Stephen is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #255 in 2011 with 189 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 1,122 births ranking #60. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 83.2%. In 2011, approximately 1 in every 1,830 boys born was named Stephen. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Stephen is a major classic meaning crown or wreath. It feels thoughtful, established, and deeply rooted in Christian tradition.
The name spread through Christian Europe through Saint Stephen and became one of the enduring staples of English naming. Its longevity has produced many international forms and familiar spellings.