KseniaКсения
/KSEH-nee-yah/
Ksenia is a Greek girl's name pronounced /KSEH-nee-yah/. A hospitable name that signifies a warm welcome and friendship toward strangers.
Meaning of Ksenia
A hospitable name that signifies a warm welcome and friendship toward strangers.
Ksenia is derived from the Ancient Greek word 'xenia,' representing the concept of ritualized guest-friendship. It stems from 'xenos,' meaning stranger or guest, and historically characterizes a person who is welcoming and hospitable to others.
- Origin
- Greek
- Pronunciation
- /KSEH-nee-yah/
Cultural background
The name remains highly popular across Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, where it is often associated with Orthodox Christian saints. In these cultures, it is frequently shortened to diminutive forms like Ksyusha or Senya.
Variations & nicknames
- Xenia
- Kseniya
- Oksana
- Ksyusha
- Ksana
- Xene
Famous people named Ksenia
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Saint Xenia of Saint Petersburg
A patron saint of St. Petersburg who lived as a 'fool-for-Christ' after her husband's death.
Religion · 18th century
Ksenia Solo
Latvian-Canadian actress known for her roles in Black Swan and Lost Girl.
Film · 2000s–present
Ksenia Sukhinova
Russian model and television host who was crowned Miss World 2008.
Fashion · 2000s–present
Ksenia Rappoport
Award-winning Russian actress known for her work in Italian and Russian cinema.
Film · 1990s–present
Ksenia Afanasyeva
Russian artistic gymnast and world champion on the floor exercise.
Sport · 2000s–2010s
Ksenia Sobchak
Russian public figure, TV anchor, and political candidate.
Politics · 2000s–present
Frequently asked about Ksenia
- What does Ksenia mean?
- Ksenia is a Greek name meaning 'hospitable' or 'welcoming to strangers,' derived from the concept of 'xenia' or guest-friendship.
- How do you pronounce Ksenia?
- It is typically pronounced 'KSEH-nyah,' with a soft 'k' sound blended quickly into the 's'.
- Is Ksenia a boy or girl name?
- Ksenia is traditionally and exclusively used as a feminine name.
- What is the most common nickname for Ksenia?
- In Slavic cultures, the most common diminutive or nickname for Ksenia is Ksyusha.
Love Ksenia? Get more names like it
We'll email you 5 fresh Greek names each week — free, no spam.
Compare Ksenia with…
Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.
More Greek names
See all Greek names- ArtemisἌρτεμις/AR-te-miss/
Named for the goddess of the hunt and the moon, it represents independence and nature.
- ThaliaΘάλεια/THAY-lee-ah/
One of the three Graces, her name means to flourish or to bloom.
- EvangelosΕυάγγελος/eh-VAN-ge-los/
A traditional and joyful name that means bringer of good news or messenger of good tidings.
- KarysΚάρυς/KAH-ris/
A melodic name derived from the word for grace and kindness.
- SpyridonΣπυρίδων/SPEE-ree-dhon/
This classic name refers to a spirit or a small basket, famously associated with the patron saint of Corfu.
- KyriakosΚυριάκος/kee-ree-AH-kos/
A noble name meaning of the Lord, often given to children born on a Sunday.
- Phoenix/FEE-niks/
The name refers to a mythical immortal bird that is reborn from its own ashes.
- ThalassaΘάλασσα/thuh-LAS-uh/
Derived from the ancient word for the sea, representing its vast and life-giving nature.