Slavic girl names are steeped in rich history. Whether the names come from old Latin or Greek, Medieval Slavic traditions, or modern twists, these names can be extra-feminine and strong at the same time. Where do you start when searching Slavic history for the perfect name?
We’ve got it all ahead, so you can dive right into these awesome Slavic names for girls and find the ideal name for your little countess-in-training.
105 Cute Slavic Names for Girls
Discover the most meaningful Slavic female names for your girl to wear like a crown.
Adrijana
Adrijana is a traditional Slavic spelling of the Latin Adriana, referring to the Adriatic sea. A woman from the Croatian or Italian coast might be called Adriana. Adrijana is a beautiful, feminine name for your coastal girl to enjoy.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Woman from Hadria, dark one
- Pronunciation: Aa-dreh-YAEN-aa
- Variations: Adriana
- Namesakes: Adrijana Hodžić, a Kosovar Deputy Mayor of North Mitrovica. Adrijana Krasniqi, an Albanian-Macedonian singer, songwriter, and rapper from Sweden.
- Popularity: Adrijana was used 3,225 times in 2014 worldwide, mostly in Croatia and Slovenia.
Agata
Agata arose from Agatha, and is most popular as St. Agatha of Sicily, a 3rd-century Christian martyr. Agata finds the most widespread use in Poland. Agata is everything good and will make a cute old-fashioned name for your goody-two-shoes.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Good
- Pronunciation: Aa-GAA-taa
- Variations: Agatha
- Namesakes: Agatha Cerqueira Pereira Moreira, a Brazilian actress and model appearing in the telenovela Malhação. Agatha Barbara, the first female president of Malta.
- Popularity: Agatha last ranked in the top 1,000 girls names in the U.S. in the 1930s, but is currently ranked 3,000 worldwide.
Agnieszka
Because of the story of St. Agnes being martyred in Roman times, Agnes (and the Polish name Agnieszka) became associated with a “lamb.” You can assign this flowery version of Agnes to your very own, pure little lamb.
- Origin: Slavic, Polish, Greek
- Meaning: Pure, holy, chaste
- Pronunciation: Ahg-NYESH-kah
- Variations: Agnes
- Namesakes: Agnieszka Arnold, a Polish documentary filmmaker best known for a film about the Jedwabne pogrom during World War II. Agnieszka Bednarek-Kasza, a Polish volleyball player and member of the national volleyball team.
- Popularity: Agnieska ranks in the top 3,000 girls’ names worldwide and in the top 100 in Poland.
Ana
Ana is a Slavic version of the Greek Ann/Anne. Ana uses its long history well, since it is super popular worldwide. Ana is a pretty, simple, and graceful name for your little girl.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Favor, grace, beautiful
- Pronunciation: AHN-aa
- Variations: Anne, Ann
- Namesakes: Ana Đolić, a Croatian singer and TV personality. Ana Kirby (known as Ana Matronic), an American singer and co-lead vocalist for Scissor Sisters.
- Popularity: Ana is currently the 16th most popular name in the world.
Anastasia
Anastasia is an archaic and gorgeous name, most famous as the legendary missing Romanov sister of the last ruling Russian royal family. Most popular in Eastern European countries, Anastasia could suit your princess right.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Resurrection
- Pronunciation: AH-nah-STAH-see-ya
- Variations: Anastatia, Nasstassja, Anastacia
- Namesakes: Anastasia Avramidou, a Greek chess player and current Woman International Master. Anastasia Sinitsyna, a Russian handballer and member of the Russian national team
- Popularity: In the top 800 names, Anastasia is in the top 10 girl names in Russia, Belarus, Moldova, Serbia, Georgia, and Montenegro.
Angelika
Angelika brings to mind angels descending from heaven to make your life better. This spelling of Angelika with a “k” isn’t as common as the one using a “c,” but that makes it all the more special for your little angel.
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Angelic, messenger
- Pronunciation: An-GE-lika
- Variations: Angelica, Angyalka, Anjelica
- Namesakes: Angelika Volquartz, the first female German mayor of Kiel. Angelika Kirchmayr, a Soviet ice dancer and 1989 World Junior champion.
- Popularity: Angelika ranked in the top 2,116 girls’ names worldwide in 2014, but was beaten by Angelica.
Anica
Anica is a diminutive form of Ana, pronounced differently for Croatians, Serbians, and Slovenes than the harder-sounding AH-nih-kaa in Russian and Romanian. Anica can be a modern version of an old Slav name for your baby girl.
- Origin: Greek, Slavic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Grace
- Pronunciation: AH-nih-tsuh
- Variations: Anika, Annika
- Namesakes: Anica Dobra, a Serbian film actress. Anica Plećić, a Serbian footballer who plays forward for ŽFK Sloga Zemun.
- Popularity: In 2014, Anica ranked 17,555th for girls’ names worldwide, with most usage in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, and Slovenia.
Antonija
Anotnija arose from Antonia, which originated as Antonius, a Roman family name of Etruscan origin. Most popular in former Yugoslavian countries, Antonija is the prettiest name for a little girl.
- Origin: Latin, Slavic
- Meaning: Highly praiseworthy
- Pronunciation: AEN-tow-NIY-yaa
- Variations: Tonja
- Namesakes: Antonija Sandrić, a Croatian professional basketball player. Antonija Šola, a Croatian musician, singer-songwriter, actress, and music producer.
- Popularity: Antonija is 14th among Croatia’s top girls’ names, but ranks 38,000th worldwide.
Biljana
Biljana has a purely Slavic origin, with the Serbo-Croatian word for “white” being similar: “bijelim.” Biljana is pretty uncommon outside of Serbia and environs, so the little girl you’re expecting could use this most unusual of Slavic girl names for herself.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: White, fair, herb
- Pronunciation: Bihl-JHAE-na
- Variations: Bilyana
- Namesakes: Biljana “Bilja” Krstić, a Serbian pop singer. Biljana Srbljanović, a Serbian playwright with plays, staged in 50 countries.
- Popularity: Biljana is in the top 10,000 girls’ names worldwide, with the most use in Serbia.
Blaga
Blagoveshtenie is a Bulgarian Christian celebration that uses the root “Blaga.” Blaga is based on religious tradition and is most prevalent in Bulgaria, but you can use this old name for your little girl with all confidence.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Sweet, pleasant, good
- Pronunciation: BLAH-ga
- Variations: Blagorodna, Blaguna
- Namesakes: Blaga Nikolova Dimitrova, a Bulgarian poet and the 2nd Vice President of Bulgaria.
- Popularity: Blaga is common in North Macedonia and Bulgaria, with 4,000 girls named Blaga worldwide.
Bogdana
Bogdana uses the Slavic root of “bog,” meaning God, to bring this blessed Slavid name for girls into the world. Bogdana is rare outside of Bulgarian and Russian cultures, so you can take this Balkan name and make it your own (and your little girl’s).
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Given by God
- Pronunciation: Bog-DAAH-naa
- Variations: Bohdana, Bogdanka
- Popularity: In 2014, 8,583 girls were named Bogdana worldwide, mainly in Bulgaria and Russia.
Bojana
Bojana is a South-Slavic spelling of the Bulgarian alternative Boyana. Both mean “battle,” so you can rest assured this powerful, old-fashioned name will keep your little one safe.
- Origin: Czech, Slavic
- Meaning: Battle
- Pronunciation: Bow-YAA-Naa
- Variations: Boyana
- Namesakes: Bojana Bobusic, an Australian tennis player ranked 222nd globally. Bojana Laura Ordinačev, a Serbian model and actress best known for the 2003 TV series M(j)ešoviti Rak.
- Popularity: With over 24,000 girls named Bojana globally, Bojana is the most popular in Serbia, occurring one among 700 girls.
Branka
Branka has all the stereotypical Slavic traits like power, glory, and strength. Branka is not as popular elsewhere, so you can grab this ancient call to power for your strong little girl to take as her own.
- Origin: Serbo-Croatian
- Meaning: To defend and protect, fighting, glory
- Pronunciation: BRAENKaa
- Variations: Branca
- Namesakes: Branka Katić, a Serbian actress known for the TV series Big Love. Branka Prpa, a Serbo-Croatian historian, author, and former director of Belgrade’s Historical Archives.
- Popularity: Branka was the 13,290th most popular name worldwide in 2014, with the most occurrences in Serbia and Croatia.
Danica
In Slavic folklore, Danica personified the “morning star” into a beautiful goddess. Symbolic and badass all at once, Danica need not be reserved for orthodox use. Your little one can bring Danica back to life.
- Origin: Slavic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Morning star, venus
- Pronunciation: DAH-niy-Tzah
- Variations: Dana
- Namesakes: Danica Krstajić, a former Montenegrin tennis player. Danica Mae McKellar, an American actress, mathematics writer, and education advocate best known for playing Winnie Cooper in The Wonder Years’ TV series.
- Popularity: Danica was ranked in the top 9,010 names worldwide in 2014.
Dasha
The etymology of Dasha is a winding road that takes us to Dorothy and Daria, which both emanate from the old Greek name Theodora. It’s much faster for you to bring this name meaning “God’s gift,” into your little girl’s life.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: God’s gift
- Pronunciation: DAH-shaa
- Variations: Daria, Dorothy
- Namesakes: Daria “Dasha” Viktorivna Astafieva, a Ukrainian model, singer, actress, and former member of the Ukrainian pop duo NikitA. Daria “Dasha” Dmitrievna Nekrasova, a Belarusian-American actress, filmmaker, and host of the Red Scare podcast.
- Popularity: In the U.S., 1,566 girls were named Dasha in 2014, with over 2,000 girls named Dasha in India.
Devana
The goddess Devana of Slavic folklore is similar to the goddess Diana in Roman mythology. She is powerful, brave, and not afraid of nature. Your little one may be the first Devana on your street for a long time.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Goddess of wild nature, forests, hunting, and the moon
- Pronunciation: DEH-vae-Nah
- Variations: Devanah, Devanna, Devannah
- Popularity: 1,603 girls were named Devana worldwide in 2014, with the highest density of 1 in 10 in Slovenia.
Dominika
Dominika is a Polish variation of a Latin name. Saint Dominica was a 4th-century Polish saint martyred under Diocletian for destroying pagan idols. The deep meaning associated with Dominika can let this flowing name of old be your little girl’s.
- Origin: Polish, Latin
- Meaning: From the Lord, belonging to God
- Pronunciation: Dao-MIY-niy-kaa
- Variations: Dominica
- Namesakes: Dominika Mirgová, a Slovak singer and actress. Dominika Červenková, a Czech gymnast who participated in 2004 Athens Olympic Games.
- Popularity: Dominika was the 7,080th most common name worldwide in 2014, with 1 in 79 Polish girls given the name.
Draga
Draga comes from the word “dorog” meaning “dear” and “precious”—everything your little girl is to you. Draga is rare outside of Serbian and Croatian cultures, so name your dear correctly, and you won’t regret it.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Dear, precious
- Pronunciation: DRAAH-gah
- Variations: Drago (masculine)
- Namesakes: Draginja “Draga” Obrenović, the Queen consort of Serbia as the wife of King Aleksandar Obrenović. Draga Matković, a Croatian pianist playing German classical piano.
- Popularity: Over 14,000 people are named Draga worldwide, making the top 300 names in Serbia and Croatia.
Ekaterina
Ekaterina is a lovely form of Katherine, and the “e” before Katerina is an example of Russian preservation of the original Greek spelling, Aikaterinē. Ekaterina flows like a beautiful ballerina and will suit your little star perfectly.
- Origin: Russian, Greek
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: Iy-Kaa-tiy-RIY-naa
- Variations: Yekaterina
- Namesakes: Ekaterina Yevgenyevna Anikeeva, a Russian water polo player who won the bronze medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics. Ekaterina Sergeevna Maximova, a Soviet and Russian ballerina of the Bolshoi Theater for 30 years.
- Popularity: Ekaterina is the 103rd most common name in the world.
Elena
Get on the bandwagon of the phenomenon that is Elena. From Greek origins to modern-day Europeans, Elena is massively popular worldwide. It is short and classic and makes a great middle name for girls.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Bright, shining light
- Pronunciation: EH-leh-Naa
- Variations: Helena, Eleanor
- Namesakes: Elena Viacheslavovna Dementieva, a Russian tennis player who won a gold medal at the 2008 Olympics. Infanta Elena, the daughter of King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía of Spain.
- Popularity: Elena is the 31st most common name in the world.
Eleanora
Eleanora is a Slavic spelling of Eleanor, which came from the Old French Provençal name Aliénor. Eleanora has many variations, yet this one is quite rare. Eleanora can be the perfect beacon of light for your little girl.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Arabic
- Meaning: God is my light, torch, beautiful, bright, merciful
- Pronunciation: ehl-leh-NAOR-aa
- Variations: Eleanor, Eleonora
- Namesakes: Eleanora Atherton, an English philanthropist best known for her work in Manchester, England. Eleanora Fagan (birth name of American jazz singer Billie Holiday).
- Popularity: Eleanora doesn’t rank in the top 100,000 girls’ names given worldwide.
Elizabeta
Outside of Slovenia, Elizabeta is one of many variations of the Hebrew Elizabeth. As women’s names go, Elizabeta is not one you can forget anytime soon. You can bring this medieval name into the modern world for your little one.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Hebrew
- Meaning: My God is a vow, God is my oath
- Pronunciation: Eh-LIH-zah-beh-tah
- Variations: Elisaveta, Elisveta
- Namesakes: Elizabeta Vidovic, a Croatian American filmmaker, actress, and writer.
- Popularity: Less than 20,000 girls worldwide are named Elizabeta, ranking in the top 200 names for Slovenian girls.
Fyedora
Fyedora is a very uncommon name with Russian and Greek heritage. Because Fyedora lacks usage, it can be sexy, smart, or anything in between. It means “gift of God,” so no matter the style, your Fyedora will be your #1 gift.
- Origin: Russian, Greek
- Meaning: Gift of God
- Pronunciation: FIYEH-dora
- Variations: Feodora, Fedora
- Popularity: 4 girls were named Fyedora in 2014, all occurring in Uzbekistan.
Gorana
Gorana is one of those cool Slavic names for girls with a unique meaning. You don’t know if your little girl will be tall or a mountain woman, but she could rock this awesome name well. You can even call her Goca for short.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Mountain woman, tall woman
- Pronunciation: GAO-rae-nah
- Variations: Gorane
- Namesakes: Gorana Matić, a Croatian tennis player who played for Yugoslavia and Croatia. Gorana Marković, a Swiss model.
- Popularity: Gorana is ranked in Croatia’s top 500 girls’ names but only appears just over 3,000 times worldwide.
Gordana
Gordana is a very traditional Slavic name that seems like a female variation of Gordon. Make your little one just as proud with this uncommon but unusual name.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Proud
- Pronunciation: GAOR-dae-nah
- Variations: Gordanah, Gordanna, Gordannah
- Namesakes: Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic, a Serbian-American biomedical engineer and professor at Columbia University. Gordana Kamenarović, a Serbian actress who appeared in the Serbian National Theater, television, radio, and film.
- Popularity: Gordana is ranked 6,576th among the most popular girls’ names worldwide, with the most usage in Serbia.
Irina
Irina derives from the ancient Greek Eirene, an ancient goddess who personified peace. This super-popular name from Macedonia to St. Petersburg belongs to girls who grow up to be incredible women. Why should your Irina be any different?
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Peace
- Pronunciation: Iy-RIY-naa
- Variations: Irene, Irena, Eirene
- Namesakes: Irina Konstantinovna Arkhipova, a Soviet Russian opera singer. Irina Mutsuovna Khakamada, a Russian economist and politician.
- Popularity: Irina is the 89th most popular name globally, with the highest concentration in Russia.
Ivanka
Ivanka is most famously the name of Donald Trump’s daughter, and carries a rich Slavic tradition. Ivanka is a diminutive of Ivan/Ivana, which is the Slavic version of John. Iva is the gorgeous short version.
- Origin: Slavic, Russian
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: Iy-VAEN-kaa
- Variations: Ivana, Ivanica, Iva
- Namesakes: Ivana Marie “Ivanka” Trump, an American businesswoman and the daughter of former President Donald Trump. Ivanka Koleva, a Bulgarian Paralympian track and field athlete who won a gold medal in the 2000 Summer Paralympics.
- Popularity: 8,192 girls worldwide are named Ivanka, with the highest concentration in Bulgaria.
Izolda
“Tristan und Isolde” is a famous opera by Richard Wagner, based on the ancient love story of Tristan and Iseult. The poetic Izolda is rare these days, so you and yours can enjoy the old-world beauty of this vintage Slavic girl’s name.
- Origin: Germanic, Slavic
- Meaning: She who is gazed upon
- Pronunciation: Ee-ZAWL-dah
- Variations: Isolde, Izolde, Isolda
- Namesakes: Izolda Vasilyevna Izvitskaya, a Soviet actress who has a cafe in Paris named after her. Izolda Barudžija, a Serbian and former Yugoslav singer who sang in the Jazz Orchestra Radio Belgrade.
- Popularity: In 2014, less than 17,000 people worldwide were named Izolda, with the most in Georgia.
Jana
Jana is the feminine form of Janus, also referred to as the Roman goddess of the hunt, Diana. Jana is simple yet classic and would work whether your little girl is an Americanized goddess Jana or a Belarusian version.
- Origin: Slavic, Persian
- Meaning: God is gracious, my dearest
- Pronunciation: YAA-naa
- Variations: Janee, Jani
- Namesakes: Jana Assi, a Lebanese footballer who plays forward for the Lebanese club Safa. Jana Čepelová, a Slovakian tennis player who has won 7 singles titles and 3 doubles titles.
- Popularity: Jana is the top 1,315th most popular girls name worldwide and is ranked #3 in the Czech Republic.
Jasmina
From Arabic to Sanskrit connections, Jasmina is as old and beautiful as a sweet-smelling Jasmine tree. Jasmina is a hot name at the moment, so why not “pluck” the tree and use this name for your precious flower girl?
- Origin: Slavic, Persian
- Meaning: Jasmine flower
- Pronunciation: Yah-SMIY-naa
- Variations: Jasmin, Jasminka, Jasmine
- Namesakes: Jasmina Cibic, a Slovenian performance, installation, and film artist. Jasmina Kajtazovič, a Slovenian-born Bosnian tennis player who won a singles title and 5 doubles titles.
- Popularity: Jasmina ranks in the top 12,000 girls’ names worldwide, while it is a top 50 name in Serbia.
Jasna
Jasna was first used for the Jasna Góra Monastery in Poland, a longtime pilgrimage destination and shrine for the Virgin Mary. Jasna has pockets of popularity among Slavic girl names and is a pretty, succinct option that would sit nicely with the iconic girl in your life.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Clear, sharp
- Pronunciation: JHAEZ-nah
- Variations: Jasenka, Jasnenka, Jassie
- Namesakes: Jasna Diklić, a Bosnian actress and one of the founders of the Sarajevo War Theater. Jasna Đoković, a Montenegrin professional football midfielder who has played for the women’s national team.
- Popularity: In 2014, Jasna was ranked 20,773rd worldwide, while ranked 71st in Croatia.
Jelena
Jelena is another Slavic variation of the ancient Greek Helen (as in Helen of Troy). Once you start pronouncing Slavic female names and replace “j” with a “y” sound, you’ll have a super-feminine classic name for the mythological heroine in your life.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Bright, Light
- Pronunciation: YEH-leh-Nah
- Variations: Jella, Lenja, Yelena
- Namesakes: Jelena Lavko, a Serbian handball player for Minaur Baia Mare and the Serbian national team. Jelena Kovačević, a Serbian-American professor and the first female Dean of the New York University engineering school.
- Popularity: Jelena is the 6,482nd most popular girls name worldwide, with the most usage in Serbia.
Jovana
Jovana emanates from the word Jove, which represents the god Jupiter and then the Judeo-Christian God. Jovana is uncommon enough to make its introduction into your baby girl’s life.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: Yow-VAA-naa
- Variations: Joanna, Johanna, Jovanna
- Namesakes: Jovana Nikolić, a Serbian figure skater and the 2005 Serbian national silver medalist. Jovana Joksimović, a Serbian television presenter, best known for the morning TV show Jutarnji Program.
- Popularity: Less than 21,000 people worldwide are named Jovana, with the most occurrences in Brazil and Serbia.
Karna
Karna is said to have originated in the Sanskrit language as the son of a sun god in Hindu mythology. Karn is a male version of Karna, making it a unisex name. Karna will bring this unique quality to the girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic, Sanskrit
- Meaning: The horn of an animal
- Pronunciation: KAAR-naa
- Variations: Karn
- Namesakes: Karna Lidmar-Bergström, a Swedish geologist and geomorphologist known for her study of Pre-Quaternary landforms in Sweden and Norway.
- Popularity: Karna is ranked 9,796th worldwide, with the most usage in Nepal and India.
Karolina
Despite its meaning as a “free man,” Karolina is a pretty variant of the male name Charles and has been used by women from many different walks of life. Karolina may become Karol when your little girl enjoys the name.
- Origin: Slavic, Germanic
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: KAA-row-LIY-naa
- Variations: Caroline, Carol
- Namesakes: Karolína Hrdličková, a Czech professional tennis player and former world No. 1 in singles. Karolina Karlovna Pavlova, a 19th-century Russian poet, and novelist.
- Popularity: Karolina is the 2,085th most popular name worldwide and is ranked 26th in Poland.
Kasia
Kasia dates back to ancient Greek and Hebrew, where it means “the thorny shrub,” which became “guileless” and “chaste” in the Slavic culture. Kasia feels modern to the ears and would fit the pure baby girl you’re expecting like a glove.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Chaste, pure
- Pronunciation: KAES-iy-aa or KAA-shaa
- Variations: Acacia, Kesia
- Namesakes: Kasia Cerekwicka, a Polish pop singer. Katarzyna Anna “Kasia” Smutniak, a Polish-Italian actress and model.
- Popularity: Kasia is the 4,582nd most popular name worldwide, with the most usage in Poland.
Kata
Kata is a classic nickname used for Katalin or Kathryn. Katica is a different diminutive version of Kata. Whichever you choose, this cute name will make a wonderful one for a little girl about to capture your heart.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Chaste, pure
- Pronunciation: KAH-ta
- Variations: Katalin, Katherine, Kate
- Namesakes: Anna Maria Katarina “Kata” Dalström, a Swedish writer called “the mother of the Swedish socialist working class movement.” Kata Dobó, a Hungarian actress and filmmaker.
- Popularity: Kata is in the top 10,000 girls’ names worldwide and is #43 in Croatia.
Krystyna
Krystyna is a classical name derived from Christine, that comes alive in a new way with this unique Slavic spelling. You can keep it traditional and be a trailblazer when you name your little girl Krystyna.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Christian
- Pronunciation: KRIY-ztiy-Naa
- Variations: Krisztina, Khristina, Kristina, Krystina
- Namesakes: Krystyna Janina Skarbek, a Polish agent of the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II. Krystyna Waleria Sienkiewicz, a Polish actress and singer.
- Popularity: Krystyna is the 8,640th most popular girls name worldwide, with the most usage in Poland.
Kupala
Kupala Night is a Slavic tradition that celebrates the summer solstice and takes place in Ukraine, Belarus, Poland, and Russia. Kupala is a rare yet beautiful goddess’ name unique to the Slavic culture. How can you resist sharing the tradition with your little harvest girl?
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Bathing, the god of fertility and harvest
- Pronunciation: KU-pa-laa
- Popularity: 124 people worldwide are named Kupala, mostly in India.
Lada
Lada has mythological origins as the goddess of all things, from love and beauty to marriage. The name can also refer to a “bride.” Lada is short and sweet, with areas of popularity in Slavic nations. Lada may be your special goddess too.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Goddess of beauty, love, and marriage
- Pronunciation: LAA-dah
- Variations: Ladislava, Wladysława
- Namesakes: Lada Dance, a Russian jazz and dance music singer. Lada Kaštelan, a Croatian dramatist, screenwriter, and dramaturge at the Croatian National Theater.
- Popularity: Lada is ranked 13,612th for girls’ names worldwide while ranking in the top 500 in the Czech Republic, Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, and Croatia.
Lelia
Lelia comes from the Latin Laelia, which originated from the Roman surname Laelius. Lelia is as pretty as a flower, which is ideal since it can also denote an orchid. Give your little bundle this amazing Slavic name for girls, and watch her bloom!
- Origin: Slavic, Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Well-spoken
- Pronunciation: LEY-liy-aa
- Variations: Lellia, Lelita, Layla
- Namesakes: Lélia Abramo, an Italian-Brazilian actress, and political activist. Leila Esfandyari, an Iranian mountain climber and the first Iranian woman to scale the Himalayas.
- Popularity: 35,271 people worldwide are named Lelia, with the most usage in the U.S. and Brazil.
Lenka
Lenka is a unique short form of Helene. While very Slavic, Lenka can also mean “taker” in African culture. Lenka seems both a nickname and full name, so it can be everything you need for your baby girl.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Light, illumination
- Pronunciation: LEHNG-kaa
- Variations: Lena
- Namesakes: Lenka Hiklová, a Credit Card Paymentmac ski mountaineer who finished 8th in the 2003 European Championship of Ski Mountaineering. Lenka Peterson, an American theater, film, and TV actress, and early member of The Actor’s Studio in New York.
- Popularity: Lenka is ranked 6,660th for girls’ names worldwide and ranked 17th in the Czech Republic.
Lenja
Lenja is a somewhat rare name, yet it refers to the very popular Helene, as many other Slavic girl names do. Lenja can be the very special name you successfully shine on your new daughter.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Torch, beautiful, light
- Pronunciation: LEHN-jhah
- Variations: Jelena, Lena
- Popularity: 264 people are named Lenja worldwide, with the top 3 countries being Malaysia, India, and Slovenia.
Ljuba
The root word for Ljuba comes from the capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana, which is one of the prettiest cities around. Ljuba is all about love, so spread the love to the baby girl you’re expecting with this strong Slavic female name.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Love
- Pronunciation: L-YUW-bah
- Variations: Lyuba, Luba, Lubica
- Namesakes: Ljuba Welitsch, a Bulgarian opera singer. Ljuba Danielovna Kristol, a Russian-born Israeli chess player who holds the title of Lady Grandmaster.
- Popularity: Just under 20,000 people have the name Ljuba worldwide, mostly used in the former countries of Yugoslavia.
Lucia
The lovely, popular Lucia meaning “light” is used all over Europe. Lucia has its root in Roman culture with the masculine name Lucius. Lucia is so popular because of its snappy, classical appeal, emitting a strong sense of beauty and light.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Light
- Pronunciation: Luw-SIY-ah or LUW-SHah or Luw-CHIY-aa
- Variations: Lucy, Luz
- Namesakes: Lucia Anna Joyce, Irish professional dancer and the daughter of Irish writer James Joyce and Nora Barnacle. Lucia Bosè, an Italian-born Spanish actress.
- Popularity: Lucia is the 248th most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Italy.
Ludmila
Ludmila comes from the Slavic words “lyudu” (people) and “milu” (gracious, dear). The result is a popular word but a less popular name worldwide. With many variations to choose from, your Ludmila (or Lyudmyla or Ludmilla) will have her pick.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Favor of the people
- Pronunciation: LYUWD-MIY-laa
- Variations: Ludmilla, Lyudmila, Lyudmyla
- Namesakes: Rosa Ludmilla Assing, a German writer who wrote under the names Achim Lothar and Talora. Ludmila Semenyaka, a Soviet ballerina who danced for the Kirov Ballet and the Bolshoi Ballet.
- Popularity: Ludmila is ranked in the top 30,000 girls’ names worldwide, with the most occurrences in Germany and Brazil.
Magdalena
Magdalena originally came from the figure Mary Magdalene in the Bible. Much of the Slavic world uses this version of Magdalene for girls’ names, so your little girl can also enjoy the Biblical beauty of Magdalena.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin, Hebrew
- Meaning: Of Magdala
- Pronunciation: Maag-daa-LEH-naa
- Variations: Madalena, Magda, Magdala
- Namesakes: Magdalena Fransson, a Swedish politician and chairman of the Center Party Youth. Magdalena Lamparska is a Polish film and theater actress best known for the 39 and a Half Polish TV series.
- Popularity: Magdalena is the 491st most popular name globally, with the most usage in Poland.
Marta
Marta comes from the surname Martinus in the Roman tradition. There is also a Swedish version Märta, which comes from Margaret, meaning “pearl.” Marta is hugely popular and would make a stunning name for your little lady.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin, Aramaic
- Meaning: The lady
- Pronunciation: MAAR-taa
- Variations: Martina, Martha
- Namesakes: Marta García, a Cuban ballet dancer and prima ballerina for the Cuban National Ballet. Marta Fran Kauffman, an American TV writer, and producer best known as the co-creator of the sitcom Friends.
- Popularity: Marta is the 223rd most popular name worldwide, with the most occurrences in Poland.
Maryana
Maryana goes back to the ancient Hebrew names Mary and Anna. The more popular spelling Mariana takes precedence, but the Russian-preferred spelling of Maryana may bring the power of history to your little beloved.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Beloved
- Pronunciation: Meh-riy-AAN-ah
- Variations: Marianna, Marijana, Maryanna, Mariana
- Namesakes: Maryana bint Fathallah bin Nasrallah Marrash, a Syrian writer and poet of the Arab Renaissance. Maryana Aleksandrovna Naumova, a Russian powerlifter and leading teenage girl in the discipline globally.
- Popularity: Just under 56,000 people worldwide are named Maryana, with the most usage in Russia.
Marzanna
Marzanna is a rare gem referring to the Polish pagan goddess of rebirth associated with winter and spring. This gorgeous name perfectly celebrates the cycles of life. You’re not likely to hear it anywhere these days, so why not celebrate your little girl with this exotic name?
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Goddess of death, winter, and nature
- Pronunciation: Maar-JHAN-naa
- Popularity: In 2014, 5,851 people were named Marzanna worldwide and ranked in the top 366 in Poland.
Maya
While Maya is simply the Russian form of the name Mary, it also has Sanskrit meanings, from “dream” and “illusion” to “wisdom,” “wealth,” and “prosperity.” Maya has so many forms that you can pick your favorite for your little dream giver.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Sanskrit
- Meaning: Mother, illusion
- Pronunciation: MAA-Yaa
- Variations: Maia, Maja, Maiah, Mya, Myah, Maiya
- Namesakes: Maya Angelou, an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Maja “Maya” Berović, a Bosnian pop singer.
- Popularity: Maya is the 372nd most popular name worldwide, while it ranks 62nd in India.
Melania
There was once a St. Melania The Elder (and her granddaughter St. Melania The Younger) who were both dedicated to St. Jerome. Melania has even made it as far as England via France. Melania is a feminine, somewhat popular name and ready for use by your baby girl.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Black, dark
- Pronunciation: Meh-LAAN-Yaa
- Variations: Melanie
- Namesakes: Melania Trump, a Slovene-American former model, businesswoman, and wife of President Donald Trump. Melania Ursu, a Romanian stage and film actress who performed at the Cluj-Napoca National Theater.
- Popularity: Melania ranks in the top 10,000 girls’ names worldwide, with the most usage in Ukraine and Tanzania.
Mila
Mila is a common nickname derived from Ludmilla, Milana, Miroslava, and Emilia. The trendy Mila keeps growing in popularity, partly because of its modern, one-syllable feel. Mila can do a great job encompassing all that is your precious daughter.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Gracious, dear one, miracle
- Pronunciation: MIY-laa
- Variations: Milah, Milla, Millah, Myla
- Namesakes: Mila Kunis, an American actress best known for That ’70s Show. Mila Nikolova, a Bulgarian mathematician.
- Popularity: Mila ranks in the top 5,000 names worldwide and is the top 162 girl’s names in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Milena
A town in Sicily called Milena also pays tribute to Queen Milena of Montenegro, the mother of Queen Elena and wife of King Victor Emmanuel III of Italy. All these royal connections make Milena an outstanding choice for your little queen to enjoy.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Gracious, pleasant, dear
- Pronunciation: Miy-LEH-naa
- Variations: Mileena, Milenia, Milana
- Namesakes: Milena Dravić, a Yugoslav and Serbian film, TV, and theater actress. Milena Slavova, a Bulgarian rock singer and founding member of the band Review.
- Popularity: Milena is the 2,265th most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Brazil and Russia.
Milica
Milica is shrouded in royalty, used for queens and princesses, including Milica of Serbia, who is honored as a saint in the Serbian Orthodox Church. This holy, formal name will land on your little girl like the crown she deserves.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Kind, dear, sweet
- Pronunciation: MIY-lihts-aah
- Variations: Milla, Mila
- Namesakes: Milica Stojadinovic-Srpkinja, a Serbian poet known as “the greatest female Serbian poet of the 19th-century.” Milica Đurđić, domestic partner of Ana Brnabic, Prime Minister of Serbia.
- Popularity: Milica misses the top 10,000 names worldwide but is 28th in Serbia.
Minna
The Germanic roots of Minna connect it to the old-world name Wilhemina and can be a nickname instead of Willa or Wilma. Minna is not as famous as it once was, but the snappy, cute Minna can show off your little girl’s good deeds.
- Origin: Slavic, Germanic
- Meaning: Gift, good, kind deed, courtly love
- Pronunciation: MEE-naa
- Variations: Mina
- Namesakes: Minna Canth, a Finnish writer and social activist. Minna Keene, a German-born Canadian portrait photographer.
- Popularity: In 2014, 51,764 people worldwide were named Minna, with 1 in 174 girls in Finland.
Mokosh
Mokosh is a Slavic goddess who watches women’s work and destiny, a mysterious choice among Slavic female names. She is also a mother goddess who protects women in childbirth. You can bless your miracle girl with the extremely rare Mokosh, an ancient life-giver, and make her one in a million.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Moisture, deeply into something
- Pronunciation: MOH-kosh
- Variations: Makosh, Mokos
- Popularity: Worldwide, just one person is currently named Mokosh, located in Russia.
Monika
Monika is the patron saint of women and mothers. She is not as popular as the alternate Monica but remains a classic European name choice for a little girl with strong connections.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin, Greek
- Meaning: Advice giver, advisor, unique
- Pronunciation: MOW-nih-Kaa
- Variations: Maanika, Monica
- Namesakes: Monika is the 278th most popular name worldwide, with the most representation in Germany.
- Popularity: Monika Kuszyńska, a Polish singer and songwriter who represented Poland in the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest. Monika Zguro, an Albanian model, crowned Miss Albania in 1993.
Morana
Morana is the Slavic goddess of death, winter, and rebirth. This mythological, very rare name fully represents the cycle of life. Honor the life cycle by granting your little girl the ability to be called Morana.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Winter, death, rebirth
- Pronunciation: Mohr-AH-na
- Variations: Morena, Mora
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,163 people were named Morana worldwide, while it ranked 585th in Croatia.
Nada
Though not with the same origin, the Indian word Nāda is an ancient metaphysical concept referring to the spiritual sound that fills the cosmos. Whether you go for that meaning or just the lovely “dew at sunrise,” Nada is elusive, poetic, and cool.
- Origin: Russian, Arabic
- Meaning: Dew at sunrise
- Pronunciation: NAA-dah
- Variations: Naida, Nadah, Nadda
- Namesakes: Nada Birko, a Yugoslavian cross-country skier who finished 14th at the 1952 Winter Olympics. Nada M. Shabout, an American art historian, specializing in modern Iraqi art.
- Popularity: Nada is the 813th most popular name worldwide, ranking 27th in Egypt.
Nadia
Though Nadia first appeared in 19th-century France, it became more popular due to Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci. Whether your little girl wants to perform backflips at the Olympics or not, she may love this classic name.
- Origin: Slavic, Arabic
- Meaning: Hope
- Pronunciation: NEY-diy-Ah
- Variations: Nadja, Nadya, Nadiya, Nadiia
- Namesakes: Nadia Abdala, a Mexican tennis player and member of the Mexico Fed Cup team.Nadia Elena Comăneci Conner (known as Nadia Comăneci), a Romanian gymnast and 5 time Olympic gold medalist.
- Popularity: Nadia is the 251st most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Pakistan and Algeria.
Nastassja
Nastassja is a Slavic form of the Greek Anastasia. There are many variations, but Natasha is used more widely than Nastassja. This unique spelling can serve its meaning when it is resurrected in style for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Resurrection
- Pronunciation: Naes-TAESS-yah
- Variations: Natasha, Nastasia, Nastasja, Nastassiya
- Namesakes: Nastassja Aglaia Kinski, a German actress appearing in more than 60 films in Europe and the U.S. Nastassja Martin, a French anthropologist specializing in the great North.
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,334 people were named Nastassja worldwide, with the most occurrences in South Africa and the U.S.
Nastja
Nastja is an informal diminutive of the Greek Anastasia and a shorter version of Nasstassja or Nastassya. Nastja is quite uncommon outside of Slovenia, but can be reborn for the special little girl you love.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Resurrection, reborn
- Pronunciation: NAES-tyah
- Variations: Nashyta, Nastia
- Namesakes: Nastja Govejšek, a Slovenian swimmer who competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics. Nastja Kolar, a Slovenian tennis player whose highest rank was 178 in singles and 140 in doubles.
- Popularity: In 2014, just over 3,000 people were named Nastja worldwide, with the highest occurrences in Slovenia.
Natalia
Natalia refers to a very special day in history and many people’s lives: Christmas Day. This festive, feminine name gets beat out by the more popular Natalie, but this Slavic version will keep the day holy and sweet for your little one.
- Origin: Russian, Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Birthday of the Lord, Christmas Day
- Pronunciation: Naa-TAA-lyaa
- Variations: Natalya, Nathalia, Nataly
- Namesakes: Natalia Barbu, a Moldovan singer/songwriter who represented Moldova in the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest. Natalia Kusendova, a Canadian politician, elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 2018.
- Popularity: Natalia is the 359th most common name worldwide and is ranked 34th in Ukraine.
Nevena
Nevena is patterned after the Serbian word for “marigold” and sounds just as sweet and pretty. Nevena is pretty rare outside of Bulgaria and Serbia, so you can pluck this floral beauty for your little flower girl.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Marigold flower
- Pronunciation: NEH-vih-Nah
- Variations: Nevenka
- Namesakes: Nevena Bridgen, a Serbian opera singer and principal soloist at the National Theater in Belgrade. Nevena Lenđel, a Croatian high jumper who won the bronze medal at the 1998 World Junior Championships.
- Popularity: In 2014, 19,336 people were named Nevena worldwide, with the most usage in Bulgaria and Serbia.
Nika
Nika derives from the Greek goddess of victory Nike. All things good and powerful have stayed with this classic name for ages. The short Nika is unisex and may inspire your little girl to grow up and become anything she wants to be.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Persian
- Meaning: Good, true, chosen, crystal water
- Pronunciation: NIY-kaa
- Variations: Niki, Nikola
- Namesakes: Nika Georgievna Turbina, a Russian poet, awarded the Golden Lion award in 1985. Nika Križnar, a Slovenian ski jumper who was the 2022 Olympic bronze medalist.
- Popularity: Nika is the 7,160th most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Russia.
Nikola
Nikola is a unisex Slavic name from the Greek Nikolaos. Nikola is more widely used as a boys’ name than a girls’ name, but certain countries tend to differ on these trends. Nikola is a very traditional name that could bring your little girl a history of victory for all.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Victory of the people
- Pronunciation: NIY-kow-Laa
- Variations: Nicola, Niccola, Nichola
- Namesakes: Nikola Ogrodníková, a Czech professional javelin thrower who won the silver medal at the 2018 European Championships.
- Popularity: Nikola is the 4,618th most popular name worldwide, mostly used as a girls’ name in the Czech Republic.
Nina
In Russian culture, Nina is a variation of Anne. Nina has been used with various meanings from Babylon to Iceland and many places in between. Nina is totally recognizable and is a name with an undeniable life force for the happy life of the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic, Persian
- Meaning: Favor, grace, fire
- Pronunciation: NEE-naah
- Variations: Neena, Ninah, Ninna
- Namesakes: Catharina “Nina” Hagen, a German singer, songwriter, and actress during the punk and new wave movement. Nina Leonidovna Veselova, a Russian Soviet realist painter and graphic artist.
- Popularity: Nina is the 519th most popular name worldwide, with the most usage in Russia and the U.S.
Nuriya
Nuriya has many root origins from Hebrew to Arabic, but all cast Nuriya in a “luminous” and “radiant” light. Nuriya is somewhat rare and is considered a vintage name, so it can be your discovery to light up the life of your baby girl.
- Origin: Slavic, Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Light, luminous, radiant, brilliant
- Pronunciation: NEWR-iy-Ah
- Variations: Nuria
- Namesakes: Nuriya Akhmedova, an Azerbaijani actress known for the films Yoxlama and Tähminä.
- Popularity: In 2014, just over 50,000 people were named Nuriya worldwide, with the most occurrences in Uzbekistan.
Oksana
Oksana is a popular name with a mostly Ukrainian origin. Oksana is linked to the Persian name Rukhshana which means “the beautiful one.” Whichever delineation you choose for your little girl, Oksana is an adorable girl’s name.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek, Persian
- Meaning: Praise God
- Pronunciation: Aak-SAA-naa
- Variations: Axana, Aksana
- Namesakes: Oksana Serhiyivna Baiul-Farina, a Ukrainian figure skater and the 1993/1994 World champion. Oksana Aleksandrovna Akinshina, a Russian actress, best known for the The Bourne Supremacy film.
- Popularity: Oksana is the 551st most popular name worldwide with the most usage in Russia and Ukraine.
Olga
Olga is the Russian version of the Scandinavian Helga (from Helge). St. Olga represented Scandinavians who settled in Eastern Europe in the 9th and 10th centuries. The connection is solid, and so is Olga’s popularity for your blessed girl.
- Origin: Russian, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Holy, blessed
- Pronunciation: OWL-gaa
- Variations: Volga
- Namesakes: Grand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna of Russia (Olga Nikolaevna Romanova), the eldest child of the last Tsar of the Russian Empire, Emperor Nicholas II. Olga Nawoja Tokarczuk, the first Polish female prose writer awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2018.
- Popularity: Olga is the 48th most popular name worldwide, and is ranked 5th in Russia.
Perperuna
Perperuna is the rarest of Slavic girl names, referring to the Slavic goddess of rain. Whether your little girl wants to be a goddess, a farmer, or anything in between, she will be truly unique as a Perperuna since there is no record of anyone with the name currently.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Goddess of rain, to summon rain
- Pronunciation: PERP-eh-Roon-ah
- Variations: Paparuda, Peperuda
Praskovya
Praskovya has Russian religious tradition all over it, since it refers to the day of holy preparation (Friday) and a martyred 2nd-century saint. This antiquated name would do well in the modern world for the holiest of beings, your baby girl.
- Origin: Russian, Greek
- Meaning: Preparation, Friday
- Pronunciation: PRAH-zkao-Vyaa
- Variations: Praskovia
- Namesakes: Countess Praskovya Aleksandrovna Bruce, a Russian lady-in-waiting to Catherine the Great. Countess Praskovya Sergeevna Uvarova, a Russian archeologist and chairman of the Moscow Archeological Society.
- Popularity: In 2014, 4,399 people worldwide were named Praskovya.
Radica
Radica has a solid footing in Slavic words that amount to a “happy” and “joyful” person, while in Sanskrit, it refers to the love of Krishna. Either way, Radica beams both joy and love to the world, just like the little girl you will name.
- Origin: Slavic, Sanskrit
- Meaning: Well disposed, happy, joyful, glad
- Pronunciation: RAH-dihts-Ah
- Variations: Rodica, Radhika
- Namesakes: Radica Jovicic, an Austrian actress. Radica Marinkovic, a Serbian actress.
- Popularity: In 2014, almost 12,000 people were named Radica worldwide, with the most occurrences in Serbia.
Raisa
Raisa is a beautiful Russian girl’s name with roots from the old Greek “rhadios,” for Rose, and possibly a form of Rachel. Raisa lives above these different strands of meaning to remain a firm, iconic name for a little girl to call her own.
- Origin: Russian, Greek, Yiddish
- Meaning: Rose, easygoing, adaptable, relaxed
- Pronunciation: RAA-Iy-saa
- Variations: Raissa, Ra’eesa, Ra’isa, Raissah, Raiza
- Namesakes: Raisa Gorbachev, wife of the former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Raisa Soltamuradovna Akhmatova, an internationally recognized Chechen poet.
- Popularity: Raisa is the 2,725th most common name worldwide and is the 131st in Russia.
Roza
Roza is the Slavic form of Rose used everywhere from Poland and The Netherlands to Russia and Armenia. No matter where you are, your little flower will love this sweet and classic name with a unique spelling.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: ROW-zaa
- Variations: Rosa, Rozsa, Rauza
- Namesakes: Roza Anagnosti, an Albanian film and stage actress. Fatemeh Bahrayni (known as Roza Mantazemi), an Iranian cookbook author best known for Honar-e Aashpazi (The Art of Cooking).
- Popularity: Roza is the 3,691st most popular name worldwide, ranked 38th in Armenia.
Samira
Samira and its many variations lead back to Arabic and Turkish beginnings. Due to the Turkish invasion and influence in many Balkan countries, Samira managed to live on. Samira could keep living strong for your little one too.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Pleasant community, evening companion
- Pronunciation: Saa-MIHR-aa
- Variations: Samirah, Sameera, Sameerah, Sameara, Sameira
- Namesakes: Samira Shahbandar, an Iraqi former doctor and physician and second wife of Saddam Hussein. Samira Mighty, an English TV personality and actress, best known for appearing in the 2017 film Beauty and the Beast.
- Popularity: Samira is the 475th most popular name worldwide, with the most occurrences in Iran.
Slavica
Slavica is not only the feminine form of Slavko, but is a diminutive version of the female name Slavka. “Little” Slavka became Slavica and, with it, all the Slavic glory that you can dream up for the life of the little girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Glory, fame, Slav
- Pronunciation: SLAAH-vihtz-Ah
- Variations: Slavka
- Namesakes: Slavica Ecclestone, a Croatian former model and the ex-wife of former Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone. Slavica Jeremić, a Yugoslav/Serbian handball player who competed in the 1980 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: In 2014, close to 100,000 people were named Slavica, with the most occurrences in Serbia and Croatia.
Sonja
Sonja is the Slavic spelling of the original Greek Sophia, meaning “wisdom.” Sophia traditionally refers to the feminine part of the Holy Trinity represented by the Holy Ghost. Sonja is a gorgeous classic that will live on forever, especially for your little girl.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom
- Pronunciation: ZAON-yaa
- Variations: Sonia, Sonya
- Namesakes: Sonja Bakić, a Serbian singer and songwriter. Sonja Kovač, a Croatian actress, model, and singer.
- Popularity: Sonja ranks just over the top 2,000 most popular girl names worldwide, while the Sonia version ranks 176th globally.
Sophia
Sophia is an original name from ancient Greek representing the personification of wisdom. Sophia has up to 35 variations, so there are loads of choices when deciding which wise lady best suits the little girl in your life.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom
- Pronunciation: Sow-FIY-ah
- Variations: Sofia, Sofiya, Sofija, Sophea, Sofya
- Namesakes: Sofia Costanza Brigida Villani Scicolone (known as Sophia Loren), an Italian actress known as one of the greatest female stars of Hollywood. Sophia Yan, an American classical pianist, journalist, and Beijing correspondent at The Daily Telegraph.
- Popularity: Sophia is the 1,393rd most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Tanzania.
Stanislava
The traditional Stanislava has its origins in “stani,” meaning “stand,” and “slava,” meaning “glory.” Stanislav is the male equivalent of Stanislava. This old-world name of vintage glory can be yours to pass onto your little queen.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Strength, fame, glory, Slav
- Pronunciation: Staa-niy-SLAA-vaa
- Variations: Stanislawa, Stanislavah, Stanyslava
- Namesakes: Stanislava Brezovar, a Slovenian ballerina. Stanislava Stanislavovna Komarova, a Russian swimmer who won the silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: In 2014, about 65,000 people were named Stanislava worldwide and ranked 124th in the Czech Republic.
Svetlana
Though Svetlana has its roots in Slavic culture, it resembles the name Sweta in Sanskrit. The nickname for Svetlana is Sveta and also means “saint” in Bulgarian. Svetlana is Orthodox but can exist on its own terms for your little saint Svetlana.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Light, shining, blessed, holy
- Pronunciation: SvyehT-LAA-naa
- Variations: Svjetlana, Svitlana
- Namesakes: Svetlana Vasilyevna Khorkina, a Russian artistic gymnast who won 7 Olympic medals. Svetlana Iosifovna Alliluyeva, the only daughter of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.
- Popularity: Svetlana is the 79th most popular name worldwide and ranks 13th in Russia.
Tamara
Tamara travels through Russian origins to Arabic roots, where it still means “palm tree,” “date,” or “date palm.” Tamara has enjoyed life as a common name in many Slavic countries and can help the baby girl you’re expecting grow into a beautiful woman.
- Origin: Slavic, Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Palm tree
- Pronunciation: Taa-MAA-raa
- Variations: Temara, Tamera
- Namesakes: Tamara Ilyinichna Sinyavskaya, a Russian mezzo-soprano from the Bolshoi Theater. Tamara Mellon, the British co-founder of luxury footwear brand Jimmy Choo.
- Popularity: Tamara is the 619th most popular name worldwide, mostly heard in Ukraine.
Tanja
Tanja is the Slavic spelling of Tatiana, and is not as popular as that name. Tanja is a simple version of a very traditional name meaning “fairy queen,” so break out the fairy tales for your Slavic-inspired queen of nature.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Fairy queen
- Pronunciation: TAAN-yaa
- Variations: Tanya, Tania, Taanya, Táňa
- Namesakes: Tanja Kiridžić, a Croatian team handball player who plays on the Croatian national team. Tanja Mirjam Cecilia Lorentzon (also known as Tanja Svedjeström), a Sweden-Finnish actress best known for The Girl Who Played with Fire and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets’ Nest.
- Popularity: Tanja is the 3,080th most common name worldwide, with the most occurrences in Germany.
Tatijana
Tatijana arose out of the Latin name Tatius, referring to Titus Tatius, the ancient king of the Sabines, an Italian tribe near Rome. Tatijana also means “fairy queen,” just as Tanja does. You may get swept away by this magical name with the fairy princess in your life.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Fairy queen, fairy princess
- Pronunciation: Taht-ee-YAHN-ah
- Variations: Tatiana, Tatyana, Tatjana
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,541 people were named Tatijana worldwide, while the spelling Tatiana ranking #321.
Teodora
Teodora is a mostly Serbian version of the ancient Greek Theodora. The most famous Byzantine empress of Constantinople was Queen Theodora, who was of Greek descent. Teodora will keep the tradition going with your new world queen with its royal associations.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Gift of God
- Pronunciation: Teh-ao-DAO-raa
- Variations: Theodora
- Namesakes: Teodora Poštič, a former Slovenian figure skater, a four-time national champion. Teodora Sava, a Romanian singer and former contestant of X-Factor Romania.
- Popularity: Teodora is the 3,393rd most common name worldwide, with the most usage in Mexico, the Philippines, and Peru.
Urszula
The root of Urszula is Ursa, which is a diminutive of “bear,” so a “little she-bear” becomes the meaning of this beautiful name. The concept of a “little she-bear” is an adorable inspiration for you to name your little girl Urszula.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Little she-bear
- Pronunciation: UHR-shuw-Laa
- Variations: Ursula, Ursola
- Namesakes: Urszula Danuta Augustyn, a member of the Polish parliament. Urszula Meyerin, a Polish courtier and mistress to King Sigismund III of Poland.
- Popularity: Urszula ranks in the top 10,000 names worldwide, and is ranked 83rd in Poland.
Ustinya
Ustinya is a Russian form of the Latin Justina. Ustinya represents the powerful symbol of “justice” and “fairness” in the world. Let the gavel come down in favor of naming your little peacemaker Ustinya.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Fair, just
- Pronunciation: USH-teen-yah
- Variations: Justina, Justyna, Jusztina
- Namesakes: Ustinya Malinina, a Russian pop singer, and daughter of the People’s Artist of Russia Alexander Malinin.
- Popularity: In 2014, 411 people were named Ustinya worldwide, with the most usage in Russia.
Valentina
Valentina arose from the Latin “valens,” which means “healthy” and “strong.” Both feminine in tone and strong in meaning, Valentina is a beautiful way to honor the past and give a great future to the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Healthy, strong
- Pronunciation: Vaa-Lehn-TIY-naa
- Variations: Valantina, Valentena, Valentyna, Valenteena
- Namesakes: Valentina Carretta, an Italian racing cyclist who competed in the 2013 UCI women’s team time trial. Valentina de Angelis, an American actress, best known for the series Gossip Girl.
- Popularity: Valentina is the 376th most popular name worldwide, with the most usage in Russia.
Valeria
Valeria is a Latin-based name that uses different spellings in many Slavic countries. Valeria is both feminine and strong. It can offer a centuries-long usage of a popular name for your baby girl to enjoy.
- Origin: Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Strong, brave, health
- Pronunciation: Vaa-LEY-Ryaa
- Variations: Valerya, Valaria, Veleria, Valerija, Waleria
- Namesakes: Valeria Golino, an Italian actress who has twice won the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival. Valeria Maximovna Zenkova, a Russian ice dancer who placed 4th at the 2013 World Junior Championships.
- Popularity: Valeria is the 1,555th most popular name worldwide, with the most usage in Brazil and Russia.
Velika
Velika is often added to the name of various towns and villages, from Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina to Serbia and Albania. It added “happy” or “great” to the place name, thereby improving it. Add Velika to your little girl’s life and improve upon it instantly.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Great, wondrous
- Pronunciation: VEH-lih-Kah
- Variations: Velicca, Velicka, Velikah, Velycca, Velycka
- Namesakes: Velika Kolarova, a Bugarian film actress known for The Swimming Pool and Ne Se Sardi, Choveche.
- Popularity: In 2014, 14,430 people were named Velika worldwide, with the most usage in Bulgaria.
Vesna
Vesna is the ancient Slavic goddess of spring. Let your little girl enjoy all the seasons, starting with the beautiful spring name Vesna.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Spring
- Pronunciation: VESS-znaa
- Variations: Vesnaa, Vesnah, Vezna
- Namesakes: Vesna Györkös Žnidar, the former Slovenian Minister of Interior. Vesna Krmpotić, a Croatian writer whose book A Hill Above The Clouds is considered one of the best Croatian novels.
- Popularity: Vesna is the 7,056th most common name worldwide, with the most occurrences in Serbia and Croatia.
Viktoriya
Victoriya is a Russian spelling of the Latin Victoria, which has indicated a Roman “V for victory” since ancient times.
- Origin: Slavic, Russian, Latin
- Meaning: Victory
- Pronunciation: Vihk-TOHR-ee-Uh
- Variations: Victorya, Victoria, Victorija
- Namesakes: Viktoriya Kutuzova, a tennis player from Ukraine with a top world ranking of 76. Viktoriya Viktorovna Tolstoganova, a Russian film and theater actress who performed at the Moscow Art Theater.
- Popularity: Viktoriya is the 521st most popular name worldwide and is ranked 31st in Russia.
Violeta
Violeta is a diminutive of the Latin name Viola. This pretty little violet moniker will grow in leaps and bounds for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Violet
- Pronunciation: VEE-ow-LEHT-aa
- Variations: Violetta, Wioletta
- Namesakes: Violeta Andrei, a Romanian theater and film actress who acted at the Bulandra Theater in Bucharest. Violeta Barrios Torres de Chamorro, the only female President of Nicaragua from 1990 to 1997.
- Popularity: Violeta is the 2,773rd most popular name worldwide, with the most usage in the Philippines.
Volha
Volha is a Slavic variation of the names Olga and Helga. It is used in Belarus more than any other Slavic country. Volha is an unusual yet spirited name for any little girl to feel blessed with.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Holy, blessed
- Pronunciation: VOHL-ha
- Variations: Olga
- Namesakes: Volha Khizhynkova, a Belarusian journalist and beauty pageant contestant, crowned Miss Belarus in 2008. Volha Alyaksandrauna Sudarava, a Belarusian long jumper who won the silver medal at the 2012 European Championships in Helsinki.
- Popularity: In 2014, 876 people were named Volha worldwide, ranking 1,325th in Belarus.
Yarmilla
Yarmilla comes from the Russian devotion to the pagan sun god called Yarilo, the god of vegetation, spring, war, and harvest. There is quite a history associated with Yarmilla, and this unusual name can bring it all back to life for your baby girl.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Trader, ardent, sweet
- Pronunciation: Yaar-MIHL-ah
- Variations: Jarmilla, Yarmila, Yarmyla, Yarmylla
- Popularity: In 2014, 24 people were named Yarmilla worldwide, with 16 located in the U.S.
Yelena
Yelena is a Slavic variation on the ancient Greek Helen, which means “torch” or “light.” Yelena has many variations, and the “Y” version is typically a Russian one. Give your little girl a classy and broad name and expect big things.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Shining light
- Pronunciation: YEH-leh-Naa
- Variations: Jelena, Elena, Jalena
- Namesakes: Yelena Nikolayevna Baturina, the richest woman in Russia until February 2020. Yelena Alekseyevna Koreneva, a Soviet and Russian theater, and film actress and writer.
- Popularity: In 2014, 53,974 people were named Yelena worldwide, and ranked 50th in Israel.
Yulia
Yulia is a beautiful way to give your sweet daughter a very common, traditional name (Julia) with a uniquely Russian spelling. Yulia is all about love and represents youth, just as she will for you.
- Origin: Russian, Slavic, Latin
- Meaning: Youthful, love’s child
- Pronunciation: YUW-lyah
- Variations: Yulya, Julia, Julja, Julija, Yuliya
- Namesakes: Yulia Leonidovna Latynina, a Russian writer, journalist, and host at the Echo of Moscow radio station. Yulia Stanislavovna Savicheva, a Russian singer who represented Russia in the 2004 Eurovision Song Contest.
- Popularity: Yulia is the 1,043rd most common name worldwide, and ranked 59th in Russia.
Zaria
Zaria is the Slavic goddess of the dawn who connects to the Arabic Zahrah. She is also the personification of the morning star. Whether your little girl is born at night or in the morning, this unique name may suit her charms.
- Origin: Slavic, Arabic
- Meaning: Princess, Sunrise, Dawn
- Pronunciation: ZAA-riy-Ah
- Variations: Zarya, Zareya, Zariya, Zarria
- Popularity: In 2014, 10,976 people were named Zaria worldwide, with most occurrences in Sudan.
Željka
Željka is a very Serbo-Croatian name that captures all your hopes and dreams in your beloved daughter. Bring your #1 wish into this world and give her this unique Slavic name for girls that she can make her own.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Desire, wish
- Pronunciation: ZHEL-kah
- Variations: Zelja
- Namesakes: Željka Krizmanić, a Croatian figure skater, three-time national bronze medalist, and two-time national silver medalist. Željka Antunović, the only female Croatian acting president of the Social Democratic Party.
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,891 people were named Zeljka worldwide, mostly in the U.S., Germany, and Croatia.
Zena
If you trace back the origin of Zena in ancient Greek, it means “life of Zeus,” but the word “zena” in Serbo-Croatian means “woman.” The diverse meanings make the deceptively simple Zena far more than the warrior princess you thought she was.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Guest, hospitable
- Pronunciation: ZEH-naa
- Variations: Zeina, Zenah, Zina, Xenia
- Namesakes: Zena McNally, an English radio presenter and former member of the girl-group Mis-Teeq. Zena Tsarfin, an American journalist who worked with High Times, XXL, and Cracked magazines.
- Popularity: Zena is the 7,966th most common name worldwide, and ranked 184th in Tanzania.
Zivka
Zivka is a simpler, shorter form of the Slavic Zivanka. The “full of life” meaning of Zivka arose from the Serbo-Croatian word for “life,” živ. Bring life to the girl you’ve brought into the world with this vivacious, cool name.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Full of life
- Pronunciation: ZIHV-kah
- Variations: Zhivka
- Namesakes: Zivka Matic, a Yugoslav and Serbian actress known for the TV series Otpisani and Gradjani Sela Luga. Zivka Park, a French politician and member of the National Assembly for the 9th constituency of the Val-d’Oise department.
- Popularity: In 2014, 625 people worldwide were named Zivka, with the most occurrences in Austria.
Zlata
Zlata is a common name in many South Slavic countries and is popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina because it is considered ethnically neutral. This special name can be the golden crown on the head of the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Golden
- Pronunciation: ZLAH-tah
- Variations: Zlatah, Zlatta, Zlattah
- Namesakes: Zlata Filipović, a Bosnian-Irish writer who kept a diary as a child living in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. Zlata Nikolaevna Bizova, a Russian Soviet realist painter and graphic artist.
- Popularity: In 2014, 54,891 people were named Zlata worldwide, while Zlata ranked 128th in Croatia.
Zorrah
Zorrah sounds famous the moment you hear it. Zorrah dates back to the Slavic goddess of the dawn Zaria and is a stylish version of that meaning. Zorrah is a hard-to-find name, so take it down and bring it back for your sweet baby goddess.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: ZAOR-aa
- Variations: Zora, Zorah
- Popularity: In 2014, 11 people were named Zorrah worldwide, 3 of which were in the U.S.
Zośka
The unique Zośka somehow works its way back to the Greek Sophia (Zofia in Polish), the personification of wisdom. The fascinating Zośka is Polish and will add more than wisdom as a name for the little girl in your life.
- Origin: Slavic, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom, knowledge
- Pronunciation: ZOSCH-kaa
- Variations: Zofka
- Namesakes: Zośka Vieras (pen name of Liudvika Sivickaja-Vojcik), a Belarusian writer, initiator, and active participant of the Belarusian national revival.
- Popularity: In 2014, 376 people were named Zośka, with the most usage in Poland.
