Stavros (Greek: Σταύρος, pronounced [ˈstavros]) is a Greek masculine given name derived from the word stavros (σταυρός), meaning "cross" — specifically the cross of the Christian crucifixion. Unlike the noun for "cross", which is accented on the second syllable, the given name stresses the first syllable, a distinction that parallels the name Christos vs. Christós (Christ). Stavros was adopted as a given name to commemorate the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, a major celebration in the Eastern Orthodox Church observed on September 14. Distribution and Cultural Context Stavros is overwhelmingly used within Greek-speaking populations, both in Greece and in the Greek diaspora. Unlike many Greek-origin names such as Alexander, Nicholas, or Peter that have been widely adopted across various cultures, Stavros remains almost exclusively Greek. Its feminine counterpart is Stavroula, which is much more common, while a rarer feminine form is Stavriani. The name's strong association with the Orthodox liturgical tradition ties it to religious life and identity. Related Names The patronymic or genitive form Stavrou (Σταύρου, meaning "of Stavros") is common as a surname in Greece. The nominative Stavros is not typically used as a surname internally, though outside Greece it sometimes appears as a clipping of longer surnames like Stavropoulos. In English-speaking contexts, Stavros is occasionally anglicized as "Steve", which is actually the English form of the unrelated name Stephen (from Greek Stephanos, "crown"). Notable Bearers Stavros Dimas (born 1941), Greek politician and former European Commissioner Stavros Niarchos (1909–1996), Greek shipping magnate and founder of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Stavros Xarchakos (born 1939), Greek composer and singer Several prominent diaspora Greeks bear the name, including Gus Stavros (1925–2022), an American businessman and philanthropist. Key Facts Meaning: "cross" (referring to the cross of the Crucifixion) Origin: Greek Type: Given name Usage: Predominantly Greek, with limited use in diaspora