Fabian is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Fabius. The Fabii were one of the most ancient and respected families in Rome, known for their military prowess and political influence.
The name Fabian is believed to mean "bean grower" or "beans," a reference to the Latin word "faba," which means bean. This connection is likely due to the fact that the Fabii were said to have been descended from a legendary ancestor named Fabius, who was said to have been born from a bean planted by his mother, a vestal virgin.
The name Fabian has been used throughout history and has been borne by several notable figures. One of the most famous bearers of the name was Saint Fabian, who became pope in the third century AD. According to tradition, Fabian was miraculously chosen as pope through the intervention of a divine dove, and he is said to have served as pope for 14 years before being martyred under the emperor Decius.
The name Fabian has also been used by several prominent historical figures, including Fabius Maximus Verrucosus, a Roman general known for his delaying tactics against Hannibal during the Second Punic War. The name Fabian was also popular among European royalty, with several kings and princes bearing the name throughout history.
Today, Fabian is still used as a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. It has been consistently ranked among the top 1000 boy names in the United States since the mid-20th century. Despite its ancient origins, Fabian remains a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their sons.
The name Fabian experienced fluctuating popularity over the years, with a peak of 17 births in 1994 and a low of 5 births in multiple years including 2001 and 2003.