Awesome Russian Names
- Agnessa
Description:
Agnessa is a feminine name with Slavic and Greek roots, serving as a variant of Agnes. The original name Agnes derives from the Greek word 'hagnos,' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Agnessa emerged as a more ornate form popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. The addition of the '-sa' suffix creates a softer, more melodious quality to the traditional Agnes. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name carries an elegant, vintage charm with connections to early Christian history. Saint Agnes, a martyr of the early 4th century, has helped maintain the name's legacy throughout the centuries, though Agnessa remains a distinctive choice that combines classical heritage with exotic appeal.
- Aleksandr
Origin:
Russian; Armenian, from GreekMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
A form of Alexander commonly used in Russia, Armenia, Estonia and Kazakhstan.
- 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.
- Aleksandrina
Description:
Aleksandrina is a feminine name of Slavic origin, representing the female form of Aleksandr (Alexander). Derived from the Greek name Alexandros, combining "alexein" (to defend) and "andros" (man), it means "defender of mankind" or "protector of men." Popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Bulgaria, and Macedonia, Aleksandrina carries a regal quality, as it was borne by several royal figures throughout history. The name offers various diminutive forms like Sasha, Aleks, or Rina. While less common in Western countries, its international character and classic origins make it an elegant choice with cross-cultural appeal. The name combines traditional heritage with a melodious, feminine quality.
- Aleksei
Description:
Aleksei is a masculine name of Russian origin, representing the Slavic form of Alexius or Alexis, ultimately derived from the Greek 'alexein' meaning 'to defend' or 'to help.' This powerful name has been borne by numerous Russian tsars, Orthodox saints, and notable figures throughout history. Common in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and other Eastern European countries, Aleksei carries a strong cultural heritage while being recognized internationally. The spelling variations include Alexei, Alexey, and Aleksey, with pronunciation typically emphasizing the second syllable. The name conveys strength and protection while maintaining a classic, timeless quality. In Western countries, it's recognized as distinctively Slavic but still accessible.
- Alisa
Origin:
Variation of Alice, or HebrewMeaning:
"noble; great happiness"Description:
Alisa is variation of Alice with a touch of international flair. Used in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Estonia and Poland, it is also familiar in English speaking countries too. As a Hebrew name, Alisa has a bright, cheerful meaning, that adds another layer to the name.
- Alyona
Origin:
Diminutive of Yelena, RussianMeaning:
"bright and shining light"Description:
New name in the pool of international names, added by lovely supermodel Alyona Osmanova.
- Anastasia
Origin:
Greek, feminine variation of AnastasiosMeaning:
"resurrection"Description:
Anastasia is the feminine form on Anastasius, a Greek name derived from the word anastasis, meaning "resurrection." It was a common name among early Christians, who often gave it to daughters born around Christmas or Easter. There are handful of saints named Anastasia, including the patron saint of weavers.
- Andrei
Origin:
Russian form of AndrewMeaning:
"manly"Description:
Russian, Belarusian, Romanian and Bulgarian form of Andrew
- 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.
- Angelina
Origin:
Greek, Italian, Spanish, Russian diminutive of AngelaMeaning:
"angel"Description:
The gorgeous Angelina Jolie has promoted the star power of her name and changed Angelina's image from delicate to intense, from older Italian mama to stylish multi-cultural child. Kids might relate to the dancing mouse in the series of charming children's books, Angelina Ballerina, or to the Harry Potter character, Angelina Johnson Weasley, a member of Dumbledore's army.
- Ania
Description:
Ania is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Poland and other Eastern European countries. It functions as a diminutive form of Anna, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The name features a straightforward pronunciation (AHN-yah or AHN-ee-ah, depending on regional accents) that travels well across language boundaries despite its specific cultural roots. Ania has a delicate, feminine quality while maintaining simplicity and brevity. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, it has gained some recognition with increased global cultural awareness. The name carries the warmth and timeless quality of its root name Anna while offering a fresh, slightly exotic alternative that's still easy to pronounce and spell.
- Anna
Origin:
Variation of Hannah, HebrewMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Anna has become the dominant form of the Ann family, offering a touch of the international to English speakers and a bit more style than the oversimplified Ann or Anne.
- Annushka
Description:
Annushka is a diminutive form of Anna in Russian and other Slavic languages. This affectionate nickname adds the suffix "-ushka," creating a warm, endearing version of the classic name. Anna itself derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning "grace" or "favor." Annushka carries the same elegant meaning while adding a distinctly Eastern European flair. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name has cultural significance in Russia and appears in classic Russian literature, including works by Tolstoy and Chekhov. Annushka conveys a sense of traditional femininity with a touch of exotic charm.
- 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.
- Arina
Origin:
Variation of Irina, Russian from GreekMeaning:
"peace"Description:
This form of Irina supersedes the original in its native country.
- Daniil
Origin:
Greek; Russian; BelarusianMeaning:
"God is my judge"Description:
The Greek, Russian and Belarusian form of Daniel.
- Darya
Origin:
Russian or Persian, variation of Daria or feminine form of DariusMeaning:
"kingly; possessing goodness; the sea"Description:
The beguiling Darya is the name of a character in Tolstoy's Anna Karenina. As a Russian name, it's a spelling variation of Daria, while in Iran, it's a girl's name that means "the sea".
- Demyan
Description:
Demyan is a masculine Slavic name, particularly common in Russia and Ukraine. It derives from the Greek name Damian (Δαμιανός/Damianos), which means 'to tame' or 'subdue.' The name gained significance in Christian tradition through Saint Damian, who alongside his brother Cosmas, was known for healing the sick without payment. In Russian culture, Demyan appears in folklore and literature, including famous works by Pushkin. While maintaining steady popularity in Eastern European countries, the name remains relatively uncommon in Western nations. Demyan offers a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Damian while retaining its historical depth and cross-cultural appeal, with a strong, masculine sound and rich cultural heritage.
- Diana
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"divine"Description:
Diana, the tragic British princess, inspired many fashions, but strangely, not one for her name. For us, Diana is a gorgeous and still-underused choice.