What Are People From Russia Called?

Eastern Europe, Russia

The demonym for people from Russia is:

Russian

Pronunciation:

/ˈrʌʃən/

Ends in -ian — see how this suffix works

Ilya Efimovich Repin (1844-1930) - Portrait of Leo Tolstoy (1887)
Image via Wikimedia CommonsPublic domain

About Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world by area, spanning Eastern Europe and northern Asia, with Moscow as its capital. Its vast territory spans eleven time zones, from the western borders of Europe to the Pacific coast. Russian is the official language, with many other languages spoken across its republics. The country has a profound cultural heritage in literature, classical music, ballet, and architecture, with landmarks such as the Kremlin and Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow. Its landscapes range from European plains and Ural Mountains to the forests of Siberia and the volcanoes of Kamchatka. Russia's history includes imperial, Soviet, and modern eras, which together shape its distinctive character for travelers and researchers alike. Its rich museums, grand theatres, and vast natural reserves offer endless discovery.

Quick Facts about Russia
Population:
About 146 million (2024 est.)
Country:
Russia
Region:
Eastern Europe

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Russians live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

▶See more options

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Etymology of the Russia Demonym

From 'Rus'', the name of the Varangian (Norse) elite who founded the early East Slavic state. It may derive from an Old Norse word for 'rowers'.

Test Your Knowledge

Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!

Take a Quiz →

More demonyms from Eastern Europe

Discover demonyms from other places in this region