International Variations of Stephen
Classic Stephen, as well as the alternate spelling Steven, have been well used throughout the years.
There are several handsome forms of Stephen used internationally, such as cross-European Stefan, Spanish Esteban, Maori Tipene, and Russian Stenya.
Here is our full list of international variations of Stephen, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.
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- Stephen
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"garland, crown"Description:
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's still a widely used name. It remains an even more popular in Ireland.
- Stefan
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Polish, and Russian variation of StephenDescription:
An elegant, continental name for the post-Steve era. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 1949 and has been on the list every year since except for a year off in 2008.
- Stefan
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Polish, and Russian variation of StephenDescription:
An elegant, continental name for the post-Steve era. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 1949 and has been on the list every year since except for a year off in 2008.
- Stefan
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Polish, and Russian variation of StephenDescription:
An elegant, continental name for the post-Steve era. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 1949 and has been on the list every year since except for a year off in 2008.
- Stefan
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Polish, and Russian variation of StephenDescription:
An elegant, continental name for the post-Steve era. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 1949 and has been on the list every year since except for a year off in 2008.
- Étienne
Origin:
French variation of Stephen, GreekMeaning:
"garland, crown"Description:
Appealingly gentle and romantic French classic--with a lot more charm than Steve.
- Stefano
Origin:
Italian variation of StephenMeaning:
"garland, crown"Description:
As commonly heard in Rome, Italy, as Steve is in Rome, New York. With the accent on the first syllable, Stefano has a lot of charm.
- Stavros
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"cross"Description:
A name that conjures up billionaire shipping magnates like, for instance, Stavros Niarcos.
- Szczepan
Description:
Szczepan is a masculine Polish name equivalent to the English Stephen. Derived from the Greek name Stephanos meaning "crown" or "garland," it has deep historical roots in Poland. The distinctive combination of consonants in Szczepan showcases the characteristic Polish orthography, with "szcz" creating a sound unfamiliar to many English speakers. Despite its challenging appearance to non-Polish readers, the name has a melodious pronunciation in its native context. Szczepan has strong connections to Polish cultural heritage and Catholic tradition, as Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr. While common in Poland, it remains rare internationally, making it a strong marker of Polish identity for those who bear it abroad.
- Stepan
Description:
Stepan is the Slavic variation of Stephen, a name with ancient Greek origins meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' Particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries, Stepan maintains strong cultural connections to Slavic heritage. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including writers, athletes, and political figures from Eastern Europe. Pronounced 'STEP-ahn,' it offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Western variants Stephen or Steven. While maintaining its traditional usage in Slavic countries, it has gained some international recognition as parents seek out names with authentic cultural roots. Stepan projects strength and dignity while honoring Eastern European heritage.
- Stepan
Description:
Stepan is the Slavic variation of Stephen, a name with ancient Greek origins meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' Particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Eastern European countries, Stepan maintains strong cultural connections to Slavic heritage. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including writers, athletes, and political figures from Eastern Europe. Pronounced 'STEP-ahn,' it offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Western variants Stephen or Steven. While maintaining its traditional usage in Slavic countries, it has gained some international recognition as parents seek out names with authentic cultural roots. Stepan projects strength and dignity while honoring Eastern European heritage.
- Panos
Origin:
Greek variation of PanagiotisMeaning:
"all holy"Description:
This is a straightforward choice for parents looking to honor their Greek ancestry.
- Esteve
Description:
Esteve is a masculine name of Catalan origin, being the Catalan equivalent of Stephen or Steven. Derived from the Greek name Stephanos (Στέφανος), it means "crown" or "garland." Predominantly used in Catalonia, Spain, and in some regions of France near the Spanish border, Esteve carries the historical weight of its connection to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The name has remained moderately popular in Catalan-speaking regions, appreciated for its cultural authenticity and traditional resonance. Esteve has a dignified, classic quality while maintaining a distinctive regional identity. Its pronunciation (es-TE-ve) gives it a melodic quality that distinguishes it from other European variants of Stephen.
- Kiwini
Description:
Kiwini is a masculine name with likely Polynesian origins, particularly associated with Hawaiian naming traditions. While not among the most common Hawaiian names, it reflects the melodic quality and vowel patterns typical of names from Pacific Island cultures. In Hawaiian contexts, name meanings often connect to nature, family qualities, or circumstances of birth, though specific translations can vary. Kiwini has a rhythmic, flowing quality with its alternating consonants and vowels. The name remains quite rare outside of Pacific Islander communities, making it a distinctive choice that carries cultural associations with Hawaii and Polynesian heritage. Its musical sound and exotic feel might appeal to parents seeking a name connected to Pacific island cultures or those drawn to names with a melodic, distinctive quality.
- Stiana
Description:
Stiana is an uncommon masculine name with Scandinavian origins. It likely developed as a masculine variant of the feminine name Stina, which itself is a Nordic diminutive form of Christina or Kristina. The name carries connotations of strength and endurance, reflecting its Nordic heritage. Stiana remains quite rare internationally, with very limited usage outside of Scandinavian countries and their diaspora communities. The name might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive masculine name with subtle religious undertones, as its root connects to the meaning "follower of Christ." Its unusual quality makes it a conversation starter while still being relatively straightforward to pronounce.
- Stenya
Description:
Stenya is an unusual masculine name that may have Slavic or Russian origins. It could be a variant or diminutive of names like Stanislav or Stepan, which are common in Eastern European countries. The ending '-ya' is typical in Slavic naming traditions, often used to create nicknames or affectionate forms. Stenya has a distinctive sound that combines strength and softness, with the hard consonant cluster at the beginning balanced by the flowing ending. This name remains extremely rare in Western countries, making it a unique choice for parents seeking something truly distinctive. While uncommon, Stenya has a melodic quality and an exotic appeal that might attract parents looking for an international name that stands out while still being relatively pronounceable.
- Stamos
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"stop"Description:
Has a dark, brooding image, thanks in large part to actor John Stamos.
- Estebe
Description:
Estebe is a masculine name that originates as the Basque variation of Stephen, derived from the Greek 'Stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' Predominantly found in the Basque Country regions of Spain and France, this cultural variation preserves the name's heritage while giving it a distinctive regional character. Estebe follows Basque phonological patterns, which differ from both Spanish (Esteban) and French (Étienne) versions of the same name. While common within Basque communities, Estebe remains rare internationally and would be considered an exotic choice outside its cultural homeland. The name carries the same dignified history as other Stephen variants, including its connection to the first Christian martyr.
- Istvan
Origin:
HungarianMeaning:
"crown, wreath"Description:
Hungarian form of Stephen, and the name of the first king and patron saint of Hungary.
- Estéban
Description:
Estéban is a masculine name representing the Spanish variation of Stephen, originating from the Greek 'Stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' The accent mark gives it a distinctive Spanish pronunciation and flair. Historically associated with Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, the name carries connotations of honor and dignity. Estéban remains particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, offering a melodic alternative to the more common Esteban spelling. The name conveys a sense of cultural heritage while maintaining international appeal. Parents are often drawn to Estéban for its sophisticated sound, cultural richness, and the meaningful connection to its noble origins.