Nastja is a given name found in Eastern European countries, most notably as a diminutive form of the female name Anastazija, which itself derives from the Greek name Anastasia. While historically used as a feminine name, in Slovenia, Nastja has also been adopted as a unisex name. Etymology Nastja originates as a short form of Anastazija, the Croatian and Slovene variant of Anastasia, which is the feminine form of the male given name Anastasius. The Greek root anastasis means "resurrection," tying the name to Christian theology. The name's popularity spread through veneration of Saint Anastasia, a 4th-century Dalmatian martyr who died under the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Her cult gave the name prominence in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, leading to many regional and diminutive forms, including Nastja, Nastia, and Nastya. Cultural Significance and Usage In Slavic cultures, diminutive forms like Nastja are commonly used as affectionate or informal given names in everyday life. The name has gained broader recognition due to notable bearers, including Slovenian sports figures such as footballer Nastja Čeh, swimmer Nastja Govejšek, and tennis player Nastja Kolar. The form Nastassia appears in Belarusian, while Asya and other variants like Staša exist in Russian and Serbian. The related Russian name Anastasiya shares the same origin. Notable Bearers The global footprint of the name is further underscored by individuals such as Nastia Liukin (American Olympic gymnast), Nastya Kamenskih (Ukrainian singer), and the popular YouTube channel Like Nastya. While these personalities may not bear the exact form Nastja, they highlight the cross-cultural reach of this name group. In Slovenia, Nastja's unisex usage sets it apart from its strictly feminine roots elsewhere. Meaning: Diminutive of Anastazija, ultimately "resurrection" Origin: Greek, via Croatian and Slovene Type: Diminutive, given name Usage Regions: Slovenia, other Eastern European countries