Russian Names for Boys

Old saints' and popes' name that went to France in the 1920s with the Russian Ballets Russes; in its Russian form, Sergei, it retains an artistic, almost effete air.

In Europe, this name is mostly male, but here it's more fashionable for girls. It's a diminutive of Alexander.

The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.

This short form of Ivan just could join the other Russian nickname names coming into fashion, and it does have the Chekhov connection.

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,

Worldly, artistic and attractive Slavic version of the name of the Greek god of fertility and farming.

Well used in Russia, this is a distinctive and undiscovered choice here. Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov is the fictional protagonist of Crime and Punishment by Feodor Dostoyevsky.

For jet-setting parents or those with many cultural backgrounds, a name that is workable across various languages is often a priority. Natan is a great option, as it is a familiar name in many European countries. It is currently most popular in Poland but seeing significant use in Israel as well.

Pavel may be widespread in the former Soviet Union, but it has a somewhat impoverished image here.

Musical association with Igor Stravinsky, but also Dr. Frankenstein's right-hand man.

Redolent of Khrushchev and la femme.

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.

Unisex name in Israel, ideal for a Hanukkah baby.

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.

Feels as strong and international as Roman, with none of the popularity. Arman might be a form of the German Herman or of the Persian/Kazakh/Armenian Armen or Arman, meaning wish or hope.