Sebastian, derived from the Latin 'Sebastos', meaning venerable or majestic, is a popular given name of Latin origin. The name rose to prominence during the Middle Ages due to its association with St. Sebastian, an early Christian martyr who was reputedly shot with arrows and later clubbed to death for his faith in the 3rd century AD.
The name has been borne by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most prominent is Sebastian of Portugal (1560-1578), a king known for his military prowess and his untimely death at the Battle of Alcácer Quibir against Morocco. Another notable figure is Sebastian Castellio, a 16th-century French theologian who was an early advocate for religious tolerance and freedom of thought.
In literature and art, Sebastian has been used as a character name several times. In Shakespeare's "The Tempest," the king of Naples is named Ferdinand, which in some versions of the play is written as Sebastian. Additionally, there is Oscar Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray," where one of the main characters is named Sebastian Melmoth.
In popular culture, Sebastian has also been used as a character name in numerous films and television shows, such as "The Little Mermaid" by Disney, where King Triton's son is named Prince Sebastian. Moreover, it was the chosen stage name for German singer Michael Cretu, who gained international fame as Enigma.
Today, Sebastian remains a popular choice among parents, ranking consistently high on baby name lists in various countries. Its popularity can be attributed to its strong historical and cultural roots, as well as its stylish and sophisticated sound. The name has also been used extensively across different languages and cultures, including Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Polish, Swedish, and Norwegian.
Overall, the name Sebastian carries a rich history and cultural significance, making it an enduring choice for parents seeking a strong yet elegant name for their child.
The name Sebastian had five occurrences among newborns in the year 2018, making it a total of five births recorded for that specific name during this period.