Sashenka

Sashenka is a Russian diminutive and pet form of Alexandra, itself the feminine counterpart of Alexander, which derives from the ancient Greek elements alexein, meaning to defend, and aner, meaning man. The name carries an affectionate, intimate quality typical of Russian diminutive formations and would be used among family and close friends rather than in formal contexts. Alexandra traces its use back to the Macedonian royal house and spread widely through the Greek and later Christian worlds. Related forms include Sasha, Shura, and Aleksandra.