Origin
Greek - From the Greek name Σταῦρος (Stauros), meaning 'cross'. The name is historically associated with the Christian symbol of the cross, reflecting religious significance. It appears in Greek Orthodox tradition and was popularised through saints and religious figures in Byzantine history. It is used by Greek-speaking communities worldwide, including in Australia among the Greek diaspora.
Meaning
Cross or Crucifix. In Australian English contexts, the name carries connotations of religious faith, resilience, and cultural heritage among Greek Australians.
Pronunciation
/ˈstæv.rɒs/ or /ˈstɑː.vrəs/ - Stress on the first syllable, with variations depending on regional or personal pronunciation preferences within Australia.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Staurós (original Greek spelling)
- Stavros (common Australian spelling)
- Stavrosios (less common variant)
Nicknames
- Stavo
- Stav
Name Days
- 3 February (Saint Stavros' Feast Day)
- 14 September (Exaltation of the Holy Cross)
- Special days may be observed in Orthodox communities within Australia, celebrating saints bearing the name.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with stavros:
- George and Alexander
- Nikos and Sotiris
- Maria and Eleni
Fun Facts
- The name Stavros became popular in Australia through Greek migration waves post-World War II.
- Stavros is also associated with popular Australian beaches and tourist spots in Greece, such as 'Stavros Beach' in Crete, known for its scenic beauty.
- Australian sports teams or clubs with Greek origins sometimes adopt the name in cultural events.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name stavros:
- Religious faith
- Resilience
- Tradition-loving
- Community-oriented
Aesthetic Qualities
Visually striking due to its strong consonantal starting and balanced syllabic structure; typographically versatile in both Latin and Greek scripts, often appreciated for its symmetry and cultural significance.
Geographical Distribution
Most prevalent in urban centres with significant Greek communities such as Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide, especially in suburbs like Melbourne's Oakleigh and Sydney's Marrickville.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8, associated with leadership, abundance, and practical achievement in numerology; considered a strong and authoritative name in astrological interpretations.
Astrological Connections
Typically linked with grounded Taurus or ambitious Capricorn zodiac signs, aligning with the traits of strength and resilience attributed to the name.
Historical Context
Saint Stavros is revered in Greek Orthodoxy, and the name is borne by multiple saints and religious figures. In Australian history, notable Greek Australians such as Stavros Litsas (businessman) have contributed to broader cultural recognition.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts primarily within Greek-speaking communities; in English contexts, it retains its original form but is often transliterated simply as 'Stavros'. It can be easily incorporated into multicultural naming conventions.
Famous People Named stavros
- Stavros Niarchos (Greek shipping magnate)
- Stavros Flatley (Irish dancers with Australian connections)
- Stavros Theodorakis (Greek politician with connections to Australia)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2014 | 2 |
2013 | 1 |