Russian Names

The once super-popular Karen has gotten a bad name of late. Is Karine different enough to survive? Perhaps, though it may take a generation or two for a real comeback.

One of the many international variations of the classic Helen.

This common Russian name has a somewhat effete pencil-thin-moustached image here.

Arkadina was thrust into the limelight as one of the (many) middle names of Uma Thurman and Arpad Busson's little girl. The Slavic or Russian feminine form of Arkady, which is derived from the ancient Greek name Arkadios, is the equivalent of the English Arcadia -- a heavenly place. For most English speakers, the Arcadia form would be more compatible.

Fedora is occasionally heard among the British Mayfair and Belgravia set, but we're afraid that in this country there would be too strong an association with the man's felt hat.

Annik is a pleasing combination of unusual and familiar. As first Ann and now Anna become overused, you might want to explore its wilder variations such as this Eastern European short form.