Stavropoulos Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Stavropoulos (Σταυρόπουλος) is a patronymic name, meaning it is derived from the given name or identifying symbol of a male ancestor. The root Stavro- comes from the first name Stavros (Σταύρος), which originates from the Greek word stavrós, meaning “cross,” one of the most powerful symbols in Orthodox Christianity. The name Stavros became deeply embedded in Greek society as a baptismal name expressing faith and devotion. The suffix -opoulos is a patronymic marker that developed during the Byzantine period and became especially common in the Peloponnese and southern mainland Greece, meaning “son of” or “descendant of.” Consequently, the surname Stavropoulos signifies “the son of Stavros” or, more literally, “the descendant of the cross bearer.”