Stephen
STEE-vuhn
Stephen comes from the Greek Stephanos meaning “crown” or “wreath.” The name was popularized through Saint Stephen, who is considered the first Christian martyr.
His story is told in the Acts of the Apostles: he was stoned to death in Jerusalem around 36 AD.
The name spread throughout the Christian world through this martyrdom. In England it received a major boost when King Stephen (1096–1154) reigned as the last Norman king. It has been in continuous English use since the 11th century.
What the name Stephen means
Stephen ranked No. 377 in 2024 with 864 births. It peaked at No. 19 in 1949 with 20,488 births — a top-20 name for much of the mid-20th century, now in steady decline.
Astrophysicist Stephen Hawking (1942–2018), comedian Stephen Colbert (1964–), and author Stephen King (1947–) are among the most prominent current or recent bearers.
The spelling Stephen is the older British form; Steven is the American phonetic variant.
Two syllables — STEE-ven — are crisp and direct. The name has a solid, reliable character that made it a staple of mid-century American naming.
Parents who want a classic name with deep Christian heritage and a long list of distinguished bearers find Stephen a dependable choice that avoids trendiness.
Related forms include Steven (American phonetic), Étienne (French), Stefan (German and Slavic), Esteban (Spanish), and Stefano (Italian). All descend from the Greek martyr’s name.
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 Stephen
Stephen - similar names
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