Stephanie
/ˈstɛf.ə.ni/
Stephanie is the French feminine form of Stephen, from the Greek Stephanos (Στέφανος), meaning “crown” or “garland.” The name honours Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
The feminine form appeared in medieval France and spread through aristocratic circles. Stephanie entered mainstream English usage in the mid-20th century and climbed rapidly through the 1970s and 1980s.
The name reached an extraordinary No. 6 in 1984 with 23,025 births, making it one of the defining girls’ names of the Reagan era. In 2024, Stephanie ranks No. 533 with 571 births.
What the name Stephanie means
Princess Stéphanie of Monaco and gymnast Stephanie Rice are notable bearers. The name’s professional, polished image made it a favourite across socioeconomic lines during its peak decades.
Three syllables—STEF-uh-nee—carry a brisk opening consonant cluster and a bright, cheerful close. The name feels both energetic and put-together, balancing formality with friendliness.
Though well past its peak, Stephanie remains instantly recognizable and professionally strong. It now reads as a solid, established name rather than a dated one.
Variants include Stéphanie (French), Stefanie (German), Estefanía (Spanish), and the diminutive Steph. The Greek original Stefania preserves the closest connection to the root.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Stephanie
Stephanie - similar names
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