Russian Names for Boys

This form got noticed as the first name of long-reigning Russian president Brezhnev; other bearers include playwright and short-story writer Andreyev, Leonid the Magnificent,a Russian performance artist on America's Got Talent, and Leonid McGill, the protagonist of a Walter Mosley private eye series. All in all, though, Leonid is not the most likely to join the pride of lion-related names here.

Worldly, artistic and attractive Slavic version of the name of the Greek god of fertility and farming.

Sounds just like its meaning.

Vanya is much more familiar.

A bold and evocative African place name. The country of Kenya gets its name from Mount Kenya, referred to it as "Kirinyaga" or "Kerenyaga" by the local Kikuyu people, meaning "mountain of whiteness" due to its snow-capped peak.

Shorter, more palatable form of Vladimir, best known as the surname of French director Roger.

Russian form of Roderick given to a small number of American boys each year.

Naming your son Armen is like naming him Roman, or German -- it's the term that denotes a person of Armenian descent. Armen has been used as a first name for centuries and is an unusual yet approachable choice, especially if you want to honor your Armenian heritage.

Could be seen as an affectionate Old World take on Kole.

Appealing Daniel diminutive, similar to other Russian names like Vanya and Ilya.

This strong and commanding Russian name is pronounced ah-KEEM.

Vasily is one of many forms of the Greek Basil, all rare in the US.

An accessible Russian nickname...but could "cost ya".