Slavic boy names are steeped in a rich history of culture and tradition, with influences from ancient Hebrew, Arabic, Greek, and Roman cultures. These names often have multiple variations and meanings, making it easy to get lost in their world.
However, this super-organized list will guide you through the different names, their famous namesakes, pronunciations, and much more. If you’re looking for a meaningful and stylish name for your little Balkan king, Slavic boy names offer plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you want a unique or traditional name, these names are sure to distinguish and elevate your child’s character.
Table of Contents
- 105 Powerful Slavic Names for Boys
- Aleksandr
- Alexei
- Anatoli
- Andrzej
- Anton
- Antonijo
- Arman
- Arseni
- Artemi
- Blagoje
- Bogdan
- Boris
- Boško
- Bozo
- Branko
- Danil
- Darijo
- Darko
- Davor
- Demyan
- Dmitri
- Dmitrik
- Dobroslav
- Dragan
- Duje
- Efim
- Elmir
- Emil
- Ēriks
- Evgeny
- Fedor
- Filip
- Franjo
- Gabrijel
- Gedeon
- Georgi
- Goran
- Grigor
- Gustav
- Hedeon
- Igor
- Ilari
- Ilija
- Ivan
- Jaka
- Jakov
- Jeramie
- Josef
- Kamil
- Karlen
- Karol
- Kesar
- Konstantin
- Krsto
- Lev
- Ludomir
- Luka
- Maksim
- Marek
- Marin
- Mario
- Marko
- Maroš
- Matej
- Mihael
- Mikhail
- Milan
- Miloje
- Milorad
- Miloš
- Similar Name Lists
- Mirko
- Natan
- Nemanja
- Nikola
- Oleg
- Ondra
- Ondrej
- Pasha
- Pavel
- Petar
- Radomir
- Radovan
- Risto
- Roko
- Rolan
- Roman
- Samo
- Sava
- Sergei
- Simeon
- Slavko
- Stanimir
- Stjepan
- Stoyan
- Szymon
- Toma
- Tonči
- Vasil
- Viktor
- Vlado
- Yeremey
- Yuri
- Zavid
- Živko
- Zlatko
105 Powerful Slavic Names for Boys
Find the manliest Slavic boy names to impress your little boy.
Aleksandr
Aleksandr is the Eastern European version of Alexander. It is used most in Russia and Armenia. Aleksandr has many variations, so you’ve got plenty to choose from when you give your little helper boy a name.
Alexei
Alexei is rooted in the Greek Aléxios and the Latin Alexius. You could use the Alexei spelling, or Aleksey, or much more. There are so many variations that differ by one letter. Which Alexei will your little boy be?
Anatoli
There is a region called Anatolia constituting the majority of Turkey, which might be one reason Anatoli means “the east.” Anatoli is an informal version of an old-world name that could make your little boy seem a bit more royal.
Andrzej
Andrzej is the Polish spelling of Andrew, which originated from the Greek word for “man.” This solid, strong name could work for your first little boy or your second or third.
Anton
Anton is derived from the Latin surname Antonius and its meaning “praiseworthy.” Shower your baby boy with this straightforward, popular name.
Antonijo
Antonijo is the Croatian and Slovenian spelling of Antonio, and uses everything from Anton to Tonći as a nickname. This beautiful classic name with an unusual spelling might be the perfect combination for the little boy in your life.
Arman
Arman has the word “man” in it, indicating many kinds of men, from “army” man and “honorable” man to “poor” man and simply “man.” Arman is a unisex name that can bring the strength of the Slavic past to your little boy today.
Arseni
Arseni is a Russian name derived from Arsenius. Arsenius the Great (one of the Roman “Desert Fathers”) influenced the study of contemplative life. Contemplative or strong, your little guy may love this cool, powerful name.
Artemi
Artemi is a Russian name initially indicating a follower of Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, and the moon. Artemi is a manly name, also cute for the little hunter boy you’re expecting.
Blagoje
Blagoje is rooted in Serbia and dates back to the Middle Ages. This lesser-known Medieval name has all the sweetest meanings attached to it for the sweet guy in your life.
Bogdan
Bogdan is one of those old Slavic names for boys that combines two words: “bog,” meaning “God,” and “dan,” meaning “gift.” You can give Bogdan to the little boy you know whom you consider your gift from God.
Boris
Boris was first recorded for the Bulgarian Prince Boris in the 9th-century, who adopted Christianity in AD 864. The meaning is “small,” but also “battle glory.” Boris is relatively popular worldwide, so your charming little Boris would fit right in.
Boško
Bosko means “gift from God,” while the surname Boško came from the Balkan word “bosu,” meaning “barefoot.” Lighthearted or deep, this uncommon name will make life more interesting for your gorgeous boy.
Bozo
Bozo is an informal nickname for Božidar, which is much easier to pronounce. Unlike the English “BOH-zo” pronunciation, Bozo is pronounced BO-zho. If you’re looking for that super-unique name for your little guy, Bozo could be it!
Branko
Branko is a South Slavic nickname for Branislav. Branko is a strong name with all the “protector” and “defender” meanings of classic Slavic male names. Your little Branko will likely be the #1 strong guy in your life.
Danil
Danil is the central Asian and Russian version of the classic Hebrew name Daniel. Despite the lofty meaning, Danil feels like the modern name of a cool, sexy, smart guy. Your special boy will make the best example of this awesome name.
Darijo
Darijo is a rare Croatian spelling of the more common Dario. Dario originates from the Latin Darius, which stands for “wealth” and being “kingly.” Since it is not common, Darijo could be the special version of this ancient name for your little king to enjoy.
Darko
Darko is a South Slavic name dating back to the 14th-century. Outside of Serbo-Croatian culture, Darko is uncommon so you might enjoy one of the only Darko’s around.
Davor
Davor originally referred to the prehistoric Slavic god of war, who was the equivalent to the god Mars. It can mean both “joy” and “sorrow.” Davor embraces both sides and will be the perfect cloak for your little god to wear.
Demyan
Demyan is a Russian and Ukrainian version of the Greek Damian. There was a Syrian St. Damian who was a 4th-century martyr and patron saint of physicians. Demyan is a great way to let your little boy know how great a doctor can be.
Dmitri
Dmitri is a Russian name that refers to any follower of Demeter, the ancient goddess of fertility and farming. This earthy Slav name will keep things organic for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Dmitrik
Dmitrik is rooted in the Greek name Demetrius, pointing to followers of the goddess Demeter. Dmitrik is extremely rare, not chosen as much as Dmitri or Dmitry. This earthy boy’s name could be the only Dmitrik around for miles.
Dobroslav
Dobroslav breaks down into two elements: “dobro,” meaning “good,” and “slav,” meaning “glory” or “fame.” The best Slavs are meant for this name, so give Dobroslav to the best little guy you know.
Dragan
Not all Slavic male names point to power and glory. Dragan might sound like a warlord’s name, but it means “dear” and “beloved.” The meanings here allow this badass name to bring with it a gentle aura for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Duje
Duje is an informal version of the Latin dominus, a title given to Roman emperors after Emperor Augustus. Duje is quite rare outside of Croatia, but its “lordly” simplicity will fit nicely for the cute royal boy in your life.
Efim
Efim is a Russian variation of the ancient Greek Euthymios. The Greek and Latin Euthymius pointed to orthodox or saintly individuals. Whether he’s a saint or not, your little boy could rock the name Efim like no other.
Elmir
Elmir is used in Slavic cultures but is also tied to Scandinavian and old English origins. Meaning “noble,” Elmir is an old-world name that might fit your new-world boy.
Emil
Emil was born out of the Latin Aemilius from the surname Aemilia, one of the noblest families of ancient Rome. Their highfalutin reputation stayed attached to this special name. Use Emil to bring some nobility to your baby boy’s life.
Ēriks
Ēriiks is widely used in Latvia and Russia, but has Old Norse origins. Ēriks is an unusual version of the more popular Eric or Erik. Will the baby boy you’re expecting be an eternal ruler? Naming him Ēriks won’t hurt his chances anyway.
Evgeny
Evgeny is the Russian form of the somewhat popular name Eugene, which came from the Greek for “well-born” or being of good stock. You can pass this honor down to your little Evgeny with this unique, vintage name.
Fedor
Fedor is a Slavic version of Theodore, which dates back to the ancient Greek Theodoros, which also means “gift of God.” Give this divine name to your little boy in your life and watch him grow.
Filip
Filip is a Dutch and Slavic version of Philip, emanating from the old greek Philippos. Filip is uniquely personal with its meaning, “lover of horses.” You can give your new sweet boy this beautiful, sensitive name to stand out from the crowd.
Franjo
Franjo is a Croatian variation of Franko, which arose from the Medieval Franciscus. Franjo indicated someone “of the Franks,” or French. He may not be French, but your Franjo will have this freedom-loving name to make his own.
Gabrijel
Gabrijel is a Serbo-Croatian version of Gabriel, which dates back to ancient Hebrew as an archangel in the Bible. This unique spelling of a recognized name may give Gabrijel wings for the little angel in your life.
Gedeon
Gedeon, also known as Gideon, was a military leader and prophet, recorded in the Book of Judges in the Bible, known as a man of great faith. Gedeon isn’t around much these days name-wise, so you can have this unique, powerful reminder of a man for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Georgi
While Georgi is a Russian form of George, the root word dates back to ancient Greek for “farmer” or “one who tills the soil.” You can cloak your little boy with this earthiest of Slavic boy names and watch him grow.
Goran
Goran is a traditional Slavic name for a “mountain man,” not to be confused with the Swedish Göran, the Scandinavian version of George. This mountain man’s moniker can be all yours for the tough little boy in your life.
Grigor
Grigor is a Russian spelling of the popular name Gregory. One of the most famous was Gregory the Illuminator, the original head of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This holy name can help bless the little boy you’re expecting.
Gustav
Gustav intermingles Slavic traditions with Germanic and Scandinavian ones. While many Swedish kings have used Gustav, it is also widely used throughout Europe. Your Gustav could reign supreme as the kid with the coolest name ever.
Hedeon
Hedeon is a Russian version of the Hebrew Gideon, which appeared in the Book of Judges in the Bible. The specific “feller of trees” meaning makes this pastoral name a rare gem you can give to the baby boy in your life.
Igor
Igor is a Belarusian name that’s more common lately, not only due to its long history but also because of its reputation as a manly name. Igor came from the Old Norse Ingvar, so it does double-duty as the strong, powerful name for the little Igor you’re expecting.
Ilari
Ilari is a unique version of the Latin name Hilarius. St. Hilary was a figure from Gaul (now France) whose name also meant “happy” or “cheerful.” You can bestow this old-world smile on your little boy and enjoy the results.
Ilija
Ilija is a South Slavic version of the traditional Biblical Elijah. With its religious meaning and unique sound, Ilija could be the divine name you’ve been looking for to give your newest treasure.
Ivan
The very popular Slavic Ivan is rooted in ancient Greek Ioannes. Ivan is the Slavic variation on the super common John, Ian, or Johan/Jan. You can have an extra-special version of John in your little boy’s name.
Jaka
Jaka is the Slovenian form of Jakob or James, but can also mean “gentleman” in Indonesian. You can have your pick of meanings, but this short, snappy name may perfectly enchant the little boy in your life once it’s his.
Jakov
Jakov is the Serbo-Croatian spelling of the old Hebrew Jacob, also used in Dutch, English, German, and Scandinavian cultures. Jakov is pronounced with the “J” as a “Y” so it has a more Slavic feel for the little angel in your life.
Jeramie
Jeremie is the Russian version of the Hebrew Jeremy, known as the “weeping prophet” in the Bible. The inspiring history of Jeramie and the unusual spelling make this a special name for your boy to enjoy.
Josef
Josef is the Slavic variation of Joseph, one of the most important figures in the Bible. Josef’s meaning is one of endless strength and faith from above, so it will properly adorn the baby boy you’re expecting.
Kamil
Kamil might have originated from Camillus, a Roman family name with possible Etruscan origins. Kamil is also a Turkish name that may have made its way into Slavic culture. Your Kamil will enjoy a long history when he receives it.
Karlen
Karlen is a Latvian and Russian version of the classic Carl. Despite its feminine connotations, Karlen is a very cute variation of a very traditional Germanic name. Your little boy will rock Karlen all his own.
Karol
Karol is a Polish version of Charles or Carl. Karol is overwhelmingly used as a Polish and Slovak boys’ name, but you too can enjoy this interesting variation. Karol and “freedom” go together well, so take advantage of the little Karol you’re bound to adore.
Kesar
Kesar is a uniquely Russian take on the Latin Caesar, which was used as the title for Roman emperors after the death of Julius Caesar (which became Tsar and Czar in Russia). Kesar is a kingly name your little boy can stake his kingdom upon.
Konstantin
Konstantin uses a Russian spelling that originated from the Latin Constantinus. From Roman emperors to Byzantine royalty, Konstantin has been used for famous leaders in history. Your little monarch boy may love this outstanding name.
Krsto
Krsto is a Serbo-Croatian spelling of Kristo, the Slavic version of the Scandinavian Christian or the English Christopher. Krsto is a concise nickname that works on its own for the gorgeous boy you’re naming.
Lev
Lev is a Russian and Czech form of Leo, likely originating from the Hebrew Levi. Lev often appears as a surname for many Israeilis. Lev has the heart of a lion in its three letters and could fit the baby boy in your life nicely.
Ludomir
Ludomir is mostly used as a Polish name but has Slavic origins. This name might sound old-fashioned but has the universal, inspiring meaning of “peace” and “love.”
Luka
Luka is a Slavic spelling of Luca, which originally pointed to a person from Lucania, Italy. “Lucus” in Latin also meant “sacred wood.” This cute version of Lucas will inject new life into an old classic for your baby boy.
Maksim
Maksim is a Slavic variation of Maxim, which arose from the ancient Roman Maximus, meaning “the greatest.” This strong Slavic name for boys will suit the formidable presence that your little boy can grow up to have.
Marek
Marek is the mostly Polish version of Mark, or the ancient Roman Marcus. Marek dates back to the Roman god of war, Mars. This strong, powerful Slavic name will command respect for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Marin
A group of early Latin saints were named Marinus, the root word for the Slavic Marin, which was later associated with the sea. Your little sea captain may enjoy having this unique, unisex name on his adventures.
Mario
Mario originated from the Latin Marius. It also referred to Mars, the Roman god of war, which gave it the “hammer” meaning. The ancient divine strength of Mario makes it super popular worldwide. Why should your little god be any different?
Marko
Marko is a Slavic spelling of the Latin Marcus, which is one of many names that refers to Mars, the Roman god of war. Marko has the most direct meaning “of Mars.” Your little deity will feel the power of this great Slavic name.
Maroš
Maroš is a Slovak nickname for Marek. It is a name rarely used outside of Slovakia these days, so you can have this special version of Marek/Mark for your little boy to make his own.
Matej
Matej is the Slavic variation of the Hebrew Matthew. If the “j” at the end feels too complicated, you can use the diminutive “Mate,” which carries the same meaning for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Mihael
Mihael is a mostly Croatian and Slovenian version of the Hebrew Michael. The unusual spelling will add some new life to the classic Biblical Mihael for your little boy.
Mikhail
Mikhail comes from the Hebrew Michael and was given to two Russian Tsars, in addition to Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet leader. Mikhail is very common, but would land as a unique name instead of the typical Michael for your little boy.
Milan
Milan was originally used as a nickname for Slavic boy names that began with Mil. This unique, easy-to-pronounce name has all the good intentions in its “loving” meaning. Show some love to your little boy with this cool Slavic name.
Miloje
Miloje is mostly a Serbian diminutive which indicates any name beginning with Mil. Miloje is a cute version of a typical Slavic name spelling that would be equally as cute for the new boy in your life.
Milorad
Milorad breaks down into “milo,” meaning “gracious care,” and “rad,” meaning “work or joy.” You can teach your little boy how to find joy in working at something he loves with this old-world Slavic name for boys.
Miloš
Miloš is a shorter variation of the Slavic Miroslav and a version of the English Miles. Miloš is a “lover of glory” and brings the tradition of strong Slavic names home to the special little guy you know.
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Mirko
Mirko is a diminutive of the Czech Miroslav, the root name for many variations like Mirko, Miloš, and more like it. Mirko stands out as the most “peaceful” of the group, which would start your little boy off on the right foot in life.
Natan
Natan is a Slavic variation on the Hebrew Nathan. Natan is easy to say and still carries a faraway feel. The deep meaning “God has given” will adorn your little divine gift well when your baby boy arrives.
Nemanja
Nemanja is based on the root word “nemati,” meaning “have not.” Nemanja is for the man (and boy) who doesn’t need possessions to find real joy in life. It is a rare name to bestow on a special little boy.
Nikola
Nikola is the Slavic variation of Nicholas, derived from the Greek Nikolaos. The unisex Nikola is mostly given to boys, except in the Czech Republic, where it’s usually given to girls. Whatever you decide, Nikola is a classic Slavic namesake for your victorious little boy.
Oleg
Oleg is popular in Russian, Ukraine, and Belarus, derived from the Old Norse “Helge.” Oleg isn’t super popular worldwide, so you can help keep it going strong for the “blessed” little boy in your life.
Ondra
Ondra is a Czechoslovakian name that is a diminutive of Ondrej. The unisex Ondra also translates to Andreas, also considered unisex. This uncommon name will feel very special to the baby boy you’re expecting.
Ondrej
Ondrej is a mostly Czech-used form of Andrew, but originates from the Greek Andreas. Meaning “warrior,” Ondrej doesn’t have as much bite when spoken, so it can be the ideal balance of strong and soft for your little boy.
Pasha
Pasha comes from the Russian Pavel and Latin Paul. Pasha was also an honorary title given to important military personnel of the Ottoman Empire. It isn’t too macho, though, since Pasha is unisex, so it would still be a thoughtful name for your little guy.
Pavel
Pavel is the Russian version of the Latin Paul, which means “small.” Paul dates back to one of the most influential figures in Christianity. Pavel is very popular worldwide, especially in Russia, so you can easily give your little boy this unusual version of a classic name.
Petar
Petar is the Slavic variation of the Biblical name Peter. Peter is much more common than Petar, but Petar’s classical association with the “rock” of Christianity might sway you to use this version for your saintly little boy.
Radomir
Radomir is a very traditional Slavicmale name taken from the roots “rad,” meaning “happy” or “joy” and “mir,” meaning “world” or “fame.” The uncommonly used Radomir is an unforgettable way to add worldly happiness to your baby boy’s name.
Radovan
Radovan finds its “joyful” meaning in the Slavic root word “radovati,” meaning to have “care” and “joy.” This strong, traditional Slavic name isn’t too popular outside of Serbia, so you can happily give joy to the baby boy you’re expecting.
Risto
Risto is a short form of Christopher found in Finnish, Estonian, Macedonian, and Serbo-Croatian cultures. Risto means “hearer of Christ,” but, on the surface, feels light and modern. Risto could be the coolest name you find for your little boy.
Roko
Roko is a rare Croatian version of the Germanic Rachus, meaning “to roar.” While cute and informal, Roko (like Rocco) has all the strength of a lion in its four letters, so no lion’s mane is needed for the little Roko in your life.
Rolan
Rolan is an unusual Slavic name originating in French and German. Rolan is only mildly used in Russia, so you can be unique and use this vintage name for your famous little guy.
Roman
Roman is an iconic name and word dating back to the Roman Romanus and Greek Romanos. Roman instantly transports your little boy back to the days of ancient Rome, so jump on this very popular Slavic boy’s name and adorn your little Roman with its magic.
Samo
One of the oldest uses of Samo refers to the 7th-century leader of the Slavs. Samo is a Czech version of Samuel, and its “energetic, bouncy” meaning would likely fit the bill for the rambunctious baby boy you’re expecting.
Sava
Sava is the name of a famous tributary of the Danube River, which flows from Slovenia and Croatia through Bosnia & Herzegovina to the Serbian capital Belgrade. This powerful connection could flow through Sava for your little boy too.
Sergei
Sergei has Etruscan origins as the surname Sergius. Versions of Sergei have been peppered through time for Roman generals and Russian saints, among others. How famous will your little Sergei become with this strong, historical name?
Simeon
Simeon is a Slavic variation of the ancient Hebrew Simon and appears as five different figures in the Bible. Simeon is popular in certain parts of Africa and Asia currently, although this vintage spelling will make any Simon a better version as Simeon.
Slavko
If you’re looking for the ultimate proud Slavic name, Slavko could be perfect! Slavko comes from the root “slav,” meaning “glory” and “fame.” It is less used these days outside the former Yugoslavia, but Slavko can rise again for your little bundle of glory.
Stanimir
Stanimir is an unusual Slavic name dating back to medieval times and consists of “stani,” meaning “stand or become” and “miru,” meaning “peace or world.” Stanimir is best kept for the very special young boy who always makes your day.
Stjepan
Stjepan is a uniquely Croatian version of Stephen, which dates back to the ancient Greek Stephanos. Stjepan wears a “crown” with its meaning, so give this manly crown to the little boy in your life and name the most important king you know.
Stoyan
Stoyan means “to stand” and is a Bulgarian and Macedonian name. Stoyan is, as it says- remaining front and center as a name to be regarded. Though not widely used, Stoyan is a solid way to welcome your little boy into the world.
Szymon
Szymon is the Polish version of the Hebrew Simon. It doesn’t just mean “God has heard,” but can also mean “to be heard.” Let your little Szymon be heard by one and all with this unique and very classic Slavic name for boys.
Toma
Toma is a Slavic version of Thomas, originating from the Aramaic “t’om’a,” meaning “twin.” Toma will make the best name whether your little boy is part of a set of twins or outstanding all on his own.
Tonči
Tonči is a Croatian and Slovenian diminutive for Anton but stands on its own as a cool nickname. Like many Croatian and Slovenian names, Tonči has an Italian feel and will elevate this nickname into something special for your little guy.
Vasil
Vasil is the Slavic variation of the Greek Basileios, which translates to Basil. Vasil has royal connotations and would allow the young prince in your life to share in the glory of this noble name.
Viktor
Viktor is a Slavic variation of Victor, which dates back to the Latin “victorious,” meaning “conqueror.” This strong, Slavic name is very trendy because it’s outlasted the sands of time and is ready for your little boy to enjoy.
Vlado
Vlado carries with it great power the world over. Vlado is short for Vladimir and has named many such leaders in Slavic history. You may be ready to name your own little Vladimir-in-training and call him Vlado for short.
Yeremey
Yeremey is an unusual Russian spelling of the ancient Hebrew Jeremiah, better known as Jeremy. Yeremey is so rare that its usage barely registers globally. You can give your little one a unique version of this Biblical name.
Yuri
Yuri is the Russian version of the Greek George, and the Hebrew name Uri. Yuri has meanings that span the “light of God” to a humble “farmer.” The unisex Yuri is an ode to both sides of man and would be adorable for the baby boy you’re expecting.
Zavid
If you’re looking for a super popular name in rare form, then Zavid could be a winner. Zavid is a Russian form of the Hebrew David, and only differs by the first letter. Your little Zavid will be ready to shine with this great name.
Živko
Živko offers all the vivid cheer of a Slavic life well lived. This strong Bulgarian and Macedonian name could infuse some life-giving force to the little boy in your life once he’s ready to rule the world.
Zlatko
Zlatko is a very old, traditional option among our Slavic boy names. There couldn’t be a better description with a shiny feel. Zlatko is not often used outside of South Slavic cultures, so snatch up Zlatko for your golden child today.
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