Christopher is an English variant of Christophorus, a name derived from Greek words that mean 'bearer of Christ'. It was popularized by the story of Saint Christopher, who was said to have carried the young Jesus across a river. The name has been used in England since at least the 13th century and gained further prominence during the Middle Ages due to the veneration of Saint Christopher as a patron saint of travelers.
The name Christopher has been borne by several notable figures throughout history, including Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer who discovered the Americas for Europe; Christopher Wren, the English architect responsible for rebuilding much of London after the Great Fire of 1666; and Christopher Robin Milne, the son of author A.A. Milne, whose life inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh books.
In terms of popularity, Christopher was a top 20 name for boys in England during the mid-20th century but has since fallen out of fashion. However, it remains a classic choice that carries a strong historical legacy and Christian significance. Its short forms include Chris, Chrisopher, and Topher, each offering unique alternatives to the full form of the name.
Overall, Christopher is an enduring name with deep roots in English history and culture, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a timeless and meaningful moniker for their son.
"Over the span of three decades (1960-1993), Christophere experienced variable popularity with birth rates peaking at 18 in 1972 and dropping to a low of 5 in both 1992 and 1995. The total number of births named Christophere during this period was 189."