Stephen
Crown, wreath — a boy name of Greek origin
Popularity of Stephen 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 Stephen
Stephen comes from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning "crown" or "wreath," referring to the victor's laurel wreath in ancient Greek athletic competitions. Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr, stoned to death in Jerusalem as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The name has been borne by kings of England, Hungary, and Poland, as well as numerous saints and popes. Stephen was one of the most popular boy names in the English-speaking world throughout the mid-20th century. Though it has declined somewhat in recent years, it remains a classic name with gravitas and historical weight.
Stephen Around the World
Stephen is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 35+ international variants.
Female FormStephanie
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Stephen
Famous People Named Stephen
- Stephen Hawking — British theoretical physicist
- Stephen King — American author
- Steven Spielberg — American filmmaker
Similar Names to Stephen
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Sibling Name Ideas for Stephen
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Stephen mean?
Stephen is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Crown, wreath." Stephen comes from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning "crown" or "wreath," referring to the victor's laurel wreath in ancient Greek athletic competitions. Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr, stoned to death in Jerusalem as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
How do you pronounce Stephen?
Stephen is pronounced STEE-vun. Common variations include Steven, Stefan, Stefano.
Is Stephen a boy name?
Yes, Stephen is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Steve, Stevie.
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