Russian Names that Start With M

  1. Mila
    • Origin:

      Slavic, Russian
    • Meaning:

      "gracious; dear"
    • Description:

      Mila is a popular name that took a 125 year nap, ranking in the Top 1000 in 1881 and then not ranking again until 2006, after actress Mila Kunis appeared on That 70s Show.
  2. Mika
    • Origin:

      Japanese, Slovene, Hebrew, English, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "beautiful fragrance; who is like God?; follower of Demeter"
    • Description:

      Mika is a sparky and stylish Japanese girls' name that translates easily to English. Also used as a Slovene and Hebrew diminutive for Mihaela and Michaela, as an alternative spelling to the Biblical Micah, and as a Greek diminutive of Dimitra (via Mimika), it is a truly multi-cultural choice.
  3. Misha
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Mikhail
    • Description:

      Brought into the American consciousness as the nickname of ballet great Mikhail Baryshnikov, it more recently took on a unisex air via TV and screen actress Mischa Barton. Could become the next Sasha.
  4. Makari
    • Origin:

      Russian, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "blessed, happy; I wish"
    • Description:

      To those unfamiliar with it, Makari might have the sound, feel, and look of a modern inventions, similar to Amari, Jakari, or Makai. It is however a Russian name, derived from the Greek Makarios. Borne by two 14th-century Orthodox Russian saints, Makari can also be transcribed as Makariy or Makary.
  5. Mikhail
    • Origin:

      Russian variation of Michael
    • Meaning:

      "who is like God"
    • Description:

      One of the most familiar Russian names in the West, thanks to ballet great Mikhail Baryshnikov and state head Mikhail Gorbachev.
  6. Misha
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Mikhail
    • Description:

      Misha was a boys' name with a soft feminine sound and vowel ending until actress Mischa Barton turned it to the girls' side. Now Misha, like Sasha, works as well in either spelling for girls and boys. Misha might be a way to update Michelle or Micaela.
  7. Melor
    • Origin:

      Celtic
    • Meaning:

      "iron man"
    • Description:

      Melor is the name of a Breton saint who in legend was also a prince, suggesting he was the son of a Cornish king (Mylor is the Cornish variation of the name). Melor was said to have a foot and hand made of silver,
  8. Mischa
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Mikhail
    • Description:

      This was a 100 percent boys' name till the willowy Mischa Barton of TV's "The OC" made it unisex, a la Sascha.
  9. Milya
    • Description:

      Milya is a feminine name with multicultural origins. In Slavic languages, particularly Russian, it derives from 'milyy' meaning 'sweet' or 'dear,' conveying warmth and affection. It may also be connected to names like Mila or Emilia. In some Arabic contexts, Milya can be related to 'maly' meaning 'financial' or 'wealthy.' The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and gentle ending. Milya remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name with international appeal. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contribute to its modern feel, while its various cultural connections give it depth and versatility across different heritage backgrounds.

  10. Mischa
    • Origin:

      Russian, diminutive of Mikhail
    • Description:

      Though the Mischa spelling is migrating toward the feminine side thanks to actress Mischa Barton, this Russian boys' short form still works for children of both sexes, as Mischa or Misha.
  11. Motka
    • Description:

      Motka is a masculine name with an exotic, distinctive quality. Its origins are somewhat obscure, potentially drawing from Eastern European, Native American, or other cultural traditions. The name has a strong, compact sound with its two syllables and bold consonants. Motka remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive character for those seeking uncommon names. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its unfamiliarity. Motka carries an impression of strength and resilience, possibly evoking connections to nature or ancient traditions depending on its specific cultural origins. For parents seeking a truly distinctive name that still has an approachable sound, Motka represents an intriguing possibility.

  12. Maksim
    • Description:

      Maksim is a masculine name of Slavic origin, representing the Eastern European form of Maximus, derived from Latin meaning 'greatest' or 'largest.' Particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other Slavic countries, Maksim carries connotations of greatness, achievement, and leadership. The name has historic connections to several saints and notable figures throughout Eastern European history. In recent decades, Maksim has gained some international recognition as cultural boundaries blur, though it retains its strong Slavic identity. The spelling with a 'k' rather than an 'x' reflects the Cyrillic alphabet's representation of the sound, giving the name an authentic Eastern European character while remaining accessible to English speakers.
  13. Marisha
    • Description:

      Marisha is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russian and Eastern European cultures. It developed as a diminutive form of Maria (Mary), carrying the same Hebrew roots meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved.' The name has a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining an exotic feel in Western countries. Marisha gained some recognition in the United States during the late 20th century as cultural boundaries expanded and Eastern European names became more familiar. The name strikes a balance between being recognizable and distinctive, with its melodic three-syllable pronunciation. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Marisha appeals to parents seeking a name with international flair that remains accessible to English speakers, combining the familiarity of Maria with a fresh, softer sound.

  14. Mitya
    • Description:

      Mitya is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning as a diminutive or nickname for Dmitri (also spelled Dmitry or Dimitri). The root name Dmitri derives from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning "follower of Demeter," the goddess of agriculture and fertility. Mitya carries a warm, affectionate quality while maintaining its Slavic heritage. In Russian literature, the name appears notably in Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" as the nickname for the character Dmitri. While uncommon outside of Russian-speaking regions, it offers an accessible yet distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Eastern European roots. The name conveys both strength and approachability, with its short, rhythmic sound pattern and rich cultural connections.

  15. Matvei
    • Description:

      Matvei is a masculine name of Russian origin, serving as the Russian form of Matthew, which derives from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of God.' This name has been used in Russia and other Slavic countries for centuries, particularly within Orthodox Christian communities. While traditionally uncommon outside Eastern Europe, Matvei has gained some international recognition in recent decades as global naming patterns have diversified. In Russia, it consistently ranks among moderately popular boys' names. Matvei offers a distinctive Slavic alternative to the more common Matthew, carrying the same meaningful etymology with a distinctive cultural character and pronunciation (mat-VYEY).
  16. Melanya
    • Description:

      Melanya is a feminine name with Slavic roots, though it can also be considered a variation of Melania. It derives from the Greek 'melania' meaning 'black' or 'dark,' though in contemporary usage this connection is rarely emphasized. Instead, the name is appreciated for its flowing, melodic quality and slightly exotic feel. Melanya has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality that appeals to parents seeking something both beautiful and unique. The name carries a sense of mystery and elegance, with the 'ya' ending adding a touch of Slavic charm that distinguishes it from more common variants like Melanie or Melania.

  17. Makar
    • Description:

      Makar is a masculine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It derives from the Greek name Makarios, meaning "blessed" or "happy." In Russian culture, the name has deep historical roots and appears in classic literature, including works by Dostoevsky. Makar has seen increased international recognition in recent decades as global naming patterns have expanded beyond traditional Western choices. In its native regions, the name is associated with strength, good fortune, and a certain rustic charm. The name's straightforward pronunciation (muh-KAR) and strong consonant sounds give it a distinct, masculine quality. While still uncommon in English-speaking countries, Makar appeals to parents seeking a name with authentic cultural roots and positive meaning.

  18. Mavriki
    • Description:

      Mavriki is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the ancient Roman name Mauritius, which means "dark-skinned" or "Moorish." In Russian tradition, it appears in historical contexts and Orthodox Christian heritage. The name Mavriki has remained relatively uncommon outside Russian-speaking regions and Eastern European communities. It carries a distinguished, somewhat exotic quality to Western ears while maintaining deep cultural roots. The name contains sounds that feel both strong and melodic, with its distinctive ending giving it a memorable quality. Mavriki might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and Slavic character that remains relatively unique in international settings.

  19. Marinochka
    • Description:

      Marinochka is a deeply affectionate Russian diminutive form of Marina, which derives from the Latin word 'marinus' meaning 'of the sea.' In Russian naming tradition, diminutives express tenderness and closeness, with the suffix '-ochka' indicating particular endearment. This elaborate form would typically be used by family members and close friends in intimate settings, not as a formal name. Marinochka carries the oceanic associations of its root name while adding a layer of warmth and familial love. While uncommon outside Russian-speaking communities, the name has a melodic, flowing quality that captures the musical nature of Slavic languages. Its distinctiveness in Western contexts makes it an unusual choice that nonetheless maintains connections to the more familiar Marina.
  20. Motya
    • Description:

      Motya is an unusual masculine name with possible origins in several cultures. It may be related to the ancient Phoenician site of Motya in Sicily, giving it historical significance. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive form of names like Matityahu (Matthew) in some Eastern European or Jewish traditions. The name has a distinctive rhythm with its two syllables and uncommon consonant-vowel pattern. Motya remains exceptionally rare in English-speaking countries, making it a truly unique choice. The name carries an exotic quality that might appeal to parents seeking something with cultural depth yet completely distinctive. Its brevity makes it practical, though its unfamiliarity may require occasional explanation or spelling clarification.