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Sebastian Boy

Popularity: #14 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationse-BAS-tyan / /səˈbæstʃən/

Latin; Greek

Meaning

Latin: 'venerable'; Greek: 'from Sebastia'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sebastian has its roots in the Greek name Sebastianos, which is derived from the Greek word "sebastos," meaning "venerable" or "revered." This term itself is a translation of the Latin "augustus," a title used by Roman emperors, signifying a sense of dignity and respect. The name was introduced into Latin as Sebastianus, which later evolved into various forms in different languages, including the Old French "Sebastien" and the Italian "Sebastiano," before making its way into English as Sebastian during the Middle Ages.

Historically, the name gained prominence due to Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was executed in the 3rd century CE. His story is recounted in various hagiographies, and he became a popular figure in Christian art and literature, often depicted tied to a tree and shot with arrows. The veneration of Saint Sebastian spread throughout Europe, particularly during the Renaissance, when his image symbolized endurance and faith. His feast day is celebrated on January 20, further solidifying the name's significance in Christian tradition.

In addition to its religious connotations, the name Sebastian has been associated with various cultural figures throughout history, including notable artists and writers. The name appears in works of literature, such as Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night," where one of the main characters is named Sebastian, contributing to its cultural resonance. The name has also been linked to themes of nobility and valor, often embodying qualities admired in various cultures. Its enduring presence in different languages and cultures underscores its historical and symbolic importance, making it a name rich in heritage.

Trend Summary

Sebastian has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Bastian
  • Seb
  • Sebby

International Variants

  • Sebastián (Spanish)
  • Sébastien (French)
  • Sebastiaan (Dutch)
  • Sebastiano (Italian)

Famous people named Sebastian

Sebastian Bach is a singer best known for his work with Skid Row, as well as his solo career and appearances on Broadway.

Sebastian Stan is an actor best known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, I, Tonya, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.

Sebastian Vettel is a racing driver best known for his time in Formula One, winning multiple World Championships with Red Bull Racing.

Sebastian Junger is an author and journalist best known for his books The Perfect Storm, War, and Tribe.

Sebastian Coe is a former middle-distance runner best known for winning Olympic gold medals and for his role in athletics administration.

Fictional characters named Sebastian

Sebastian is a fictional character from the animated film The Little Mermaid. He is a Caribbean crab who serves as a musical advisor and friend to Ariel, the mermaid princess.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sebastian was first seen in the United States in 1881. Sebastian has ranked as high as #34 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Sebastian has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sebastian (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 1,788
22%
TX 1,564
19%
FL 629
8%
NY 391
5%
IL 336
4%
AZ 311
4%
NC 261
3%
GA 188
2%
PA 172
2%
WA 152
2%
VA 147
2%
OH 139
2%
IN 137
2%
MI 129
2%
NV 122
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18816
188210
18855
18867
18896
189211
18945
18958
18965
18988
18996
19018
19025
190311
19049
190510
19065
190712
190815
190914
191014
191120
191251
191363
191482
1915112
1916134
1917122
1918114
1919126
1920139
1921130
1922127
1923130
1924137
1925108
1926131
1927104
1928128
192997
1930113
193194
193287
193375
193481
193579
193665
193762
193865
193953
194051
194160
194277
194360
194447
194547
194655
194756
194870
194951
195042
195144
195251
195352
195447
195556
195642
195750
195863
195953
196070
1961105
1962151
1963109
1964130
1965104
196699
1967115
1968116
1969117
1970165
1971188
1972155
1973130
1974125
1975127
1976124
1977120
1978143
1979137
1980168
1981176
1982220
1983192
1984242
1985289
1986281
1987354
1988396
1989522
1990790
19911,033
19921,295
19931,307
19941,305
19951,435
19961,590
19971,768
19981,697
19992,378
20005,029
20014,979
20025,137
20034,649
20044,521
20054,956
20066,287
20076,274
20086,041
20095,992
20106,365
20116,551
20126,743
20137,552
20149,313
20159,628
201610,308
201710,197
201810,135
20199,881
20209,021
20218,930
20229,393
20238,890
20248,562