Stephen

Stephen, also spelled Steven, is a strong and likable classic, with the he's-a-great-guy short form Steve. Though not as well used or fashionable as it was in its heyday--it was a Top 25 name from 1946 to 1957- it still ranks just outside the Top 200.

Already common in ancient Greece, Stephen was the name of the first Christian martyr, one of the seven men chosen to help the apostles spread the gospel of Christianity, several popes and a British king.

There have been innumerable pop-culture role models among its bearers--from Stephen Sondheim and Stephen King to Steven Spielberg to Steve Martin and Steve Jobs.

Among the attractive international versions are Stefan, Stefano and Stephano, Esteban and Etienne.