Baby Name Guide
Sebastian
Origin: Greek/Latin · Pronunciation: suh-BAS-chan
What Does Sebastian Mean?
Venerable, revered
Greek/Latin Origin
Sebastian is a name that carries the patina of age and the luster of sophistication. Derived from the Greek sebastos, meaning venerable or revered, it was used in the Roman Empire as an honorific for emperors, from the Greek translation of the title Augustus. The name became particularly associated with Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was famously shot with arrows—a subject that has inspired countless Renaissance paintings. In modern usage, Sebastian has moved from ecclesiastical and aristocratic circles to mainstream popularity, consistently ranking in the top 30 boy names. Sebastian parents often describe their sons as having a thoughtful, refined nature—a quiet sophistication that shows up in everything they do. They tend to be the kind of children who have good taste, who notice the details that others miss.
Personality
Sebastians are known for their warmth, creativity, and determination.
Nicknames
Popularity
Top 20 boy name in the United States
Middle Names for Sebastian
Classic and modern combinations that pair beautifully with Sebastian:
Famous Boys Named Sebastian
- ✨Sebastian — Saint Sebastian, Christian martyr famously depicted in Renaissance art
- ✨Sebastian — character from the film Titanic (fictional)
- ✨Sebastian — character from the TV series Big Little Lies (fictional)
- ✨Sebastian — from the children's film The Little Mermaid (fictional)
- ✨Sebastian — various fictional and historical figures
Sibling Names
Names that pair beautifully with Sebastian:
Emma
Sophia
Olivia
Ava
Isabella
Charlotte
Mia
Harper
FAQ
❓ What does Sebastian mean?
Sebastian comes from Greek sebastos meaning venerable or revered. It was an honorific for Roman emperors.
❓ Who was Saint Sebastian?
Saint Sebastian was a Christian martyr who was sentenced to death and shot with arrows. He survived, was nursed back to health, and was ultimately beaten to death.
❓ What famous Sebastians are there?
Notable Sebastians include Saint Sebastian, Sebastian (character from Titanic), and various fictional characters.
❓ What personality is associated with Sebastian?
Sebastians tend to be thoughtful, intelligent, confident, refined, creative, artistic, analytical, and devoted.
❓ Is Sebastian a popular name?
Sebastian has been growing in popularity and currently ranks in the top 30 boy names.