Russian Names

Tatyana, an alternate spelling of the lovely Tatiana, definitely has its followers.

Nadya and Nadia are Eastern European short forms -- for the more difficult Nadezhda -- now fully accepted on their own.

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.

Kenya, a name borrowed from the East African nation and theoretically unisex, is now used mostly for girls. While it's had its ups and downs since entering the US Top 1000 in 1968, it currently ranks lower than spelling variant Kenia.

An interesting and appealingly international spin on Barbara, with a lot of charm and energy.

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

Adds some zest to Rosa.

Panya is a multicultural possibility with a sound that's pleasing to the English-speaking ear, though the Swahili translation, which might also be "rat," makes it less than savory as an African name.

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

Zenovia makes Zenobia even more unusual. This mythology-adjacent name is worth a look.

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

See TALIA.

Tanya with a G.

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