Sebastian Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Sebastian
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name SEBASTIAN. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Sebastian
Gender
Male
Origin
Greek
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Sebastian is a male name of Greek origin meaning 'venerable' or 'revered.' It conveys a sense of dignity, majesty, and respected stature.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Sebastian
Saint Sebastian
Christian Martyr
One of the most venerated early Christian saints, patron saint of soldiers and athletes
Sebastian Cabot
Explorer
Key figure in early European exploration of North America, discovered Newfoundland
Johann Sebastian Bach
Composer
Baroque composer whose works represent the pinnacle of Western classical music
Sebastian Vettel
Racing Driver
Four-time Formula One World Champion with 53 Grand Prix victories
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's widespread adoption across Europe was largely driven by the veneration of Saint Sebastian, a 3rd-century Roman soldier martyred for his Christian faith during Diocletian's persecution. His dramatic story of surviving execution by arrows only to be later clubbed to death made him one of the most popular saints in medieval Christianity. Saint Sebastian became the patron saint of soldiers, athletes, and plague victims, and his depiction in Renaissance art by masters like Botticelli and Mantegna further cemented the name's cultural prominence. Throughout history, Sebastian has maintained its association with strength, endurance, and spiritual devotion while evolving to represent artistic sensitivity and intellectual depth.
During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the name gained additional cultural currency through its association with artistic and intellectual achievement, most notably with Johann Sebastian Bach. In modern times, Sebastian has transcended its religious origins to become a name that bridges European aristocratic tradition with contemporary creative expression, appearing frequently in literature, film, and popular culture as a character embodying both refinement and passion.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Sebastian are often perceived as possessing a unique blend of strength and sensitivity. They typically exhibit intellectual curiosity, artistic inclination, and a refined aesthetic sense, combined with the resilience and determination inherited from the name's martial origins. This duality allows Sebastians to navigate both creative pursuits and practical challenges with equal competence.
Common personality traits associated with the name include elegance in manner, diplomatic communication skills, and a natural leadership quality that inspires respect rather than demands it. Sebastians often demonstrate loyalty in relationships, a strong moral compass, and the ability to endure adversity with grace. Their combination of cerebral depth and emotional intelligence makes them excellent problem-solvers who can appreciate complexity while maintaining practical effectiveness.
The name suggests someone who balances tradition with innovation, capable of both deep reflection and decisive action. Sebastians are often seen as bridge-builders between different groups or ideas, possessing the patience to understand multiple perspectives and the wisdom to find common ground. While they may appear reserved initially, they typically reveal warmth, wit, and passionate conviction to those who earn their trust. This combination of outward composure and inner intensity makes Sebastians memorable individuals who leave lasting impressions.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Sebastian has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity across English-speaking countries and beyond. After being relatively uncommon through much of the 20th century, the name began climbing popularity charts in the 1990s and has remained consistently fashionable. It currently ranks among the top 20 boys' names in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The name's appeal lies in its perfect balance of classic elegance and modern sophistication—it feels both timeless and contemporary. Sebastian works well across social classes and cultural backgrounds, appealing to parents seeking a name that is distinctive without being eccentric, traditional without being dated. Its international variants ensure global recognition while maintaining its essential character. The name's popularity has been bolstered by positive cultural associations in film, literature, and sports, making it a choice that conveys intelligence, creativity, and strength without appearing pretentious.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Sebastian represents the harmonious integration of apparent opposites: strength and sensitivity, tradition and innovation, earthly passion and spiritual devotion. The arrows that pierced Saint Sebastian have become symbolic of both suffering and transcendence, representing how adversity can lead to spiritual growth and resilience. The name carries connotations of artistic inspiration (as patron saint of athletes and artists) and intellectual depth, while also symbolizing protection against plague and misfortune in historical contexts. In modern interpretation, Sebastian symbolizes the individual who maintains grace under pressure, combines aesthetic appreciation with practical capability, and bridges different worlds or perspectives. It represents the idea that true strength includes vulnerability and that the most enduring power often comes from quiet dignity rather than overt force. The name has evolved to symbolize creative genius, as exemplified by Bach, and competitive excellence, as seen in modern athletes like Sebastian Vettel, making it a name that encompasses both artistic and athletic achievement.