Slavic Names

This international variation was publicized by Olympic skater Ekaterina Gordeeva.

If it's possible for a name to be too musical, this one is.

Remember Zuzu, the adorable little girl you watch every Christmas in "It's a Wonderful Life"? Here's a direct path to that nickname, a lot more zesty than the more familiar Susannah.

Fanya might make an international and unusual short form for the classic Frances, or could stand as a full name on its own. Definitely classier than Tanya but with the same Eastern European flavor.

Michal may be one of several Eastern European forms of Michael, though there is a biblical Michal who is female, the daughter of Saul and wife of David.

This version is a bit more in tune with modern tastes.

In Eastern Europe, more fashionable these days than Vladimir.

Attractive attenuated form of the popular Christopher, well used throughout Europe, appearing as Christophe in France and Christoph in Germany.

A Slavic variation of Helen that might make an unusual update of that classic name.

See ZOE.

The first bride on "Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire." -- not the classiest of names.

Like cousin Ludmila, a Russian name rarely heard in this country.

Lada is the Slavic goddess of youth, merriment, beauty and fertility, usually associated with spring. Her name is referenced in wedding and folk songs in Eastern Europe, but largely unknown in the West.

Feodora is an interesting choice for the intrepid name giver, especially with its dynamic nickname, Feo (pronounced FAY-oh).

Midcentury macramé-maker.