Like matryoshka dolls, Russian female names reveal layers of history, faith, and literary grandeur. Classic beauties like Anastasia (resurrection) share space with Soviet-era innovations (Oktyabrina - October revolution). Our guide presents 100+ luminous options, from Pushkin-inspired (Tatiana) to Orthodox staples (Ekaterina), complete with Cyrillic spellings and diminutives. Learn how naming traditions evolved from Slavic roots to Christian imports, why certain nicknames dominate (Masha for Maria), and which names work internationally (Sofia) versus those distinctly Russian (Svetlana). Discover the charm of patronymic middle names, the resurgence of prerevolutionary names (Agafya), and how Russian émigrés adapted names (Irina became Irene). Whether drawn to tsarina grandeur, intelligentsia classics, or modern shortenings (Polina), these names capture Russia's soul—where European formality meets Slavic warmth.
🎁 Match Your Baby’s Name with Their Birthstone
Every baby’s name holds a story—and so does their birthstone. Discover the perfect gemstone to match your baby's birth month, energy, and name style:
1. Anastasia
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Resurrection”
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Description:
Anastasia is a name born from legend and rebirth. Once carried by royals and saints, it holds timeless beauty and strength. A girl named Anastasia often exudes grace, curiosity, and inner power. Her presence feels like something once lost now found again. She reminds us that no matter how long the night lasts—there is always something inside us that rises again.
2. Ekaterina
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Origin: Russian form of the Greek “Katherine”
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Meaning: “Pure”
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Description:
Ekaterina is regal serenity. Elegant yet unshakable, her name conjures visions of snow-covered palaces, deep thought, and quiet fire. A modern Ekaterina may be intuitive, artistic, or inwardly fierce. She teaches us that purity is not perfection—it’s living with intention and integrity, no matter the storm.
3. Daria
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Origin: Persian via Russian
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Meaning: “Queenly,” “Wealthy,” “Upholder of good”
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Description:
Daria is rich in more than gold—she is abundant in soul. Grounded, clever, and magnetic, a Daria often moves through life with a mix of wit and warmth. Her energy is royal, but never distant. She reminds us that true wealth is the capacity to give love, knowledge, and laughter without measure.
4. Natalia
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Origin: Latin via Russian
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Meaning: “Born on Christmas Day”
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Description:
Natalia is sacred joy. Her name carries celebration, grace, and quiet radiance. A Natalia often brings comfort in chaos, warmth in winter, and light wherever she goes. She teaches us that magic doesn’t have to be loud—sometimes, it arrives wrapped in stillness, like snow falling on holy ground.
5. Irina
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Peace”
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Description:
Irina is harmony in human form. Cool, calm, and deeply composed, she’s the kind of soul who knows how to hold a room with silence. A natural mediator, healer, or truth-seeker, Irina reminds us that peace is not passive—it’s an active choice to stand still when the world wants to spin.
6. Marina
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Origin: Latin via Russian
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Meaning: “Of the sea”
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Description:
Marina is ocean soul. She holds depth, mystery, and ever-changing grace. A Marina may be emotionally intuitive, creative, or drawn to watery places. Her moods are tides, and her strength is in her ability to flow. She teaches that like the sea, we can be soft, strong, still, and storm—all at once.
7. Galina
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Calm,” “Serenity”
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Description:
Galina is serenity that walks. Her name flows like a lullaby—gentle, soothing, and protective. A Galina often brings steadiness to uncertain moments, reminding others how to breathe deeply. She teaches us that calm is not the absence of movement—it’s being so rooted in truth that chaos cannot move you.
8. Yelena (also spelled Elena)
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Torch,” “Bright one”
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Description:
Yelena is radiant and brave. A light-bearer in every sense, she may be drawn to education, art, or leadership. Her presence often feels like fire in a cold room—not overwhelming, but necessary. She reminds us that to be bright is not vanity—it’s a responsibility to illuminate without burning.
9. Oksana
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Origin: Ukrainian/Russian
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Meaning: “Hospitality,” “Praise be to God”
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Description:
Oksana is the open door. Welcoming, warm, and deeply generous, she’s the kind of woman who makes everyone feel like they belong. A natural nurturer or artist, Oksana teaches that kindness is not weakness—it’s the most powerful form of strength, because it chooses love again and again.
10. Svetlana
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Light,” “Pure one”
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Description:
Svetlana is starlight incarnate. Her name shines through darkness, soft yet unwavering. Often spiritual, reflective, or quietly joyful, a Svetlana brings clarity and comfort wherever she appears. She reminds us that light is not always fire—it’s the soft glow that never leaves, even in the longest winter.
Baby Names A–Z
11. Alina
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Origin: Slavic and Greek influences
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Meaning: “Bright,” “Beautiful,” or “Noble”
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Description:
Alina is the glint of moonlight on fresh snow. Her presence is soft yet unforgettable, marked by poise and silent strength. An Alina often holds a balance between tenderness and boldness, a natural dancer between worlds. She reminds us that elegance is not an act—it’s the way the soul moves when it feels safe to shine.
12. Ksenia
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Hospitable,” “Stranger’s welcome”
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Description:
Ksenia is the guardian of thresholds. Mysterious yet inviting, her spirit carries a deep openness to others. She may be drawn to diplomacy, psychology, or healing. A Ksenia teaches us that real warmth doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from meeting the unfamiliar with grace.
13. Varvara
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Foreign,” “Wanderer”
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Description:
Varvara is wild elegance. Untamed in heart, grounded in values, she dances between tradition and rebellion. A Varvara might be drawn to the arts, storytelling, or nature. She reminds us that beauty isn’t always polished—it’s raw, curious, and alive with possibility.
14. Polina
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Origin: Russian, diminutive of Apollinaria (from Apollo)
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Meaning: “Little sun,” “Of Apollo”
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Description:
Polina is warmth in human form. Her name carries golden joy, subtle radiance, and deep creativity. A Polina is the kind of soul who lights others up just by being herself. She teaches us that brightness doesn’t have to be loud—it can be a quiet sunrise blooming across someone’s heart.
15. Mila
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Gracious,” “Dear,” “Beloved”
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Description:
Mila is love made simple. Her energy is tender, caring, and effortlessly sweet. A Mila may be drawn to caregiving, beauty, or emotional healing. She teaches us that being “dear” is not about being small—it’s about being loved in the kind of way that changes people forever.
16. Vasilisa
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Queen,” “Royal woman”
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Description:
Vasilisa is storybook sovereignty. Often found in Russian folktales, she represents courage wrapped in grace. A Vasilisa is intuitive, wise beyond her years, and spiritually radiant. She teaches us that being royal doesn’t mean being perfect—it means leading from your inner knowing, no matter how strange the journey.
17. Tatiana
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Origin: Roman via Russian
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Meaning: “Fairy queen,” or “Organizer”
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Description:
Tatiana is commanding softness. There’s poetry in her presence and power in her calm. A Tatiana may be artistic, diplomatic, or quietly passionate. She reminds us that feminine strength is not chaos—it’s a structured soul that creates beauty wherever it’s planted.
18. Zoya
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Life”
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Description:
Zoya is the fire of existence. Bold, joyful, and full of spark, she lives with intention and vibrancy. A Zoya often dances through life with a mix of rebellion and reverence. She teaches us that life is not something we survive—it’s something we are meant to ignite and fully feel.
19. Lidiya (Lydia)
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Woman from Lydia,” often tied to nobility or beauty
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Description:
Lidiya is ancient elegance. Her name carries the scent of old parchment and regal perfume. Often introspective, intuitive, and refined, a Lidiya teaches us that class isn’t about status—it’s about the way you hold your voice, your silence, and your legacy.
20. Raisa
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Origin: Hebrew and Russian roots
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Meaning: “Rose,” “Easy-going,” or “Leader”
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Description:
Raisa is soft command. Her energy is refined, gentle, and quietly powerful—like a rose blooming in frost. She may lead without intention, simply through her presence. She teaches us that to lead is not to demand—it’s to stand in grace until the world rises to meet you.
21. Evgenia
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Well-born,” “Noble spirit”
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Description:
Evgenia is radiant heritage. She is the daughter of integrity, the voice of calm authority, the presence that reassures. A modern Evgenia may love tradition but move with modern grace. She reminds us that nobility doesn’t come from title—it comes from how you carry your name through the world.
22. Inna
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Origin: Russian
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Meaning: “Strong water,” associated with an early saint
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Description:
Inna is the river that doesn’t stop. Resilient, steady, and quietly fierce, her energy can wear down walls over time. She may be drawn to change, advocacy, or healing. She teaches that gentleness and persistence can live in the same spirit—and that water always finds a way.
23. Ludmila
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Loved by the people”
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Description:
Ludmila is beloved legacy. A name carried by saints and storytellers, it holds both charisma and compassion. A Ludmila doesn’t chase attention—she attracts connection. She teaches us that being loved is not about being loud—it’s about being true, consistent, and soulfully generous.
24. Yulia (Julia)
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Origin: Latin via Russian
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Meaning: “Youthful,” “Soft-haired,” “Downy”
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Description:
Yulia is eternal spring. Her energy feels like green things blooming, laughter returning, love beginning again. She may be curious, bright, and light-hearted with depth underneath. She teaches us that to stay youthful is not to avoid aging—it’s to keep blooming in spirit no matter the years.
25. Nadezhda
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Hope”
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Description:
Nadezhda is the flicker that never dies. Her name feels like candlelight in crisis, like dawn after long prayer. A Nadezhda holds on for others, often without being asked. She teaches us that hope is not a wish—it’s the soul’s way of saying, “Not yet. I still believe.”
26. Luba (Lyuba)
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Love”
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Description:
Luba is heart-medicine. She doesn’t just give love—she becomes it. Kind, patient, and emotionally rich, a Luba often makes others feel safe and seen. She teaches us that love is not something we earn—it’s what we remember when we return to our soul.
27. Feodora
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “God’s gift”
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Description:
Feodora is sacred offering. Her energy is rare, regal, and quietly awe-inspiring. A Feodora often walks with spiritual insight, grace, and dignity. She teaches us that to be a gift is not about ego—it’s about allowing your presence to soften and awaken others.
28. Alyona
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Origin: Russian diminutive, related to Elena
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Meaning: “Shining light,” “Torch”
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Description:
Alyona is flickering joy. Her name carries a brightness that feels playful, pure, and personal. A modern Alyona often moves between laughter and insight with ease. She reminds us that even a small flame can light up the darkest space if held with love.
29. Rada
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Joy,” “Counsel”
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Description:
Rada is clarity in delight. Wise, bright, and emotionally intuitive, she brings joy with substance. A Rada may be a guide, therapist, or artist. She teaches us that joy isn’t frivolous—it’s a tool of the soul to heal and connect others with light.
30. Zinaida
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Of Zeus,” “Divine”
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Description:
Zinaida is myth woven into elegance. Regal, confident, and often ethereal, she brings a sense of sacred authority. A Zinaida may lead with compassion or challenge with truth. She teaches us that divinity isn’t distant—it lives in every woman who remembers her worth.
31. Vera
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Faith,” “Belief,” “Truth”
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Description:
Vera is the steady heartbeat of belief. Calm, loyal, and deeply rooted in trust, she embodies devotion to something greater—whether love, family, or purpose. A Vera may not speak often, but when she does, it feels like a sacred vow. She teaches that faith isn’t blind—it’s the quiet decision to keep holding on, even when no one else does.
32. Nina
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Origin: Multiple roots (Slavic, Assyrian, Spanish)
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Meaning: “Dream,” “Little girl,” or “Strong”
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Description:
Nina is soul simplicity. There’s something deeply ancient in her name, yet she moves with modern grace. A Nina may be creative, nurturing, or emotionally intuitive. She reminds us that gentleness doesn’t mean smallness—it means moving through life like poetry, one breath at a time.
33. Olya (Olga)
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Origin: Old Norse via Russian
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Meaning: “Holy,” “Blessed”
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Description:
Olya is sacred sovereignty. Her name holds both strength and stillness—like a cathedral built from snow and fire. A woman named Olya often has a wise, protective presence. She teaches us that holiness is not about perfection—it’s about choosing to live with grace in a world that forgets it.
34. Anfisa
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Flower,” “Blooming one”
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Description:
Anfisa is a quiet garden. She is elegance unfolding, beauty that does not ask to be noticed. A natural romantic or creator, Anfisa often embodies gentle charm and artistic sensibility. She teaches that to bloom doesn’t require an audience—it only requires sunlight and trust in your own timing.
35. Lilia
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Origin: Latin/Russian
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Meaning: “Lily flower”
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Description:
Lilia is pure radiance. Associated with rebirth and softness, her name evokes delicacy with deep roots. A Lilia may be spiritually attuned, deeply emotional, or protective of what’s sacred. She reminds us that beauty isn’t fragile—it’s resilient in a language only nature understands.
36. Yuliana
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Origin: Latin via Russian
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Meaning: “Youthful,” “Energetic”
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Description:
Yuliana is spring in motion. Full of light, laughter, and warmth, she carries an uplifting presence wherever she goes. A Yuliana is often drawn to connection, community, or storytelling. She reminds us that youth is not an age—it’s a way of being open to life, no matter what’s behind you.
37. Zlata
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Golden”
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Description:
Zlata is sunlight in human form. Bright, generous, and deeply loved, she often brings joy and clarity to those around her. A Zlata shines in her authenticity—not because she tries, but because she simply is. She teaches us that we don’t need to become golden—we already are.
38. Marina
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Origin: Latin via Russian
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Meaning: “Of the sea”
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Description:
Marina is depth and motion. Repeated for its beauty, this name speaks of soul that can reflect or rage—stillness and surge in one spirit. A Marina flows where she’s meant to go, often intuitive, romantic, and perceptive. She reminds us that water doesn’t need to force—it shapes the world through its patience.
39. Elizaveta
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Origin: Hebrew via Russian
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Meaning: “God is my oath”
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Description:
Elizaveta is promise made royal. Formal and radiant, her name carries legacy and vision. A modern Elizaveta may lead without ever raising her voice, commanding respect through compassion. She teaches that devotion is not duty—it’s choosing to honor your truth like a crown you were born to wear.
40. Katya (short for Ekaterina)
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Origin: Russian
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Meaning: “Pure”
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Description:
Katya is playful grace. She’s the light version of a deeper soul, the sunlight of a snowy lineage. Often creative, curious, or empathetic, Katya reminds us that even in a world of complexity, purity can still be lightness, laughter, and honest love.
41. Varya
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Origin: Russian diminutive of Varvara
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Meaning: “Stranger,” “Wild woman”
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Description:
Varya is untamed softness. She walks between wildness and warmth, often choosing intuition over instruction. A Varya may love books, wind, or wandering thoughts. She reminds us that to be different is not to be lost—it’s to be uniquely aligned with your own truth.
42. Agnessa
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Chaste,” “Holy,” “Graceful”
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Description:
Agnessa is quiet divinity. A name that feels wrapped in white silk and old prayer. An Agnessa may carry healing hands, ancestral memory, or sacred presence. She teaches us that purity is not about rules—it’s about how purely you live in service to your spirit.
43. Irisha (diminutive of Irina)
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Origin: Russian
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Meaning: “Peace”
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Description:
Irisha is soft peace, childlike and eternal. Her name feels like a whispered lullaby or a gentle hand on the shoulder. An Irisha often brings comfort to those who don’t know how to ask for it. She reminds us that healing doesn’t always come through words—it often comes through being held.
44. Olenka (diminutive of Olga)
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Origin: Russian
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Meaning: “Holy,” “Little sacred one”
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Description:
Olenka is sacred in smallness. Her name holds innocence, grace, and the joy of being fully present. She may love tradition, family, or inner ritual. Olenka reminds us that every soul deserves reverence—especially the ones who move through life gently.
45. Evdokia
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Good will,” “Divine favor”
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Description:
Evdokia is divine alignment. Her name speaks of being chosen, of favor that flows without needing to be earned. A deeply spiritual name, it carries reverence and grace. She teaches us that favor is not about luck—it’s what happens when the soul follows truth with full devotion.
46. Aleksandra
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Origin: Greek via Russian
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Meaning: “Defender of humanity”
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Description:
Aleksandra is graceful power. She holds others without being consumed, fights with compassion, and lives with purpose. A born leader or silent guide, she teaches us that strength is not about force—it’s about standing between others and harm with your heart wide open.
47. Viera
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Faith”
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Description:
Viera is the name of knowing without proof. She walks by intuition, sees through illusion, and holds space when no one else does. A Viera may be spiritual, poetic, or emotionally anchored. She reminds us that faith isn’t just for hard times—it’s a daily practice of choosing soul over fear.
48. Tamara
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Origin: Hebrew via Russian
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Meaning: “Date palm,” “Life-giving tree”
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Description:
Tamara is sacred nourishment. She gives life through presence, wisdom, and steadiness. A Tamara is the kind of person who makes things grow—ideas, people, peace. She teaches us that to nurture is not to be passive—it’s a form of active, sacred power that roots others in safety.
49. Milena
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Origin: Slavic
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Meaning: “Gracious,” “Loving,” “Warm”
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Description:
Milena is the soul you lean into. Her energy is soft, reassuring, and full of compassion. A Milena may be a listener, an artist, or the friend who always remembers. She teaches us that being gracious is not weak—it’s the strongest choice in a world that’s forgotten gentleness.
50. Sonya
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Origin: Russian diminutive of Sophia
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Meaning: “Wisdom”
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Description:
Sonya is soft wisdom. She’s the knowing that doesn’t need to explain itself, the intuition that moves before thought. A Sonya often sees through veils and offers truth wrapped in kindness. She teaches us that wisdom isn’t only for the old—it belongs to anyone who listens deeply and loves fully.
