Xavier

ZAY-vee-er
Meaning: The name Xavier means 'new house' or 'bright' in Arabic and is often associated with enlightenment and brightness.
Gender
Boy
Origin
Basque, Spanish, Latin
Popularity Rank
#105 (boys)
#168 (overall)

Popularity Summary

Xavier has consistently been a popular name in various countries, particularly in Spanish-speaking regions. It has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, often ranking among the top names for boys.

Why Parents Choose Xavier

Parents often choose the name Xavier for its rich history, strong cultural significance, and its meaning associated with brightness and new beginnings. It strikes a balance between uniqueness and tradition.

History & Cultural Significance

The name Xavier originated from the Basque place name Etxabier, which translates to 'the new house'. It gained prominence in the 16th century due to Saint Francis Xavier, who played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in Asia. Over the centuries, it has maintained a classic appeal and is used widely across various cultures.

Xavier is a name with strong ties to Spanish and Catholic heritage, most notably through Saint Francis Xavier, a co-founder of the Jesuit order, who is celebrated for his missionary work.

Notable People Named Xavier

  • Saint Francis Xavier
  • Xavier Dolan
  • Xavier Cugat
  • Xavier Woods
  • Xavier Rudd

Name Variations

Javier Xavi Zavier Xaviero

Related Names

Xena Zane Zara Zavion

Similar Sounding Names

Caspian Snyder Zebulon

Names with Similar Feel

Sebastian Matteo Lorenzo Julio

Sibling Name Ideas

Isabella Gabriel Sophia Julian

Pop Culture References

  • Xavier Institute for Higher Learning from X-Men
  • Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters
  • Xavier, a character in the video game series 'Catherine'