Sebastian

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/səˈbæstʃən/

Sebastian: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus". It derives from the Greek word "sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS".

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Sebastian, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Sebastian

Quick facts about Sebastian
OriginGreek
GenderBoy name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS

How to Pronounce Sebastian

Sebastian is pronounced /səˈbæstʃən/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Seb-astian
  2. Say it like: "SOOHBASTSHOOHN"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Sebastian enjoys international appeal, used in 17 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, romanian, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishromaniannorwegianicelandiccroatianirishswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgreenlandicpolishczechdutchslovenegermanwelsh
Frequently Asked Questions About Sebastian
What does the name Sebastian mean?
Sebastian means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome.". The name comes from sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS. In its original form, the name derives from sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Sebastian for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Sebastian offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Sebastian?
Sebastian is a greek name. The name traces back to sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS. The original form sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Sebastian spread to become common in english, romanian, norwegian, icelandic and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Sebastian a boy or girl name?
Sebastian is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Sebastian has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Sebastian?
Sebastian is pronounced "/səˈbæstʃən/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Sebastian is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, romanian, norwegian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Sebastian can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root sébas > sebastós > SEBASTIANUS influences how Sebastian sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Sebastian?
Sebastian is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Sebastian gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Sebastian's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Sebastian holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Sebastian commonly used?
Sebastian spans multiple cultures, including english, romanian, norwegian, and 14 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Sebastian found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Sebastian, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “sébas (σέβας) sebastós (σεβαστός),” and later from the Latin name “Sebastianus.” Sebaste is the name of a town in Asia Minor, present-day Sivas. Sebastos was the Greek translation of the Latin title “Augustus,” which was used for Roman emperors. Sebastian became a widely used name because it was the name of Saint Sebastian, a third-century Christian martyr. It is said that he was killed during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. He is commonly depicted in art and literature tied to a post or tree and shot with arrows. It is the most common artistic depiction of Sebastian; however, according to legend, he was rescued and healed by Irene of Rome." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Sebastian into their naming traditions. A child named Sebastian will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Sebastian is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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