Christopher
Bearer of Christ — a boy name of Greek origin
Popularity of Christopher in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Christopher
Christopher derives from the Greek name Christophoros, composed of "Christos" (Christ) and "pherein" (to bear or carry). The name is associated with the legend of Saint Christopher, who is said to have carried the Christ child across a treacherous river, making him the patron saint of travelers. Christopher was one of the most popular boy names in the English-speaking world from the 1960s through the 1990s, consistently ranking in the top 10. While it has gradually declined from its peak, Christopher retains a classic, substantial feel and remains well-loved by parents who appreciate timeless names.
Christopher Around the World
Christopher is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 31+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Christopher
Famous People Named Christopher
- Christopher Columbus — Italian explorer
- Christopher Nolan — British-American filmmaker (Inception, The Dark Knight)
- Christopher Walken — American actor
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Sibling Name Ideas for Christopher
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Christopher mean?
Christopher is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Bearer of Christ." Christopher derives from the Greek name Christophoros, composed of "Christos" (Christ) and "pherein" (to bear or carry). The name is associated with the legend of Saint Christopher, who is said to have carried the Christ child across a treacherous river, making him the patron saint of travelers.
How do you pronounce Christopher?
Christopher is pronounced KRIS-tuh-fer. Common variations include Cristopher, Kristopher, Christoffer.
Is Christopher a boy name?
Yes, Christopher is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Chris, Kit, Topher, Kris.
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