Alexey

Alexey is a masculine given name common in Russia and other Slavic countries. It derives from the Greek name Alexios, from the verb aléxoō meaning to defend, help, or protect, so the name is typically understood as “defender” or “helper.” The form has appeared in Christian contexts through Saint Alexius of Rome, contributing to its enduring use in Orthodox regions.

Variants and transliterations include Aleksei, Aleksey, Aleksej, Alexei, and Alexey. In Ukrainian and Belarusian, forms such as Oleksiy and Alyeksiy are used. Diminutives in Russian include Alyosha, Lyosha, Lesha, and Lyoshka, reflecting affectionate or familiar usage.

Usage and cultural context: The name is traditional in Russia and the broader Slavic world and remains common in the former Soviet states. It has appeared across literature, film, and public life, often carried by figures in science, politics, athletics, and the arts. The diverse transliterations reflect the influence of different alphabets and languages in the region.

Notable people: Notable bearers include Alexey Pajitnov, the Russian computer engineer who created the video game Tetris, and Alexei Navalny, a Russian opposition politician and anti-corruption activist. The name is also borne by many other professionals and public figures across fields due to its long-standing popularity in Russian-speaking communities.