What does Stefan mean and where does it come from?
Although traditionally a male name, the name Stefan can also be coined as a female variant in some contexts. Its origins trace back to the Greek name Stephanos (Στέφανος), meaning 'crown.' The name is prominent across various cultures, including Germany and the United States. Notable people include
Cultural significance
Stefan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of crown.
Peak popularity
Reached #5403 in 1985 — currently #961 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Stefan?
Stefan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Stefan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Stefan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Stefan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Stefan Claire
French influence · crisp
Stefan Jane
Literary · strong
Stefan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Stefan right now?
Declining — down 10 spots — currently #961 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #961 | 234 | ▼ down 10 · -2% births |
| 2022 | #951 | 239 | ▼ down 56 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #895 | 257 | ▲ up 4508 · +1877% births |
| 1985 | #5403 | 13 | — |
The story of Stefan
Stefan is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. A total of 20,042 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5403 in 1985 to #961 in 2023. Stefan is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Stefan in 1985:
Stefan by decade
Stefan peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 115 | |
| 1920s | 103 | |
| 1930s | 78 | |
| 1940s | 262 | |
| 1950s | 650 | |
| 1960s | 1,638 | |
| 1970s | 2,390 | |
| 1980s | 4,046 | |
| 1990s ★ | 5,404 | |
| 2000s | 2,519 | |
| 2010s | 2,581 | |
| 2020s | 256 | |
What are good nicknames for Stefan?
ENGLISH
SteStephSteveStevie
What names sound and feel like Stefan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Stefan also consider these
How is Stefan written in other languages?
Gender variants of Stefan
Common questions about the name Stefan
What does the name Stefan mean?
Stefan means "crown" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Stefan?
Stefan is currently ranked #961 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Stefan?
Stefan originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Stefan?
Stefan is a two-syllable name pronounced S T EH1 F AA0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Stefan a common or rare name?
Stefan is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.