Stavropoulou Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Stavropoulou (Σταυροπούλου) is a patronymic family name and the feminine form of Stavropoulos, 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,” a powerful symbol in Orthodox Christianity. The name Stavros became deeply rooted in Greek society due to its strong religious significance and frequent use as a baptismal name. The suffix -opoulos is a patronymic marker historically associated with the Peloponnese and southern mainland Greece, meaning “son of” or “descendant of,” while the ending -ou represents the feminine genitive form, meaning “of” or “belonging to.” Consequently, the surname Stavropoulou signifies “of the family of Stavros” or “the descendant of the cross bearer,” while indicating gender rather than a different origin.