Christopher, derived from the Greek 'Christophoros', meaning 'bearer of Christ', is a name that has been celebrated throughout history. Originating in the Middle Ages, it was first popularized through the legend of Saint Christopher, a giant who carried the young Jesus across a river. The name's popularity surged during the Late Middle Ages and has remained a beloved choice among parents to this day. It is often associated with strength and fortitude, reflecting the courage displayed by its patron saint. Variant spellings include Christoffer, Kristoffer, and Chrisopher.
The name Christopher experienced fluctuations in popularity over the decades, with a noticeable spike in 1982 and consistently lower numbers from 1973 to 1981 and after 1986.