Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name Sebastian has its roots in Greek, specifically from 'Sebastianos', meaning 'venerable' or 'revered'. Through its evolution from Greek to Latin and then to various forms in modern languages, it has maintained a sense of dignity and respect. The name is notably linked to the Christian martyr Saint Sebastian, which contributed to its popularity during the Middle Ages. Today, it is perceived as a classic name with positive connotations, associated with notable figures in various fields.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/səˈbæstʃən/
Origin
Greek
Etymology
The name Sebastian comes from the Greek name 'Sebastianos', which means 'from Sebastia'. Sebastia was a city in Asia Minor that derived its name from the Greek word 'sebastos', meaning 'venerable' or 'revered'.
Meaning
venerable, revered
Language Evolution
Sebastianos (Greek), Sebastianus (Latin), Sebastian (Old French), Sebastian (English)
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the Christian tradition due to Saint Sebastian, a martyr who was venerated in the early church. His cult became widespread in the Middle Ages, leading to the increased use of the name.
Variants & Derivatives
Sebastiaan, Bastian, Seb, Bas
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Sebastian is viewed as a classic and sophisticated name, often associated with cultural refinement and artistic talent, and it remains popular in many countries.
Famous People
Sebastian Bach (musician), Sebastian Coe (athlete and politician), Sebastian Stan (actor), Sebastian Vettel (racing driver)
📊 Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 24 peak births in 2002
Geographic Spread
Popular across 1 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (3 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 3 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 7545th of 7545 | 5 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 6024th of 7552 | 16 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 7795th of 10718 | 19 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 6469th of 16616 | 91 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 5395th of 24088 | 234 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 7093rd of 23106 | 135 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - |
63.94% 4039th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in California across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Millennials (Gen Y) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 7545th out of 7545 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 6024th out of 7552 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 7795th out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 6469th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 5395th out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 7093rd out of 23106 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.