Stephen is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #555 in 2022 with 69 recorded births. This places Stephen in the top 9% of ranked UK boys' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Uncommon. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 1,122 births ranking #60. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 93.9%. In 2022, approximately 1 in every 4,122 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.