If you’re looking for a strong and meaningful name for your baby, Russian names are a great choice for you. Also, Russian names for children are now very relevant and important for parents who have emigrated to other countries, but want to preserve their nationality, culture and traditions in their children.
Traditional Russian names consist of a first name, a patronymic name [1], and a surname. Patronymic names are used to show respect – usually to people who are superior in rank or older. The patronymic name is made from the father’s name with different endings added for boys and girls: OVNA and EVNA for women; and OVICH and EVICH for men. For example, Mikhailovna and Sergeevna for females; Mikhailovich and Sergeevich for males.
Today, all Russian names are mostly borrowed. Originally, there were very few Russian Slavic names or they were outdated. In most cases, Russian names have Greek roots because the country officially adopted Christianity in 988 [2].
Also, an interesting fact is that many Russian names have turned into very common Russian surnames [3]. For example: Peter-Petrov, Ivan-Ivanov, Boris-Borisov, etc.
Do you think a Russian name might be right for your son? We can help you find the perfect Russian boy name for your child.
Popular Russian Boy Names
The following Russian baby names are very popular in the country of Russia. All those male names have great meanings, offering you a lot of good names to choose from.
1. Aleksandr
Original:
Александр
How to pronounce:
ah-leyk-SAHNDR
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀλέξανδρος
Meaning:
Men’s Defender
Female Version of the name:
Aleksandra
Alternative spelling:
Sasha, Alex, Shurik, Sanya
Variations in other languages:
Alexander (USA, Great Britain, Germany), Alessandro (Italy), Alejandro (Spain), Oleksandr (Ukraine), Iskander (Turkey)
Anatoly Lyadov was a famous Russian composer and conductor.
4. Andrei
Original:
Андрей
How to pronounce:
ahn-DRYEY
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀνδρέας
Meaning:
Manly, brave
Alternative spelling:
Andryusha, Andryuha
Variations in other languages:
Andrew/Andy/ Drew (English), Andrzej (Polish), André (French), Andrés (Spanish), Andriy (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Andrei Rubliov was a famous Russian icon painter. One of the greatest medieval Russian painters of Orthodox Christian icons.Andrei Tarkovsky was a famous Soviet Russian film director.
5. Anton
Original:
Антон
How to pronounce:
ahn-TON
Origin:
Latin Antonius
Meaning:
Competitor, withstand, someone who is entering the battle
Female Version of the name:
Antonina, Antoniya
Alternative spelling:
Antoha, Toha, Antoshka, Tosha
Variations in other languages:
Anthony/Tony (English), Antonio (Spanish, Italian), Antoniusz (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Anton Chekhov was a famous Russian playwright and short story writer.
Interesting Fact:
According to some, the name Anton means “priceless”, “flower”.
6. Artyom
Original:
Артём
How to pronounce:
ahr-TYOM
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀρτεμής
Meaning:
Unharmed, of pure health
Female Version of the name:
Artemia, Artemida
Alternative spelling:
Tyoma, Artyomka, Artemiy
Variations in other languages:
Artemio (Spanish, Italian), Artem (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Artyom Mikoyan is a Soviet Armenian aircraft designer.
Interesting Fact:
Associated with the name of the ancient Greek goddess of the hunt, Artemis.
7. Artur
Original:
Артур
How to pronounce:
ahr-TOOR
Origin:
Celtic
Meaning:
Presumably derived from the Welsh word “arth”, which translates to “bear.” “Art-ur” (old spelling – “Arto-uiros”) – “man-bear”, “bear-like”
Alternative spelling:
Arturka
Variations in other languages:
Arthur (English, French), Arturo (Spanish, Italian)
Famous Persons:
Artur Rubinstein was a famous Polish-American pianist.
Interesting Fact:
The main image associated with the name – as well as the reason for its popularity (distribution) – is the legendary King Arthur.
8. Daniil
Original:
Даниил
How to pronounce:
gah-nee-EEL
Origin:
Biblical, ancient hebrew דניאל (private name of prophet Daniel)
In Christian Russia, the name could be used metaphorically to emphasize the personal qualities of a person, his “real Christianity.”In the 19th century, it was the most common name in Russia.
19. Kirill
Original:
Кирилл
How to pronounce:
keeh-REEHL
Origin:
Ancient Greek Κύριλλος
Meaning:
Master, lord, ruler
Female Version of the name:
Kira
Alternative spelling:
Kirilka, Kiriusha, Kir
Variations in other languages:
Cyril/ Cy (English), Cirillo (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Kirill Razumovsky was the last Hetman of Zaporozhian Host. Count of Russia Empire.
Some believe that the name Sergei could come from the Latin “servi dei”, which translates as “Servant of God”.
31. Stepan
Original:
Степан
How to pronounce:
stye-PAHN
Origin:
Ancient Greek Στέφανος
Meaning:
A wreath, a crown, a tiara
Female Version of the name:
Stefania
Alternative spelling:
Styopa
Variations in other languages:
Steven/ Stephen/ Stephan/ Steve (English), Stefano (Italian), Étienne (French), Szczepan/ Stefan (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Stefan Zweig was a famous Austrian novelist, playwright, and journalist.
Interesting Fact:
In Ancient Greek mythology, the wreath (or diadem) is a traditional attribute of the goddess Hera. Therefore, the appearance of the name Stepan/Stefan is associated with patronage of this goddess.
32. Taras
Original:
Тарас
How to pronounce:
tah-RAHS
Origin:
Ancient Greek Τάρας
Meaning:
restless, rebellious, rebelto confuse, to disturb
Alternative spelling:
Tasik
Famous Persons:
Taras Shevchenko is a famous Ukrainian poet, writer, and artist [9].
Interesting Fact:
One of the versions of the origin of the name Taras is a character in ancient Greek mythology – the son of the god Poseidon – Tarentum. The city and the river were named after him, and the name was later transformed into Taras.
Vitaly Klitschko is a Ukrainian politician and former professional boxer.
Traditional Russian Names For Boys
Traditional Russian names are those that have been used in Russia for generations and are still in widespread use. Below is a list of some traditional Russian baby names for boys which are powerful.
39. Boris
Original:
Борис
How to pronounce:
boh-REES
Origin:
Old Slavic Ancient BulgarianOld MongolianArabicTurkish
Meaning:
Fighter, glorious in the fight
Alternative spelling:
Borya, Bor’ka, Boriska
Variations in other languages:
Borys (English, Ukrainian. Polish), Barış (Turkish)
Famous Persons:
Boris Yeltsin was the first president of Russia after the Soviet period.
Interesting Fact:
There are many different opinions about where this name originated from.
40. Bogdan
Original:
Богдан
How to pronounce:
boh-DAHN
Origin:
Old Slavic
Meaning:
God’s gift, God-given, a gift from God
Female Version of the name:
Bogdana
Alternative spelling:
Bodya
Variations in other languages:
Bozhidar (Bulgarian) The name appeared as an analogue of the ancient Greek name Theodotus, which in translation means “Given by the gods”. Therefore, the meaning of the name Bogdan is equal to the names Theodor (English, German) and Dieudonné (French).
Famous Persons:
Bogdan Stupka is a famous Soviet and Ukrainian theater and cinema actor.
Interesting Fact:
In ancient Russia, this name was often given to illegitimate children.
41. Egor
Original:
Егор
How to pronounce:
ye-GOR
Origin:
Russian
Meaning:
farmer
Alternative spelling:
Egorka, Gora
Famous Persons:
Egor Kovalevsky is a famous Russian and Ukrainian diplomat, traveler, orientalist and writer.
Interesting Fact:
Derived from the Greek name George (like the name Yuri).
42. Miroslav
Original:
Мирослав
How to pronounce:
meeh-roh-SLAV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Peaceful Glory
Female Version of the name:
Miroslava
Alternative spelling:
Mira, Mir
Variations in other languages:
Myroslav (Ukrainian), Mirosław (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Myroslav Skoryk was a famous Ukrainian composer.
43. Mstislav
Original:
Мстислав
How to pronounce:
msteeh-SLAV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
A glorious defender
Alternative spelling:
Stiva, Slava
Famous Persons:
Mstislav Rostropovich was a famous Soviet and Russian cellist and conductor.
44. Rostislav
Original:
Ростислав
How to pronounce:
ros-tees-LAHV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
To increase glory
Female Version of the name:
Rostislava
Alternative spelling:
Rostik
Variations in other languages:
Rostyslav (Ukrainian), Rościsław (Polish)
Interesting Fact:
This name was a family name of the Rurik dynasty in Kievan Rus’ [10].
45. Stanislav
Original:
Станислав
How to pronounce:
stah-nee-SLAHV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Who became glorious, glorious government
Female Version of the name:
Stanislava
Alternative spelling:
Stas, Stasik, Slava
Variations in other languages:
Estanislao (Spanish), Stanislas (French)
Famous Persons:
Stanislav (Stanisław) Lem was a famous Polish writer, philosopher and futurologist.
Interesting Fact:
Short version ‘Stas’ is more useful as an independent name.
46. Yaroslav
Original:
Ярослав
How to pronounce:
yah-roh-SLAHV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Bright Glory
Female Version of the name:
Yaroslava
Alternative spelling:
Yarik
Variations in other languages:
Jarosław (Polish).
Famous Persons:
Yaroslav the Wise (Yaroslav I) was the Grand Prince of Kiev [11].
47. Vadim
Original:
Вадим
How to pronounce:
vah-DEEM
Origin:
Old Slavic
Meaning:
Having attractiveness
Alternative spelling:
Vadik, Vadya
Variations in other languages:
Wadzim (Belorusian), Wadym (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Vadim Roger is a French screenwriter, director and producer.
Interesting Fact:
There are several versions of the origin of the name. One of them is that the name Vadim came from the Old Russian word “vaditi”, which means “to slander, sow confusion”.
48. Vladislav
Original:
Влад
How to pronounce:
vlah-dee-SLAHV
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Own the glory
Female Version of the name:
Vladislava
Alternative spelling:
Vlad, Vladik
Variations in other languages:
Ladislao (Spanish), Władysław (Polish).
Famous Persons:
Vlad Dracula (Vlad III, Vlad the Impaler) was a voivode and ruler in medieval Romania. In pop culture, it refers to the most famous “vampire”.
Interesting Fact:
The form “Vlad” also can be an independent name.
49.Vladimir
Original:
Владимир
How to pronounce:
vlah-DEE-meer
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Owning the World
Alternative spelling:
Vova, Volodya
Variations in other languages:
Volodymyr (Ukrainian), Włodzimierz (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Vladimir Putin is the president of Russian Federation.
Interesting Fact:
For a long time, it was used only among the princes of Kievan Rus.
50. Vsevolod
Original:
Всеволод
How to pronounce:
vsye-voh-LOD
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Owning Everything
Alternative spelling:
Seva
Variations in other languages:
Visvaldas (Lithuanian)
Famous Persons:
Vsevolod Rozhdestvensky is a famous Soviet Russian poet.
Vyacheslav Kotyonochkin was a famous Soviet and Russian animation director, animator and artist.
Interesting Fact:
It was the name of the ancient Russian prince and, therefore, until the 19th century, it was almost never used. But now it is one of the very popular names.
Short Russian Male Names
A short Russian baby name, despite its length, can have an enormous impact, and can be a good way to balance out a longer last name. We also just think they’re cool.
52. Erik
Original:
Эрик
How to pronounce:
E-reek
Origin:
Ancient Scandinavian Eirikr
Meaning:
The Eternal Ruler
Female Version of the name:
Erika
Variations in other languages:
Erich (German), Erico (Italian, Spanish)
Famous Persons:
Erik Satie was a famous French composer and pianist
Interesting Fact:
In the Catholic tradition, Saint Eric of Sweden, the patron saint of Sweden and its capital Stockholm, is revered.
53. Foma
Original:
Фома
How to pronounce:
foh-MAH
Origin:
Aramaic תאומא
Meaning:
The twin
Alternative spelling:
Fomka
Variations in other languages:
Thomas (English), Tomasso (Italian), Homa (Ukrainian).
Famous Persons:
Thomas (Foma) Aquinas is an Italian Medieval Domonican friar, philosopher and Catolic priest
54. Gleb
Original:
Глеб
How to pronounce:
GLYEB
Origin:
Ancient Scandinavian Guðleifr
Meaning:
The heir of God, favorite of the gods
Alternative spelling:
Glebka
Variations in other languages:
Hleb (Polish), Glib (Ukraininan)
Famous Persons:
Gleb Uspensky is a Russian Empire writer.
Interesting Fact:
Gleb is a popular surname in Russia and Belarus.
55. Igor
Original:
Игорь
How to pronounce:
EE-gohr’
Origin:
Ancient Scandinavian Ingvarr
Meaning:
A man protected by God
Alternative spelling:
Igoryok, Igorka
Variations in other languages:
Igar (Belarusian)
Famous Persons:
Igor Stravinsky is a famous Russian composer, conductor and pianist.
Ilya Repin was a famous Russian Imperial realist painter.
Interesting Fact:
Ilya Muromets is one of the most famous Russian folklore heroes.
57. Ivan
Original:
Иван
How to pronounce:
ee-VAHN
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew יוחנן
Meaning:
God is gracious, the grace of God
Alternative spelling:
Ioann, Vanya
Variations in other languages:
John/ Shawn/ Sean/ Shaun (English), Juan (Spanish), Giovanni (Italian), Jan/ Janusz (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Ivan the Terrible (Grozny) was the tsar of all Rus’ [12].
Interesting Fact:
One of the most popular names in Russia before the 21st century.
58. Lev
Original:
Лев
How to pronounce:
LYEV
Origin:
Ancient Greek Λέων
Meaning:
Lion
Alternative spelling:
Liova
Variations in other languages:
Leo (English, German, French)
Famous Persons:
Lev Tolstoy is a famous Russian writer.
Interesting Fact:
The name became popular in Russia due to the fame of Leo Tolstoy. In honor of him, parents began to give their children this name. In Russia, children were given this name so that they could have the same strength as a lion.
59. Luka
Original:
Лука
How to pronounce:
loo-KAH
Origin:
Ancient Greek Λουκᾶς
Meaning:
Bright, luminous, born at dawn
Variations in other languages:
Luke/ Lucas (English), Luca (Italian), Luc (French)
Famous Persons:
Luca Guadagnino is a famous Italian filmmaker.
Interesting Fact:
The Apostle Luke was the author of one of the Gospels in the New Testament.
60. Mark
Original:
Марк
How to pronounce:
MAHRK
Origin:
Latin 1) Marcus 2) Martius(March in English)
Meaning:
1) Hammer2) born in March
Alternative spelling:
Markusha
Variations in other languages:
Marcos (Spain), Marek (Polish), Marko/ Markiyan (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Mark Twain is a famous American writer.
Interesting Fact:
Some believe that the name Mark comes from the name of the Roman god of war: Mars.
61.Oleg
Original:
Олег
How to pronounce:
oh-LYEG
Origin:
Ancient Scandinavian Hélgi
Meaning:
Holy, Saint
Female Version of the name:
Olga
Alternative spelling:
Olezhka
Variations in other languages:
Helge (Swedish, Dutch)
Famous Persons:
Oleg Tabakov is a famous Soviet Russian actor.
Interesting Fact:
Oleg of Novgorod (Oleg Veshchy) was the first Grand Prince of Kievan Rus’.
62. Pyotr
Original:
Пётр
How to pronounce:
PYOTR
Origin:
Ancient Greek Πέτρος
Meaning:
Stone, rock
Alternative spelling:
Petya
Variations in other languages:
Peter/ Pete (English), Pierre (French), Pedro (Spanish), Pietro (Italian), Petro (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Pyotr I (Peter the Great) was the tsar and the emperor of the Russian Empire.
Interesting Fact:
As in the case of the name Pavel, one of the most famous surnames, Petrov [13], originated from the name of Peter.
63. Yuri
Original:
Юрий
How to pronounce:
YOO-reey
Origin:
Ancient Greek Γεώργιος
Meaning:
Farmer
Alternative spelling:
Yura, Yurchyk
Famous Persons:
Yuri Gagarin was a Soviet pilot and astronaut who became the first human to journey into outer space [14].
Interesting Fact:
Yuri is a variant of the Greek name George. George remained only in church use (it was a baptismal name), and the name Yuri was considered its secular form.
The name Vlas is sometimes identified with the name of the Slavic god Veles (Volos), who was the patron saint of cattle.
Rare Russian Boy Names
Over time, some traditional Russian names have gone out of common use for some reason. Now, they are less popular, but they are still found among Russian children. Interestingly, what are their names? Read our next list of rare Russian boy names in the 21st century.
65. Albert
Original:
Альберт
How to pronounce:
ahl-BYERT
Origin:
Old German, Frankish Adalbert
Meaning:
Noble, brilliant
Female Version of the name:
Alberta, Albertina
Alternative spelling:
Bert
Variations in other languages:
Albert (English, French), Alberto (Spanish, Italian)
Famous Persons:
Albert Einstein was a famous German theoretical physicist, scientist.
Interesting Fact:
The name became popular in Russia after the October Revolution, when the church separated from the state and it became possible to give non-Orthodox names.
66. Arkady
Original
Аркадий
How to pronounce:
ahr-KAH-deey
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀρκάς
Meaning:
From Arcadia In Slavic tradition, this name is interpreted as “courageous”.
Female Version of the name:
Arkadiya
Alternative spelling:
Arkasha, Adya
Variations in other languages:
Arkadiusz (Polish), Arkád (Czech)
Famous Persons:
Arkady Strugatsky was a famous Soviet-Russian science-fiction writer.
67. Arseny
Original:
Арсений
How to pronounce:
ahr-SYE-neey
Origin:
Ancient Greek Αρσένιος
Meaning:
Virile and strong
Alternative spelling:
Arsen, Senya
Variations in other languages:
Arsenio (Portugal, Spanish), Arsène (French)
Famous Persons:
Arseny Tarkovsky was a Soviet Russian poet and translator. He was the father of Andrei Tarkovsky, who was a famous film director.
68. Feliks
Original:
Феликс
How to pronounce:
FE-lix
Origin:
Latin Felix
Meaning:
A happy, prosperous, lucky guy
Alternative spelling:
Felya
Variations in other languages:
Felice/ Felicio (Italian)It sounds the same in most languages
Famous Persons:
Felix Mendelssohn was a famous German composer who wrote “The Wedding March”.
Yulian Semyonov was a famous Russian Soviet writer of spy fiction and detective fiction.
Interesting Fact:
There is a translation option for the name: the name of the month of July. Literally the month “July” in Latin “Julius” means “the month of Julius (Caesar)”
Veniamin Kaverin is a famous Soviet Russian writer.
82. Zahar
Original:
Захар
How to pronounce:
zakh-HAR
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew זְכַרְיָה
Meaning:
Remembering the Lord
Alternative spelling:
Zahariy, Zaharka
Variations in other languages:
Zachary (English), Zaccaria (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Zahariy Zograf is a famous Bulgarian painter.
Unique Old Slavic Russian Names For Boys
Are you looking for rare and unique Russian boy names that no-one else uses? Below is a list of 17 unique and rare Old Slavic boy names that will hopefully make your choice a bit easier.
83. Arhip
Original:
Архип
How to pronounce:
ahr-HEEP
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἅρχιππος
Meaning:
Chief of the horses
Variations in other languages:
Archippo (Italian), Archippe (French)
Famous Persons:
Arhip Kuindzhi is a famous Russian and Ukrainian landscape painter.
Damia is an ancient Greek goddess of fertility and abundance.
85. Emelyan
Original:
Емельян
How to pronounce:
ye-myel’-YAAHN
Origin:
Latin Aemiliánus
Meaning:
Opponent, participant of the competition
Alternative spelling:
Emelya, Emil’
Variations in other languages:
Omelyan (Ukrainian), Emiliano (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Emelyan (Yemelyan) Pugachev was an ataman of the Yaik Cossacks.
86. Gavriil
Original:
Гавриил
How to pronounce:
gav-ree-EEL
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew גבריאל
Meaning:
My power is God, the power of God
Alternative spelling:
Gavrila
Variations in other languages:
Gabriel (English), Gabriele (Italian), Gavrylo (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Gavriil Troepolsky was a famous Soviet writer best known for his novel “White Bim Black Ear”.
87. Gordey
Original:
Гордей
How to pronounce:
gohr-DYEY
Origin:
Ancient Greek Γορδίας
Meaning:
My Lord, the King
Alternative spelling:
Gordya
Interesting Fact:
Goes back to the name of the legendary Phrygian king Gordius, who tied the “Gordian knot”. When the Phrygians lost their king, the oracle ordered to put on the throne whoever they first met on the road to the temple of Zeus, riding a cart. This man turned out to be Gordius. He set up his carriage as a monument in the citadel of the city, entangling its yoke with the most complicated knot. Whoever untied this “Gordian knot” would become the ruler of Asia. According to legend, Alexander the Great simply cut the knot with his sword.
88. Innokenty
Original:
Иннокентий
How to pronounce:
eehn-noh-KYEN-tey
Origin:
Latin Innocentius
Meaning:
Innocent
Alternative spelling:
Kesha
Variations in other languages:
Innocenzo (Italian), Inocencio (Spanish)
Famous Persons:
Innokenty Smoktunovsky is a famous Soviet and Russian theatre and film actor.
Panteleimon Kulish is a famous Ukrainian writer, critic, poet, folklorist and translator.
Interesting Fact:
According to another version of the name’s origin, the name is translated as “merciful”.
98. Savely
Original:
Савелий
How to pronounce:
sah-VYE-leey
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew שָׁאוּל
Meaning:
Heavy work
Alternative spelling:
Sava
Famous Persons:
Savely (Xaver) Tartokover was one of the most powerful chess players of the early 20th century.
Interesting Fact:
Some believe that the name comes from the ancient Greek “Sabellus”, which means “simple, unpretentious.”
99. Spartak
Original:
Спартак
How to pronounce:
spahr-TAK
Origin:
Ancient Greek Σπάρτακος
Meaning:
1) A resident of Sparta2) Trampling
Famous Persons:
Spartak Belyaev was a famous Soviet and Russian theoretical physicist.
Interesting Fact:
The name became very popular in Soviet Russia due to the fact that it was associated with protest and the famous revolutionary of antiquity: Spartacus.
Yakov Smirnoff is a Ukrainian-American comedian, actor and writer of Jewish origin.
Interesting Fact:
The meaning of the name is associated with Biblical history. In the Old Testament, Jacob was Esau’s twin. At birth, Jacob held Esau’s heel.
TOP 100 Russian Girl Names
What name to pick for your daughter is not an easy decision, but it is one of the most important and significant decisions you will make as a parent.
Below, we have gathered for you 100 of the most rare, pretty, sonorous and unique Russian names for girls.
Popular Russian Girl Names
Names become popular because people like their meanings or the way they sound. Below, we have put together a list of the most popular Russian girl names:
Aleksandra Feodorovna was the wife of the last Russian emperor Nicholas II.
Interesting Fact:
In ancient Greek mythology, the name Kassandra is synonymous with the name of Alexander.
2. Alina
Original:
Алина
How to pronounce:
ah-LEE-nah
Origin:
From Ancient German Adelheid – passed into Latin as Adelina and then it was borrowed and abbreviated as Alina
Meaning:
Noble
Alternative spelling:
Alinka, Alishka
Famous Persons:
Alina Kabaeva is a famous Russian politician and retired individual rhythmic gymnast.
Interesting Fact:
Some believe that, in Scotland, the name was used as the male name Alistair.
3. lisa
Original:
Алиса
How to pronounce:
ah-LEE-sah
Origin:
Old French Alais (Adelais)
Meaning:
Noble girl (woman)
Variations in other languages:
Alice (English), Alisja (Polish), Alicia (Spain)
Famous Persons:
Alisa Freindlich is a famous Soviet and Russian actress.
Interesting Fact:
The name became popular and widespread all over the world after the release of Lewis Carroll’s fairy tale “Alice in Wonderland”.
4. Alla
Original:
Алла
How to pronounce:
AHL-la
Origin:
There are many versions and disputes around the origin of the name. There is no exact answer. Here are some:Ancient greekAncient Arabian (pre-Islamic – that is, the most ancient).Ancient scandinavian CelticAncient slavic
Meaning:
Different (Ancient Greek).Allat is goddess of sky and rain (Ancient arabian version)Worthy, lucky (Scandinavian version)Alla goddess (god’s wife) in Celtic version. Association with scarlet color (Slavic version)
Famous Persons:
Alla Pugacheva is a famous Soviet and Russian singer.
Interesting Fact:
In Arabic, “Alla” can be used as an abbreviation for the male name Aladdin.
5. Anastasiya
Original:
Анастасия
How to pronounce:
ah-nah-stah-SEE-ya
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀναστασία
Meaning:
Rebirth, return to life, resurrection
Male Version of the name:
Anastasy, Anastas
Alternative spelling:
Nastya
Variations in other languages:
Stacy (English), Anastazja (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Anastasiya Verbitskaya was a famous Russian novelist, playwright, publisher, and feminist.
Interesting Fact:
The male version, the name Anastasius, is considered obsolete and not used, while the female name is very popular and widespread.
6. Anna
Original:
Анна
How to pronounce:
AHN-na
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew חַנָּה
Meaning:
Grace; Favor
Alternative spelling:
Anya
Variations in other languages:
Ann/ Anne/ Hanna (English).
Famous Persons:
Anna Yaroslavna (Anne of Kiev) [15] was a Russian princess who became the queen of France. She was a daughter of Yaroslav the Wise.
7. Antonina
Original:
Антонина
How to pronounce:
ahn-tah-NEE-nah
Origin:
Latin Antoninus
Meaning:
Owned by Antony
Male Version of the name:
Anton
Alternative spelling:
Tonya, Tosya
Variations in other languages:
Antoinette (French)
Famous Persons:
Antonina Rzhevskaya is a Russian painter.
Interesting Fact:
Some believe that the name comes from the Greek word ἄνθος, which means “flower”.
8. Darya
Original:
Дарья
How to pronounce:
DAHR-ya
Origin:
Ancient Persian 𐎭𐎠𐎼𐎹𐎺𐎢𐏁(Modern Persian داریوش)
Meaning:
Maintains possessions well
Male Version of the name:
Dary
Alternative spelling:
Dasha, Darina, Daria
Variations in other languages:
Odarka/ Daryna (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Darya Dontsova is a famous Russian writer of detective novels.
Interesting Fact:
In antiquity, the name Darius was associated with three powerful rulers of Persia (Darius I, II and III). Initially, it was only a male name. It is the female version that is widespread in the territory of Russia.
Ekaterina II (Catherine the Great) [16] was empress regnant of Russian Empire. The longest-ruling female leader in Russia.
Interesting Fact:
Due to the reign of Empress Catherine II, which was considered successful and stable (“Catherine’s Golden Age”), the name became very common among Russian noblewomen (before that, it was rare).
10. Elena
Original:
Елена
How to pronounce:
yeh-LYE-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἑλένη
Meaning:
Bright Shining light
Alternative spelling:
Lena, Alyona
Variations in other languages:
Helen/ Elen/ Ellen/ Helena (English), Olena (English)
Famous Persons:
Elena Gnesina was a famous Soviet and Russian composer and music educator.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the origin of the name is connected with what the Greeks called themselves: “Hellenes”.
Evgeniya Kolosova was a famous Russian Empire ballerina.
Interesting Fact:
In the 19th century, the name became very popular among the nobility. Its French version was used: Eugene. From there, it was an abbreviated form: “Zhenya”
13. Galina
Original:
Галина
How to pronounce:
gah-LEE-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek γαλήνη
Meaning:
Calmness, silence, serenity
Alternative spelling:
Galya
Variations in other languages:
Galyna (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Galina Vishnevskaya was a famous Soviet and Russian soprano opera singer.
Interesting Fact:
In ancient Greek mythology, the nereid Galena was the patroness of the calm sea.
14. Inna
Original:
Инна
How to pronounce:
EEN-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek ἸννᾶςLatinInno
Meaning:
1) The Greek name of the Sumerian name of goddess Ishtar.2) Rough stream
Famous Persons:
Inna Lubimenko was a Russian and Soviet historian of the early modern period and a specialist in Anglo-Russian relationships.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the name was originally only masculine. Then, with the emergence of Christianity in Russia, an error occurred during the correspondence of Roman texts, and because of the ending “a”, it came into use as a female one.
Margarita Aliger is a Soviet and Russian poet, translator and journalist.
23. Marta
Original:
Марта
How to pronounce:
MAHR-tah
Origin:
Syrian
Meaning:
Mistress; the lady
Alternative spelling:
Marfa
Variations in other languages:
Martha (English)
Famous Persons:
Martha Dodd was an American novelist and journalist. She was Soviet Union spy.
Interesting Fact:
In Russia, the Martha version was initially widespread. The name was popular among the common people.
24. Marina
Original:
Марина
How to pronounce:
mah-REE-nah
Origin:
Latin Marinus
Meaning:
Marine
Alternative spelling:
Marinka, Marisha
Famous Persons:
Marina Tsvetaeva was a Russian poet. Her work is considered among some of the greatest in 20th century Russian literature.
Interesting Fact:
Derived from the rare Roman male name Marin.
25. Mariya
Original:
Мария
How to pronounce:
mah-REE-yah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew מרים
Meaning:
Be bitter
Alternative spelling:
Masha
Variations in other languages:
Mary/ Marie/ Maria/ Mariah (English)
Famous Persons:
Marie Curie was a Polish and French chemist and physicist.
Interesting Fact:
There is a version that the name comes from another Hebrew name “Miriam”, which means “beloved, desired.”
26. Natalya
Original:
Наталия
How to pronounce:
nah-TAHL-yah
Origin:
Latin Natalia
Meaning:
Native, born
Alternative spelling:
Natalia, Natasha, Natali
Variations in other languages:
Nataly (English), Natalia (Spanish)
Famous Persons:
Natalia Vodyanova is a Russian model and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador.
27. Nina
Original:
Нина
How to pronounce:
NEE-nah
Origin:
Sumerian Georgian ნინო [Nino]Arabian
Meaning:
Mistress YouthBenefit
Famous Persons:
Nina Berberova was a Russian writer and poet. She chronicled the lives of Russian exiles in Paris in her short stories and novels.
Interesting Fact:
The most common version of the origin of the name Nina is associated with the legendary king Ninos – the founder of the New Assyrian state and the city of Nineveh.
28. Oksana
Original:
Оксана
How to pronounce:
ok-SAH-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek
Meaning:
A traveler, a foreigner, a stranger
Alternative spelling:
Oksanka, Ksyusha
Famous Persons:
Oksana Robski is a famous Russian writer and screenwriter.
29. Olga
Original:
Ольга
How to pronounce:
OL’- gah
Origin:
Ancıent Scandınavıan heilagrAncient Slavic Volgo
Meaning:
Holy, sacredMeaningful, great, good
Male Version of the name:
Oleg
Alternative spelling:
Olya
Variations in other languages:
Helga (German)
Famous Persons:
Olga Khokhlova (Picasso) was a Russian ballet dancer and the first wife of Pablo Picasso.
30. Polina
Original:
Полина
How to pronounce:
pah-LEE-nah
Origin:
Latin PaulusAncient Greek Ἀπόλλων
Meaning:
A little, smallSunny, dedicated to the God Apollo
Alternative spelling:
Polya
Variations in other languages:
Paulina (Spain), Pauline (French)
Famous Persons:
Polina Gagarina is a famous Russian singer.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that, originally, the name Pauline could have been a colloquial version of the name Appolinarius.
31. Sofia
Original:
София
How to pronounce:
soh-FEE-yah
Origin:
Ancient Greek σοφία
Meaning:
Wise, the science
Alternative spelling:
Sofa, Sonya
Variations in other languages:
Sophie (English, French), Zofia (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Sofia Rotaru is a famous Ukrainian singer.
Interesting Fact:
The name had an aristocratic status for a long time and was popular with noblewomen.
32. Taisia
Original:
Таисия
How to pronounce:
tah-EE-see-yah
Origin:
Ancient Egyptian Tȝ-Is.t
Meaning:
Owned by the goddess Isis
Alternative spelling:
Taya
Famous Persons:
Taisia Povaly is a famous Ukrainian singer.
33. Tamara
Original:
Тамара
How to pronounce:
tah-MAH-rah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew תַמַר
Meaning:
Date palm
Male Version of the name:
Tomer
Alternative spelling:
Toma
Famous Persons:
Queen Tamar of Georgia. Reigned as the Queen of Georgia and presided over the apex of the Georgian Golden Age.
Interesting Fact:
Tamara is a modern Russian version of the biblical female name Famar.
34. Tatyana
Original:
Татьяна
How to pronounce:
tah-TYAH-nah
Origin:
Latin Tatius
Meaning:
Mistress from the Tatia clan;assigning or sequencing
Alternative spelling:
Tanya, Tanyusha
Famous Persons:
Tatyana Yakovleva was a French and American fashion designer. Muse of Dior and the last love of poet Vladimir Mayakovsky.
Interesting Fact:
Tatiana is a derivative form of the name of the legendary Sabine king Titus Tatia.
35. Valeriya
Original:
Валерия
How to pronounce:
vah-LYEH-ree-yah
Origin:
Latin Valere
Meaning:
Be strong, healthy
Male Version of the name:
Valery
Alternative spelling:
Lera
Variations in other languages:
Valérie (French)
Famous Persons:
Valeria Barsova was a Russian operatic soprano, one of the leading lyric-coloratura sopranos of the first half of the 20th century in Russia.
36. Veronika
Original:
Вероника
How to pronounce:
vye-rah-NEE-kah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Βερονίκη
Meaning:
Victory bringer; true image
Male Version of the name:
Veronik
Alternative spelling:
Nika
Famous Persons:
Veronika Dudarova was a Soviet and Russian conductor. The first woman to succeed as conductor of symphony orchestras in the 20th century.
Interesting Fact:
In Italy, the name was rethought, and began to be interpreted as “a resident of Verona”
37. Valentina
Original:
Валентина
How to pronounce:
vah-leen-TEE-nah
Origin:
LatinValens
Meaning:
Strong, healthy
Male Version of the name:
Valentin
Alternative spelling:
Valya
Variations in other languages:
Valentine (French).
Famous Persons:
Valentina Tereshkova is a Soviet and Russian former cosmonaut. She is the first and youngest woman to have flown in space with a solo mission.
38. Viktoriya
Original:
Виктория
How to pronounce:
veek-TO-ree-ya
Origin:
Latin Victoria
Meaning:
Victory
Male Version of the name:
Viktor
Alternative spelling:
Vika
Variations in other languages:
Vittoria (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Viktoriya Yartseva is a famous Soviet and Russian linguist.
Interesting Fact:
In Roman mythology, Victoria is the goddess of victory, corresponding to the Greek goddess of victory Nike. Therefore, the name of Nike is the analogue of the name Victoria.
39. Yuliya
Original:
Юлия
How to pronounce:
YOO-lee-yah
Origin:
Latin Julianus
Meaning:
“July” or “from the Julian clan”
Male Version of the name:
Yulian
Alternative spelling:
Yulya
Variations in other languages:
Julia (English), Julie (French)
Famous Persons:
Yulia Lermontova was the first Russian female doctor of chemistry.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the name may come from the Greek word ϊουλος (yulos), which means “wavy, fluffy”.
40. Zinaida
Original:
Зинаида
How to pronounce:
zee-nah-EE-dah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ζηναΐς
Meaning:
Belonging to Zeus
Alternative spelling:
Zina
Famous Persons:
Zinaida Gippius was a Russian poet, playwright, novelist, and editor.
Interesting Fact:
In ancient Greece, this name was masculine.
Traditional Russian Names For Girls
There are a lot of traditional female names in Russia that are used nowadays. We have collected for you the most beautiful and cute Russian girl names that have been used for centuries, and have become traditional.
41. Bogdana
Original:
Богдана
How to pronounce:
boh-DAH-nah
Origin:
AncientSlavic
Meaning:
God-given
Male Version of the name:
Bogdan
Alternative spelling:
Dana
Interesting Fact:
The abbreviated form of the name – Dana is also a separate independent name and has its own versions of origin in different countries.
42. Iskra
Original:
Искра
How to pronounce:
EE-skra
Origin:
Slavic, Bulgarian
Meaning:
SparkHonest, kind
Male Version of the name:
Iskr, Iskren
Famous Persons:
Iskra Velinova is a Bulgarian rower.
Interesting Fact:
It is thought that the name appeared in the USSR as revolutionary. And it was formed thanks to the name of the newspaper “Iskra”, which was founded by Lenin.
43. Lada
Original:
Лада
How to pronounce:
LAH-dah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Spouse, wife
Famous Persons:
Lada Dans (Volkova) is a famous Soviet and Russian actress and jazz singer.
Interesting Fact:
Often Lada is an affectionate form of other names: Vlada, Vladislav, Vladlena.
44. Lyubov
Original:
Любовь
How to pronounce:
LYOO-bov’
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Love
Alternative spelling:
Lyuba
Famous Persons:
Lyubov Orlova is a Soviet Russian actress, singer and dancer.
45. Ludmila
Original:
Людмила
How to pronounce:
lyud-MEE-lah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic.
Meaning:
Sweet to people; graceful people
Alternative spelling:
Lyuda, Mila
Famous Persons:
Lyudmila Gurchenko is a famous Soviet and Russian actress, singer and entertainer.
46. Miroslava
Original:
Мирослава
How to pronounce:
mee-ro-SLAH-vah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Peace, glory
Male Version of the name:
Miroslav
Alternative spelling:
Mira
Variations in other languages:
Myroslava (Ukrainian), Mirosława (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Miroslava Duma is a Russian digital entrepreneur and investor in international fashion.
47. Nadezhda
Original:
Надежда
How to pronounce:
nah-DYEHZH-dah
Origin:
Old Slavic
Meaning:
Hope
Alternative spelling:
Nadya
Variations in other languages:
Nadia (English)
Famous Persons:
Nadezhda Krupskaya was a Russian revolutionary and the wife of Vladimir Lenin.
48. Olesya
Original:
Олеся
How to pronounce:
ah-LYEH-sya
Origin:
Ancıent Slavıc
Meaning:
Forest, a girl from the forest
Male Version of the name:
Oles’
Alternative spelling:
Alesya, Lesya
Famous Persons:
Olesya Barel is a Soviet Russian former basketball player.
Interesting Fact:
It is thought that, initially, the name Alesya is a colloquial (folk) form of the name of Alexandra, which has become independent.
49. Rada
Original:
Рада
How to pronounce:
RAH-dah
Origin:
Old Slavic
Meaning:
Funny, cheerful
Alternative spelling:
Radka
Famous Persons:
Rada Granovskaya is a well-known psychologist.
Interesting Fact:
The name comes from the adjective “joyful”.
50. Snezhana
Original:
Снежана
How to pronounce:
snye-ZHAH-nah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Snowy
Alternative spelling:
Snezha
Variations in other languages:
Snizhana (Ukrainian), Śnieżka (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Snezhana Egorova is a famous Ukrainian TV presenter and actress.
Interesting Fact:
The name comes from the word “snow”.
51. Svetlana
Original:
Светлана
How to pronounce:
svyeht-LAH-na
Origin:
Russian
Meaning:
Bright
Alternative spelling:
Sveta
Famous Persons:
Svetlana Savitskaya is a former Russian aviator and Soviet cosmonaut. She became the second woman in Space.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that this name was invented in the 19th century by the poet A. Vostokov in the romance “Svetlana and Mstislav”. Then the name was used by the poet V. Zhukovsky in the ballad “Svetlana”. And later, from literature, the name passed into everyday life.
52. Vera
Original:
Вера
How to pronounce:
VYEH-rah
Origin:
Old Slavic
Meaning:
Faith
Famous Persons:
Vera Brezhneva is a famous Ukrainian and Russian singer.
53. Vladlena
Original:
Владлена
How to pronounce:
vlahd-LYEH-nah
Origin:
Soviet Russian
Meaning:
Vladimir Lenin
Male Version of the name:
Vladlen
Alternative spelling:
Vlada
Interesting Fact:
The name is dedicated to the main revolutionary of the USSR: Vladimir Lenin. And the name Vlada as an independent one is used more now.
54. Yaroslava
Original:
Ярослава
How to pronounce:
yah-rah-SLAH-vah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Fierce glory
Male Version of the name:
Yaroslav
Alternative spelling:
Yara
Variations in other languages:
Jarosława (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Yaroslava Shvedova is a tennis player who was born in Russia and represents Kazakhstan.
Interesting Fact:
The name appeared in Kievan Rus before the era of Christianity.
55. Zoryana
Original:
Зоряна
How to pronounce:
zoh-RYAH-nah
Origin:
Ancient Slavic
Meaning:
Stellar, dawn
Alternative spelling:
Zorya
Interesting Fact:
The name Aurora is close in meaning.
Short Russian Female Names
Looking for a beautiful but short Russian name for your baby girl? Check out the next list!
56. Dina
Original:
Дина
How to pronounce:
DEE-nah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew דינה
Meaning:
Justice, retribution, judge
Alternative spelling:
Madina
Famous Persons:
Dina Rubina is a famous Russian-Israel writer.
Interesting Fact:
It is thought that the name could have come to Russia from the Arabic language with the meaning “faith, religion”.
57. Eva
Original:
Ева
How to pronounce:
YEH-vah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew חוה
Meaning:
Giving life
Variations in other languages:
Eve/ Ava (English), Ewa (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Eva Polna is a Russian singer, composer, and songwriter.
Interesting Fact:
Eva was the first woman on earth in abrahamic religions. Mother of all people.
58. Inga
Original:
Инга
How to pronounce:
EEN-nah
Origin:
Old Scandinavian (or Old German)Ing/ Yng
Meaning:
Protected by Yngwie (Freyr). Is the Old German god of fertility.
Alternative spelling:
Ingrid, Ingeborga
Famous Persons:
Ingeborga Dapkunaite is a famous Lithuanian-Russian and British theatre and cinema actress.
Interesting Fact:
There are male counterparts of this name: Ingvar and Ingolf. But the female version has become popular in Russia.
59. Iya
Original:
Ия
How to pronounce:
EEH-yah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἰάς
Meaning:
Violet A resident of Ionia
Famous Persons:
Iya Arepina is a Soviet and Russian actress.
Interesting Fact:
The shortest female name in Russia (only two letters).
60. Kira
Original:
Кира
How to pronounce:
KEE-rah
Origin:
Ancient Greek κύριοςAncient Persian (Modern Persian کوروش بزرگ)
Meaning:
LordSun
Male Version of the name:
Kir
Variations in other languages:
Kirah/ Kyra (English), Cira/ Ciretta (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Kira Muratova was a Soviet and Ukrainian film director, screenwriter, and actress.
Interesting Fact:
The name is associated with the Persian royal name Cyrus.
61. Maya
Original:
Майя
How to pronounce:
MIGH-yah
Origin:
Ancient Greek ΜαϊαAncient Hebrew מים
Meaning:
Good motherWater
Famous Persons:
Maya Plisetskaya was a famous Soviet and Russian ballet dancer, choreographer and ballet director.
Interesting Fact:
In Greek and Roman mythology, Maya is the goddess and daughter of the titan Atlanta. The month of May was named in her honor.
62. Nelya
Original:
Неля
How to pronounce:
NEH-lya
Origin:
Old English, form of name Eleonor
Meaning:
Mercy, compassion
Alternative spelling:
Nelli, Neli
Variations in other languages:
Nelly (English)
Famous Persons:
Nelli Uvarova is a famous Russian actress.
63. Nonna
Original:
Нонна
How to pronounce:
NO-nah
Origin:
Latin Nonus
Meaning:
The ninth
Famous Persons:
Nonna Grishaeva is a famous Soviet and Russian actress.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the name comes from another Latin word, “nonnus”, which means “monk”.
64. Rimma
Original:
Римма
How to pronounce:
REEH-mah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ριμμᾶς
Meaning:
Roman
Alternative spelling:
Rima, Mura
Famous Persons:
Rima Shershnyova is a Soviet woman partisan.
Interesting Fact:
The name Rimma was originally masculine and came from the name of the city of Rome.
65. Yana
Original:
Яна
How to pronounce:
YAH-nah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew יוחנה
Meaning:
Grace of God
Male Version of the name:
Yan
Alternative spelling:
Yanochka
Variations in other languages:
Jean/ Joan (English), Giovanna (Italian)
Famous Persons:
Yana Rudkovskaya is a famous Russian music producer.
66. Zhanna
Original:
Жанна
How to pronounce:
ZHAHN-nah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew יוֹחָנָן
Meaning:
Grace of God
Alternative spelling:
Zhannochka
Variations in other languages:
Joanna/ Joan (English)
Famous Persons:
Joan of Arc (Jehanne d’Arc) was a national heroine of France.
Interesting Fact:
In Russian, the name came from the Old French name Jehanne [17]
67. Zoya
Original:
Зоя
How to pronounce:
ZO-yah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ζωή
Meaning:
Life
Alternative spelling:
Zosya, Zoyka
Variations in other languages:
Zoe/ Zoey (English), Zoé (French)
Famous Persons:
Zoya Kosmodemyanskaya was a Soviet female partisan.
Interesting Fact:
The name Zoe is believed to be the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew name Eve.
Rare Russian Girl Names
If you have a baby girl on the way, and are looking for a rare Russian baby name, there are a lot of options to choose from. To help you in this decision-making process, we have put together a list of some lovely and beautiful rare baby girl names.
68. Alevtina
Original:
Алевтина
How to pronounce:
ah-lev-TEEH-nah
Origin:
Ancient GreekAleuō
Meaning:
Reflective, bouncer
Alternative spelling:
Tina, Alya
Famous Persons:
Alevtina Rumyantseva was a Soviet and Russian actress.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the name Alevtina is a variant of the name Valentine.
69. Albina
Original:
Альбина
How to pronounce:
ahl’-BEE-nah
Origin:
Latin Albus
Meaning:
White
Alternative spelling:
Alya
Variations in other languages:
Albi (French), Albino (Czech)
Famous Persons:
Albina Makunaite was a Soviet and Lithuanian graphic artist.
Interesting Fact:
The name appeared as a paired male name Albin, but it was the female version that spread in Russia (and the CIS).
70. Angelina
Original:
Ангелина
How to pronounce:
ahn-gye-LEE-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀγγελίνα
Meaning:
Messenger; angel
Alternative spelling:
Lina, Angelina
Famous Persons:
Angelina Stepanova was a famous Soviet and Russian stage and film actress.
71. Anzhelika
Original:
Анжелика
How to pronounce:
ahn-zhe-LEE-kah
Origin:
Latin Angelicus
Meaning:
Angel
Alternative spelling:
Lika
Variations in other languages:
Angelica (English), Angélique (French)
Famous Persons:
Anzhelika Varum is a famous Russian singer.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that this is one of the variants of the name Angelina, which has become an independent name.
72. Anzhela
Original:
Анжела
How to pronounce:
ahn-ZHE-lah
Origin:
Ancient Greek ἄγγελος
Meaning:
Messenger
Alternative spelling:
Angela
Interesting Fact:
One of the forms of the name Angelina. This form of the name came to the Russian language from the Bulgarian.
73. Anfisa
Original:
Анфиса
How to pronounce:
an-FEE-sah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἀνθοῦσα
Meaning:
Blooming
Alternative spelling:
Fisa
Famous Persons:
Anfisa Chekhova is a famous Russian tele- and radio-presenter.
Interesting Fact:
The name is common among the peoples of the North Caucasus.
74. Diana
Original:
Диана
How to pronounce:
dee-AH-na
Origin:
Latin Deus
Meaning:
God
Alternative spelling:
Dianka
Famous Persons:
Diana, Princess of Wales (Diana Spencer), was a member of the British royal family.
Interesting Fact:
In ancient Roman mythology, Diana was the goddess of the moon and the hunt. The name is widespread and popular in many countries of Europe and the East.
Dominika Cibulkova is a famous Slovak former professional tennis player.
Interesting Fact:
Latin dominicus comes from the phrase “dies dominicus”, which means “the day of God”, that is, Sunday (for Catholics). Therefore, the name can still be interpreted as “born on Sunday”.
76. Elvira
Original:
Эльвира
How to pronounce:
ehl-VEE-rah
Origin:
Old GermanSpanish
Meaning:
Foreign or true
Alternative spelling:
Elya
Famous Persons:
Elvira Maslova is a famous Soviet and Russian animation artist.
Interesting Fact:
This name is most common in the countries of Latin America.
77. Emiliya
Original:
Эмилия
How to pronounce:
eh-MEE-lee-yah
Origin:
LatinAemilia
Meaning:
Rival
Male Version of the name:
Emil’
Alternative spelling:
Emma, Mila
Variations in other languages:
Emily (English)
Famous Persons:
Emiliya (Emily) Shanks was a British and Russian painter. She was the first woman to be elected to the Russian Society for Travelling Art Exhibitions or Peredvizhniki.
78. Faina
Original:
Фаина
How to pronounce:
fah-EE-nah
Origin:
Ancient Greek φαεινή
Meaning:
Shining, shiny
Alternative spelling:
Faya
Famous Persons:
Faina Ranevskaya is one of the greatest Soviet Russian actresses.
79. Inessa
Original:
Инесса
How to pronounce:
ee-NEH-sa
Origin:
Ancient Greek Ἁγνή
Meaning:
Pure, immaculate, innocent
Alternative spelling:
Agnes, Ines
Variations in other languages:
Inès (French, Spanish)
Famous Persons:
Inessa Armand was a famous French-Russian communist politician, member of the Bolsheviks and a feminist.
Interesting Fact:
It is believed that the name came to the USSR from Spain (after 1936). Before that, it was almost never seen in the territory of Russia.
80. Klara
Original:
Клара
How to pronounce:
KLAH-nah
Origin:
Latin Clara
Meaning:
Light, clean, transparent
Variations in other languages:
Claire (English, French)
Famous Persons:
Klara Novikova is a famous Russian comedian and pop artist.
81. Karolina
Original:
Каролина
How to pronounce:
kah-ro-LEE-nah
Origin:
Old German
Meaning:
HumanQueen
Male Version of the name:
Karl
Alternative spelling:
Kara
Variations in other languages:
Carolina (English), Caroline (French)
Famous Persons:
Karolina Pavlova was a Russian poet and novelist.
Interesting Fact:
The name appeared paired with the masculine Karl, whose original meaning was “man”. The meaning of “king” appeared after the reign of Charlemagne.
82. Paulina
Original:
Паулина
How to pronounce:
pah-u-LEE-nah
Origin:
Latin Paulinus
Meaning:
Small; humble
Male Version of the name:
Pavel
Alternative spelling:
Pavlina, Pavla, Paula
Famous Persons:
Paulina Andreeva is a famous Russian actress.
83. Raisa
Original:
Раиса
How to pronounce:
rah-EE-sah
Origin:
Ancient Greek
Meaning:
The hero’s daughters
Alternative spelling:
Raya
Famous Persons:
Raisa Florenskaya is a Russian artist.
Interesting Fact:
Abbreviated form of the Greek name Iraida.
84. Regina
Original:
Регина
How to pronounce:
ryeh-GEE-nah
Origin:
Latin Regina
Meaning:
The Queen , the ruler
Famous Persons:
Regina Todorenko is a famous Ukrainian and Russian TV presenter.
85. Renata
Original:
Рената
How to pronounce:
ryeh-NAH-tah
Origin:
LatinRenatus
Meaning:
Reborn, born again
Male Version of the name:
Renat
Alternative spelling:
Rena, Rina
Famous Persons:
Renata Litvinova is a famous Soviet and Russian actress, screenwriter and film director.
Interesting Fact:
It is thought that the names Renata and Renat in the USSR were formed by adding the beginning of three words: Revolution (РЕволюция) + Science (НАука) + Labor (Труд).
86. Ruslana
Original:
Руслана
How to pronounce:
rooh-SLAH-nah
Origin:
Turkic Arslan
Meaning:
Lion
Male Version of the name:
Ruslan
Alternative spelling:
Lana
Famous Persons:
Ruslana (Lyzhychko) is a famous Ukrainian singer.
87. Ulyana
Original:
Ульяна
How to pronounce:
oo-LYAH-nah
Origin:
Latin Julianus
Meaning:
Belonging to July
Male Version of the name:
Ulyan
Alternative spelling:
Ulya, Uliana
Famous Persons:
Uliana Sergeenko is a famous Russian fashion designer.
Interesting Fact:
The name Ulyana is related to the name Julia.
Unique Old Slavic Russian Names For Girls
By giving your daughter a rare name, you can highlight certain features that you imagine your child will have when she grows up. These names are usually beautiful, majestic, and melodic. In Russia, it is now fashionable to give your children Old Slavic names.
Fyokla Tolstaya is a famous Russian journalist and TV presenter. Great-great-granddaughter of Lev Tolstoy.
92. Klavdiya
Original:
Клавдия
How to pronounce:
KLAHV-dee-ya
Origin:
Latin Claudius
Meaning:
Lame
Male Version of the name:
Klavdy
Alternative spelling:
Klava
Variations in other languages:
Claudia (English)
Famous Persons:
Claudia Shiffer is a German model and actress based in the United Kingdom.
Interesting Fact:
The name is one of the epithets of the Roman god Vulcan, who was lame.
93. Malvina
Original:
Мальвина
How to pronounce:
mahl-VEE-nah
Origin:
Old German mālv’/melvinLatin Malva
Meaning:
Weak, tenderThe name of the plant is Mallow
Variations in other languages:
Malvie (English), Malwiene (German)
Famous Persons:
Malvina Shvidler is a Soviet and Ukrainian actress.
94. Pelageya
Original:
Пелагея
How to pronounce:
peh-lah-GE-yah
Origin:
Ancient Greek πέλαγος
Meaning:
A sea
Alternative spelling:
Gelya
Variations in other languages:
Pélagie (French)
Famous Persons:
Pelageya (Polina) Telegina is a famous Russian singer.
95. Praskovya
Original:
Прасковья
How to pronounce:
prah-SKOH-vya
Origin:
Ancient Greek παρασκευή
Meaning:
Holiday eve
Alternative spelling:
Pronya
Variations in other languages:
Praskewia (English), Paraska (Ukrainian)
Famous Persons:
Praskovya Uvarova was a Russian archeologist.
Interesting Fact:
Russian version of the Greek name Paraskeva.
96. Serafima
Original:
Серафима
How to pronounce:
sye-rah-FEE-mah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew שְׂרָפִים
Meaning:
Fiery
Male Version of the name:
Serafim
Alternative spelling:
Fima, Sima
Famous Persons:
Serafima Bazhina was a Russian writer.
97. Ursula
Original:
Урсула
How to pronounce:
oohr-SOO-lah
Origin:
LatinUrsula
Meaning:
Bear
Alternative spelling:
Ursulina
Variations in other languages:
Urszula (Polish)
Famous Persons:
Ursula le Guin is a famous American writer.
Interesting Fact:
The name came to Russia from Europe.
98. Varvara
Original:
Варвара
How to pronounce:
vahr-VAHR-rah
Origin:
Ancient Greek βάρβαρος
Meaning:
Foreign woman
Alternative spelling:
Varya
Variations in other languages:
Barbara (English).
Famous Persons:
Varvara Annenkova was a prominent Russian poet
Interesting Fact:
The name Barbie is an abbreviated version of the name Barbara, which is related to the Russian name Varvara.
99. Vasilisa
Original:
Василиса
How to pronounce:
vah-see-LEE-sah
Origin:
Ancient Greek Βασίλισσα
Meaning:
Regal
Male Version of the name:
Vasily
Alternative spelling:
Vasya, Vasilina
Interesting Fact:
The name Vasilisa is one of the most common names in Russian folk tales.
100. Zlata
Original:
Злата
How to pronounce:
ZLAH-tah
Origin:
Ancient Hebrew זלאַטע
Meaning:
Gold
Alternative spelling:
Zlatka
Bottom Line
Russian names are fascinating and beautiful, imbued with layers of meaning. We gathered for you 200 of the most popular, rare, traditional and unique names for boys and girls in our article. Hopefully, you found the name you were looking for for your little one!
