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Xavier

♂ Boy

Pronounced ZAY-vee-ur /ˈzeɪ.vi.ər/High

Meaning: The new house; from Basque Etxeberri (new house), or possibly from Arabic zabier (bright)Medium

In 30 seconds: A distinctive Basque name meaning 'the new house,' Xavier was brought to global attention by Saint Francis Xavier, co-founder of the Jesuits. It has been a cool, stylish American top-100 name for decades.
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Origin HighBasque, Arabic
MeaningThe new house; from Basque Etxeberri (new house), or possibly from Arabic zabier (bright)
Peak year2007
Total births (all-time)≈ 130,244

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 200718862017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Xavier comes from the Basque place name Etxeberri (also written Xabier), meaning 'the new house.' The castle of Javier in Navarre, Spain was the birthplace of Saint Francis Xavier, the Jesuit missionary.

Popularized globally through Saint Francis Xavier's missionary work in Asia, the name spread through Catholic communities. In the United States it entered the top 100 boys' names and has remained a popular choice.

Did you know? Saint Francis Xavier (1506–1552) was born Francisco de Jasso y Azpilicueta at the castle of Xavier in Navarre, Spain — giving his home castle's name to the world.

Variations

JavierXaviZavier

Nicknames

XavZav

Famous Bearers

  • ★Francis Xavier (1506–1552)
    Spanish Jesuit missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), patron saint of missionaries.

If you like Xavier…

Javier— the Spanish form of the same name with the same Basque saint heritage
Sebastian— multi-syllable saint's name with the same cool distinctive character
Adriel— unusual Biblical name with the same distinctive, uncommon sound

Frequently Asked

What does the name Xavier mean?

Xavier comes from the Basque place name Etxeberri, meaning 'the new house.' It was the name of the castle where Saint Francis Xavier was born.

How do you pronounce Xavier?

It is said ZAY-vee-ur /ˈzeɪ.vi.ər/ — three syllables, stress on the first.

Is Xavier a boy or girl name?

Xavier is used almost exclusively as a boy's name.

How popular is Xavier?

Xavier has been in the U.S. top 100 boys' names for several decades.