What does Cephus mean and where does it come from?
Cephus is derived from the Hebrew name כֵּיפַס (Kephas), which means 'rock' or 'stone'. This name was famously borne by the Apostle Peter in the New Testament, where he is referred to as Cephas in the original Aramaic. The name is not very common today but has historical significance related to fait
Cultural significance
Cephus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in USA-speaking communities, where it reflects values of כֵּיפַס (kephas) - meaning 'rock' or 'stone'..
Peak popularity
Reached #913 in 1906 — currently #1959 in the US.
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Related Reading
USA-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cephus?
Cephus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cephus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cephus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cephus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cephus Claire
French influence · crisp
Cephus Jane
Literary · strong
Cephus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cephus right now?
Holding steady — currently #1959 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1959 | 241 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1964 | 221 | ▲ up 5 · +16% births |
| 2021 | #1969 | 191 | ▲ up 6231 · +3720% births |
| 1990 | #8200 | 5 | ▼ down 1856 |
| 1980 | #6344 | 5 | ▼ down 3576 · -58% births |
| 1970 | #2768 | 12 | ▼ down 122 · +20% births |
| 1965 | #2646 | 10 | ▼ down 69 · -9% births |
| 1960 | #2577 | 11 | ▼ down 500 · -27% births |
| 1955 | #2077 | 15 | ▼ down 490 · -32% births |
| 1950 | #1587 | 22 | ▲ up 462 · +83% births |
| 1945 | #2049 | 12 | ▼ down 398 · -33% births |
| 1940 | #1651 | 18 | ▲ up 136 · +13% births |
| 1935 | #1787 | 16 | ▲ up 328 · +14% births |
| 1930 | #2115 | 14 | ▲ up 682 · +40% births |
| 1925 | #2797 | 10 | — |
The story of Cephus
Cephus has been a beloved American name for over 136 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1888. With 1,009 total births recorded, Cephus remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1060 in 1895, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1959 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cephus in 1906:
Cephus by decade
Cephus peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6 | |
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 47 | |
| 1910s | 128 | |
| 1920s ★ | 173 | |
| 1930s | 123 | |
| 1940s | 144 | |
| 1950s | 143 | |
| 1960s | 112 | |
| 1970s | 59 | |
| 1980s | 42 | |
| 1990s | 16 | |
| 2000s | 10 | |
💎With 1,009 total births, Cephus is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cephus?
What names sound and feel like Cephus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cephus also consider these
Common questions about the name Cephus
What does the name Cephus mean?
Cephus means "כֵּיפַס (Kephas) - meaning 'rock' or 'stone'." — a name rooted in USA tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cephus?
Cephus is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Cephus?
Cephus originates from USA tradition. USA names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Cephus?
Cephus is a two-syllable name pronounced S EH1 F AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cephus a common or rare name?
Cephus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.