International Variations of Christopher
One of the most popular staples of the last several decades, classic Christopher is rich with history and religious significance.
There are several handsome variations of Christopher used across the globe, ranging from Kristoff which was especially familiarized through Disney's Frozen, as well as numerous rare options like Scottish Kester, Finnish Risto, and Spanish Cristobal.
Here is our full list of international variations of Christopher, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.
RELATED:
- Kit
Origin:
English, diminutive of ChristopherMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Actor Kit Harington, aka the dreamy Jon Snow on Game of Thrones, has given this nickname-name new style and appeal for boys. Actress Jodie Foster used it for her son back in the 2000s, while actor Kit Connor of Heartstopper fame may have introduced it to a wider audience.
- Christopher
Origin:
Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Christopher derived from the Greek Christophoros, which is composed of the elements Christos, referring to Christ, and phero, meaning "to bear."
- Topher
Origin:
Diminutive of ChristopherDescription:
The new kid on the block in terms of Christopher short forms, it was introduced into the mix by actor Topher Grace, who didn't like Chris.
- Kester
Origin:
Scottish form of ChristopherMeaning:
"one who carries Christ"Description:
Nearly unknown outside the British Isles, this old Scottish variation has a sleek surname feel that can make an excellent update of the flagging Christopher.
- Christie
Origin:
Scottish and Irish diminutive of ChristopherMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Kit and Topher are the Christopher nicknames du jour, thanks to actors Harington and Grace. But now that Chris is feeling less ubiquitous, this jaunty Scottish and Irish short form has a certain charm.
- Christos
Origin:
Greek, diminutive of ChristopherDescription:
A Greek classic.
- Kristoffer
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Christopher, Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
This Scandinavian spin on Christopher gives that enduring classic a lighter, more individual twist, though many may see it as simply a kree8iv spelling.
- Kristoffer
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Christopher, Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
This Scandinavian spin on Christopher gives that enduring classic a lighter, more individual twist, though many may see it as simply a kree8iv spelling.
- Kristoff
Description:
Kristoff is a masculine name of Slavic and Scandinavian origin, serving as a variation of Christopher, which means 'bearer of Christ' from the Greek 'Christophoros'. The name gained significant recognition in modern popular culture through the character Kristoff in Disney's 'Frozen' films. Before this exposure, the name was more commonly found in Northern European countries, particularly in Russia, Norway, and Sweden. Kristoff has a strong, distinctive sound while maintaining a friendly accessibility. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, it offers families a slightly unique alternative to the more traditional Christopher, with the same meaningful religious connection but a more distinctive Nordic flair.
- Kristof
Origin:
Slavic variation of Christopher, Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Attractive attenuated form of the popular Christopher, well used throughout Europe, appearing as Christophe in France and Christoph in Germany.
- Risto
Origin:
Finnish variation of ChristopherMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
A lively and charming nickname for Christopher — more modern than Chris.
- Christoffer
Description:
Christoffer is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, primarily used in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark as a variant of Christopher. Derived from the Greek elements 'Christos' meaning 'Christ' or 'anointed one' and 'phoros' meaning 'bearer,' the name literally translates to 'Christ-bearer.' The Scandinavian spelling with double 'f' gives the name its distinctive Nordic character. Christoffer has maintained steady popularity throughout Northern Europe, though it's less common internationally than the more widely used Christopher. In Scandinavian countries, it's appreciated for its strong historical roots while fitting well with contemporary naming trends. The name carries connotations of strength and reliability, with nicknames like Chris, Christo, or Toffer sometimes used affectionately.
- Christoffer
Description:
Christoffer is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, primarily used in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark as a variant of Christopher. Derived from the Greek elements 'Christos' meaning 'Christ' or 'anointed one' and 'phoros' meaning 'bearer,' the name literally translates to 'Christ-bearer.' The Scandinavian spelling with double 'f' gives the name its distinctive Nordic character. Christoffer has maintained steady popularity throughout Northern Europe, though it's less common internationally than the more widely used Christopher. In Scandinavian countries, it's appreciated for its strong historical roots while fitting well with contemporary naming trends. The name carries connotations of strength and reliability, with nicknames like Chris, Christo, or Toffer sometimes used affectionately.
- Christophe
Description:
Christophe is the French variation of Christopher, a masculine name with Greek origins meaning 'bearer of Christ.' This elegant form maintains the name's connection to Saint Christopher, the legendary patron saint of travelers who, according to tradition, carried the Christ child across a dangerous river. Popular throughout French-speaking regions including France, Canada, Haiti, and parts of Switzerland, Christophe combines classical roots with Gallic sophistication. While it shares the meaning and heritage of Christopher, the French pronunciation (krees-TOFF) and spelling give it a distinctive continental flair. The name has maintained steady popularity in Francophone countries, appreciated for its cultural richness and timeless appeal.
- Krzysztof
Origin:
Polish, from GreekMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
The Polish form of Christopher.
- Christophoros
Description:
Christophoros is the original Greek form of Christopher, a masculine name with profound historical roots. It derives from the Greek elements 'Christos' meaning 'Christ' and 'phoros' meaning 'bearer,' together translating to 'Christ-bearer.' In Orthodox Christian tradition, Saint Christophoros (Saint Christopher) was a martyr often depicted carrying the Christ child across a river. While the shortened Christopher has become immensely popular worldwide, the full Greek form Christophoros remains relatively uncommon outside of Greece and Greek Orthodox communities. The name carries a sense of ancient dignity and religious significance. Its multisyllabic, melodious quality gives it a distinctive classical flair that connects directly to its Hellenic origins.
- Khrystofor
Description:
Khrystofor is a masculine name representing an Eastern Slavic or Ukrainian variant of Christopher, which derives from Greek elements meaning 'bearing Christ.' This distinctive spelling reflects the Cyrillic transliteration used in Eastern European Orthodox traditions. While Christopher remains common in Western countries, Khrystofor offers a direct connection to Eastern European heritage and Orthodox Christian traditions. The name carries the same religious significance as its more familiar variant, referencing the legend of Saint Christopher carrying the Christ child across a river. The distinctive 'Kh' beginning and 'or' ending reflect authentic linguistic patterns from Ukrainian or Russian naming traditions. Though rare outside Eastern Europe, it provides a meaningful way to honor Slavic ancestry.
- Kristapor
Description:
Kristapor is a masculine name of Armenian origin, being the Armenian form of Christopher. The name derives from Greek elements meaning 'Christ-bearer' or 'bearing Christ.' In Armenian culture, Kristapor (Քրիստափոր) has historical and religious significance, with Saint Kristapor (Christopher) being venerated in the Armenian Apostolic Church. The name reflects Armenia's deep Christian heritage dating back to the early 4th century when Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion. While primarily used within Armenian communities, both in Armenia and throughout the diaspora, Kristapor carries cultural pride and religious significance. The name combines traditional meaning with a distinctive phonetic quality that sets it apart from more common Christopher variants.
- Khristos
Description:
Khristos is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing a variant spelling of Christos (Χριστός), which means "anointed one" in Greek. This name directly relates to the Greek title for Jesus Christ, where "Christos" was the Greek translation of the Hebrew word "Messiah." The spelling with 'Kh' emphasizes the Greek heritage and traditional pronunciation, where the initial sound is more guttural than the common English 'Ch' sound. While relatively uncommon as a given name in Western countries, it is used in Greek Orthodox communities and among families with Greek heritage. The name carries deep religious significance while connecting its bearer to ancient Greek culture and language traditions. Khristos projects dignity, spiritual depth, and cultural richness.
- Christofferson
Description:
Christofferson is a patronymic surname that has evolved into occasional use as a masculine given name. Derived from the Norse name 'Kristoffer' (Christopher) plus 'son,' meaning 'son of Christopher,' it reflects Scandinavian naming traditions. This name carries an inherent sense of heritage and legacy, honoring ancestral connections. As a first name, Christofferson remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with historical roots. It offers the friendly nickname options 'Chris' or 'Toff,' while maintaining a formal, distinguished quality in its full form. The name conveys strength and tradition, with its multi-syllabic structure lending a certain gravitas to those who bear it.