%c3%a9tienne

Étienne is the French form of Stephen, derived from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning crown or wreath, itself from the verb stephein, to encircle or crown. The name gained widespread use in the Christian world through Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr described in the Acts of the Apostles. It has been borne by numerous French scholars, theologians, and noblemen throughout the medieval and early modern periods. Related forms include the English Stephen and Steven, the Italian Stefano, the Spanish Esteban, and the Portuguese Estêvão.