Christoferus

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Khrīstóphoros ‎(Χρῑστόφορος),” composed of two elements: “khrī́ō ‎(χρῑ́ω) -tos ‎(-τος) khrīstós ‎(χρῑστός)” (Messiah or Christ, an epithet of Jesus of Nazareth, to be rubbed on, used as ointment or salve) plus “phérō ‎(φέρω) férein (φέρειν)” (bring, bear, carry). In turn, the name means “Christ-bearer, the one who bears Christ (in his soul).” The name originates in the Christian legend of St. Christopher. As a first name, Christopher has been in use since the 15th-century. The meaning of the name suggested the legend of St. Christopher carrying the Christ child across the water. The name, frequently cited as religious and even zealous, has found modern popularity in part due to historical figures. With the European exploration of the Americas following the navigation of Christopher Columbus, the name retained its reverent stature but allowed for its removal from purely religious uses and distinction.