Christ is a male given name of Latin origin, derived from the word 'Christus', which means 'anointed'. It is directly related to the Christian religion and is often used as a symbol of faith in Jesus Christ.
The name Christ has been popular throughout history, with many notable figures bearing this name. One of the most famous was Emperor Constantine the Great (circa 280-337 AD), who was known by the Latin form of the name, 'Constantius'. He is often referred to as the first Christian emperor and played a significant role in spreading Christianity throughout Europe.
Another notable figure with this name was Saint Christophorus or Christopher, whose legend dates back to the 4th century. According to tradition, he was a giant who carried people across a dangerous river. When asked his name, he replied that it was 'Christophorus', meaning 'bearer of Christ'.
The name Christ has also been used in various forms throughout different cultures and languages. In Greek, the equivalent name is 'Christos', while in French, it's 'Christophe'. In English-speaking countries, it's often shortened to 'Chris' or 'Chris(t)'.
While the name Christ is strongly associated with Christianity, its popularity has also made it a widely recognized name worldwide, regardless of religious beliefs. It remains a popular choice for parents looking to give their child a name rich in history and meaning.
The name Christ has seen fluctuating popularity over the past 143 years, with a total of 3910 babies named Christ born during this period. The peak years for the name were during World War I, with 61 births in 1917 and 58 in 1918, suggesting a potential patriotic influence on naming choices at that time. However, since the mid-20th century, the name Christ has fallen out of fashion, with fewer than 30 births per year recorded between 1955 and 2023, inclusive. The most recent data shows a slight resurgence in popularity, with 27 births each in 2022 and 2023.