Log in · Sign up

Eustace Boy

Popularity: #917 · Trend: → Stable

Origin(s)

PronunciationYOO-stəs / /ˈjuːstəss/

Greek; Latin

Meaning

Greek: fruitful; Latin: good

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Eustace is derived from the Greek name Eustachios (Ευστάχιος), which is composed of the elements "eu" meaning "good" or "well" and "stachys" meaning "ear of corn" or "grain." This etymology suggests a connotation of prosperity or abundance. The name made its way into Latin as Eustachius and subsequently into Old French as Eustace, before being adopted into Middle English. The transition into English occurred during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when many Norman names were introduced into the English lexicon.

Historically, Eustace has been borne by several notable figures, including Saint Eustace, a Christian martyr who is believed to have lived in the 2nd century. His story, which involves a vision of Christ and a subsequent conversion, was popularized in medieval hagiographies. The name also appears in various medieval texts, including the "Golden Legend," a collection of saints' lives compiled in the 13th century. Additionally, Eustace was the name of several noblemen in the Middle Ages, including Eustace I, Count of Boulogne, who participated in the First Crusade in the late 11th century.

Culturally, the name Eustace has been associated with themes of faith, endurance, and transformation, largely due to the legacy of Saint Eustace. The name's resonance in literature is also notable; it appears in works such as C.S. Lewis's "The Chronicles of Narnia," where the character Eustace Scrubb undergoes significant personal growth. This literary connection has contributed to the name's enduring presence in various cultural contexts. The diminutive form "Eusty" may also be encountered, reflecting a more informal or affectionate usage.

Trend Summary

Eustace has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a notable decline in usage since the early 20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Eustachius
  • Eustachio

International Variants

  • Eustache (French)
  • Eustachio (Italian)
  • Eustáquio (Spanish)

Famous people named Eustace

Fictional characters named Eustace

Eustace Scrubb is a fictional character from C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia series. He is a boy who undergoes significant character development and transformation during his adventures in Narnia.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Eustace was first seen in the United States in 1882. Eustace has ranked as high as #855 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in New York, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Eustace has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Eustace (1936)

StateBirthsShare
NY 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18827
18857
18995
19005
19026
19106
191212
191310
191410
191511
191618
191713
191813
191918
192017
192129
192221
192321
192418
192520
192621
19278
192817
192912
193012
19317
193214
19336
193410
193511
193610
19376
19387
194012
194110
19425
19437
19447
19456
19467
19477
194811
19497
19506
19529
19538
19548
195512
19567
19576
19616
19659
19725
19735
19746
19778
19806
19827
19835
19906
19915
19928
19935
19945
19975
20115
20147
20158
20168
20187
20196
20219
20229
20236
20247