Origin
Derived from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning 'crown' or 'garland'. The name was popularised through Christian saints, notably Saint Stephen, the first martyr. In Australia, the name has been adopted broadly across diverse communities, often linked to its European Christian heritage.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'crown' or 'wreath'. In Australian English contexts, symbolically associated with honour, achievement, and celebration, often used for girls born near significant achievements or honours.
Pronunciation
/ˈstɛfəni/ (STEF-uh-nee) with the stress on the first syllable, pronounced in Australian English as /ˈstɛfəni/. (Note: phonetic in IPA, accommodating Australian vowel sounds)
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Stephanie (original, English, French influence)
- Stefanie (German, alternative spelling)
- Stefani (Italian variant)
Nicknames
- Steph
- Stef
- Esther
Name Days
- 26 December (Saint Stephen's Day)
- 26 December (Tradition in Christian calendars celebrating Saint Stephen)
- 26 December (Māori in New Zealand also observe as Boxing Day, related to Saint Stephen)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with stephanie:
- Elizabeth and Stephanie
- Anna and Stephanie
- Mia and Stephanie
Fun Facts
- The name Stephanie was highly popular in Australia during the 1970s and 1980s, often ranking in the top 20 for girls' names.
- Famous Australian bearer: Stephanie Rice, Olympic swimmer.
- The name appears in various Australian literature works, symbolising grace and regal qualities.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name stephanie:
- Elegant
- Regal
- Compassionate
- Ambitious
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a classic and symmetrical visual appeal, with a gentle flow in written form, popular for its clarity and timeless elegance in Australian typography.
Geographical Distribution
More common in urban and coastal regions such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with less frequency in rural and inland areas, reflecting migration and cultural trends.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8 (calculated via numerology), associated with power, ambition, and financial success, fitting Australian cultural values of resilience and achievement.
Astrological Connections
Corresponds to the zodiac signs of Capricorn and Aquarius, suggesting traits of discipline, originality, and independence, aligning with Australian cultural ideals.
Historical Context
The name gained prominence in Australia through European migration and the spread of Christianity, notably following the saint's feast day. It has been popularised by Australian celebrities and athletes, influencing trends.
Linguistic Adaptability
Easily adaptable across languages; in non-English speaking countries, it is often transcribed as 'Stefanie' or 'Stefani', maintaining recognition and pronunciation.
Famous People Named stephanie
- Stephanie Gilmore (Australian surfer)
- Stephanie Rice (Olympic swimmer)
- Stephanie Conroy (model and actress)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 2 |
2017 | 3 |
2016 | 4 |
2015 | 6 |
2014 | 6 |