland, Slovenia, and other Slavic regions, though it's growing in popularity worldwide as parents seek shorter forms of traditional names. Aleks maintains the strength and historical gravitas of Alexander while offering a more contemporary, international feel. The name's brevity makes it practical and distinctive in Western contexts while still honoring its classical roots. Notable bearers can be found in sports, arts, and literature throughout Eastern Europe, contributing to its cross-cultural appeal.
- Aleksandra
Origin:
Russian, Ukrainian and Bulgarian version of Alexandra, GreekMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
Aleksandra is the preferred spelling in many Eastern European languages and cultures, but for English-speakers it's ironically more confusing if also perfectly phonetically clear.
- Alena
Origin:
Variation of HelenDescription:
Alena is a modern variant of Helen. Alena might also be a spelling twist on the Slavic Alina or a long form of Lena.
- Alenka
Origin:
Slovene diminutive of AlenaMeaning:
"bright and shining light"Description:
Nickname for Alena, a Helen variation that can be heard in Eastern Europe.
- Alise
Origin:
Latvian or English variation of AliceDescription:
About 60 girls were named Alise in the US last year, making it an uncommon but not truly rare name. While it's pretty and intriguing as a spin on the very popular Alice, it's pronounced more like Elise or -- in Latvian -- Elisa, and so may prove more confusing than it's worth. If you want to name your daughter Alice, name her Alice, and if you want to name her Elise, name her Elise. Choosing Alise in many ways gives you the worst of all worlds.
- Alma
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"nurturing, soul"Description:
Alma is a somewhat solemn, soulful name that had a burst of popularity a century ago, then faded into the flowered wallpaper, and is now finding its footing once more.
- Amalija
Description:
Amalija is a feminine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Slovenia, Croatia, and other South Slavic countries. It derives from the Germanic name Amalia, which means 'work' or 'industrious.' The characteristic Slavic spelling with 'j' gives the name its distinctive pronunciation and cultural connection. Amalija gained international recognition when it was revealed as the name of Melania Trump's mother, Amalija Knavs. The name carries associations with diligence, strength, and determination. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it remains a traditional choice in Eastern Europe, appreciated for its melodic quality and strong feminine character that combines elegance with resilience.
- Ana
Origin:
Variation of HannahMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Confident and compact, Ana is a widely used variation of the Biblical Hannah. Favored in Spain, Slovenia, Bosnia, Portugal, and Croatia, this shorter spelling has the same substance and versatility of its longer counterparts.
- Andon
Description:
Andon is a masculine name with Bulgarian, Macedonian, and Greek origins. It derives from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "man" or "warrior." In Bulgarian traditions, it's associated with Saint Anthony, rendered as Anton or Andon in Slavic languages. The name has been used throughout the Balkan region for centuries, often appearing in historical records and literature. While not extremely common internationally, Andon remains in use in Eastern European communities and diaspora populations. It offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Anthony or Andrew while maintaining similar roots. The name typically conveys strength and masculinity in its cultural contexts.
- Andreja
Origin:
Slovene, Croatian, from GreekMeaning:
"strong and manly"Description:
The Slovene and Croatian feminine form of Andrew.
- Angel
Origin:
Spanish and EnglishMeaning:
"angel, messenger"Description:
As a boys' name, Angel has two distinct name personalities. One is as a perennial favorite Hispanic boys’ name, popular in the US along with Spain, Mexico, and South America.
- Angela
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"angel"Description:
Angela was a Top 10 name from 1965 to 1979, the fifth most popular name for three years, and staying in the double digits until the turn of the 21st century. Today, though, Angelina or Angelica would be more fashionable options.
- Angelika
Description:
Angelika is a feminine name representing the Eastern European, German and Scandinavian spelling of Angelica. Derived from Latin 'angelicus' meaning 'angelic' or 'of angels,' it carries celestial and spiritual connotations. This spelling variant with a 'k' instead of 'c' is particularly common in Poland, Germany, Russia, and several Scandinavian countries. While the Angelica spelling is more prevalent in English-speaking regions, Angelika has gained modest usage among families with European connections or those seeking a slightly distinctive twist on the classic name. The name evokes qualities of purity, beauty and heavenly grace. Its international recognition makes it accessible while the spelling gives it a subtle European sophistication.
- Anica
Origin:
Romanian, Slovene, Croatian, SerbianMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Diminutive form of Anna, pronounced "ah-nee-tsa" in Slovene, Croatian and Serbian and like Annika in Romanian.
- Anja
Origin:
Scandinavian; Finnish; Slovene; Croatian; Serbian, from RussianMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Anja is one of the most international of several versions of Ann/Anna now being imported, also including Anya and Annika.
- Anka
Origin:
Polish, Bulgarian, Croatian, Serbian, SloveneMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Slavic diminutive of Anna
- Anton
Origin:
German, Russian, and Scandinavian variation of AnthonyDescription:
Cultured and cultivated in an old-style, Old World way, Anton is popular across Europe. It may be associated with the classic Russian playwright Anton Chekhov and also with ballroom dancer Anton Du Beke.
- Antonija
Description:
Antonija is a feminine name of Slavic origin, particularly popular in Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and other South Slavic countries. It is the feminine form of Antonius (Anthony), ultimately derived from the Roman family name Antonius, which has uncertain origins but may have meant "priceless" or "praiseworthy." The name carries a rich historical legacy, having been borne by various saints and notable figures throughout European history. While less common in English-speaking countries, Antonija retains popularity in Eastern Europe. The name combines classical roots with a distinctive Slavic flavor, characterized by its elegant pronunciation (an-toh-NEE-yah) and the feminine ending "-ja." It offers a unique alternative to the more common Antonia.