Steven Boy

Greek; Hebrew

Meaning

Greek: crown; Hebrew: he who is crowned

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Steven is derived from the Greek name 'Stephanos', which means 'crown' or 'garland'. This Greek term is rooted in the verb 'stephanoō', meaning 'to crown'. The name was adopted into Latin as 'Stephanus', which was then transmitted into Old French as 'Estienne' before entering the English language as 'Steven' or 'Stephen'. The transition into English occurred around the 12th century, coinciding with the Norman Conquest, which brought many Latin and Greek names into English usage through the influence of the Church and the aristocracy.

Historically, the name Steven has significant biblical connections, particularly through Saint Stephen, who is recognized as the first Christian martyr. His story is recounted in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts, where he is stoned to death for his faith, around the 1st century CE. The veneration of Saint Stephen led to the name's popularity in Christian contexts, especially during the Middle Ages, when many parents named their sons after saints. The name was further popularized in England by the 12th century, notably with King Stephen of England, who reigned from 1135 to 1154, and whose reign was marked by civil war and strife.

Culturally, the name Steven has been associated with notions of honor and valor, symbolized by the 'crown' meaning inherent in its etymology. The name has been used in various forms across different cultures, with 'Stefan' being a common variant in many Slavic languages. The enduring nature of the name can be attributed to its strong historical roots and the reverence associated with its biblical connections, which have allowed it to maintain a significant presence in various cultures throughout the centuries.

Trend Summary

The name Steven has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the 1960s and 1970s.

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