Stefanidis Family History
Stefanidis Surname Meaning
Greek: patronymic from the personal name Stefanos (see Steven). The suffix -idis meaning ‘son/descendant of’ is a variant of the classical -ides which was revived in the 19th century.
It was particularly adopted by Greeks from Asia Minor and Eastern Thrace. This practice reflects a cultural emphasis on lineage and family heritage within Greek naming conventions.
The use of patronymics is common in many cultures, serving as a way to connect individuals to their ancestors. In the case of Greek naming traditions, these suffixes help preserve family identities over generations.
Furthermore, the resurgence of this naming convention in the 19th century coincided with a period of national awakening and cultural revitalization for the Greek people.
As such, names like Stefanos and their patronymic forms continue to be significant in Greek culture today.
Source: Dictionary of American Family Names 2nd edition, 2022