Eastern European Names

A short form of the very popular Polish name Jan, which is the equivalent of John in English. Short forms ending in -ek are very widespread in Poland, but it is rare that one is given as the official birth certificate name.

To some, may have the same warm feeling of Russian nicknames like Sasha and Misha.

German, Scandinavian and Polish spelling of Konrad, borne by several German and Polish rulers throughout history, as well as the German chancellor Konrad Adenauer.

Makes the intriguing Olga even more so.

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.

Variant spelling of Camila, common in Eastern Europe. Kamila and Kamilah are also feminine forms of the Arabic name Kamil, meaning "perfect".

Its association with the word liebe gives this name an endearing, adored aura.

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

Ferenc is well used in Hungary, where it has the intriguing nickname Ferko, it has been associated with the playwright Molnar.

Plausible name for parents with Slavic roots, known as the wife of Alexander the Great.

Mala is one of those names that's both simple and exotic, easy to pronounce yet unfamiliar to many English speakers.

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.

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

This spelling variation of the Biblical place-name Sela is found on early American census roles, but Sela is more usual today. Cella is another early variation.