István

István is a given name of Hungarian origin. It is the Hungarian form of the name Stephen. The name Stephen originates from the Greek word "stephanos," meaning "crown" or "garland." Historically, István is most famously associated with Saint Stephen of Hungary (Szent István), the first king of Hungary, who reigned from around 997 to 1038. He is a significant figure in Hungarian history and culture, credited with Christianizing the country and establishing its foundational institutions.

The name István has been popular in Hungary for centuries and continues to be a common male given name. Variations and diminutive forms of the name also exist within the Hungarian language, such as Isti. Due to Hungarian migration and cultural influence, the name István, or its variations, can be found in communities outside of Hungary, particularly in countries with Hungarian diaspora populations. Notable individuals named István appear in various fields including politics, science, arts, and sports, contributing to the name's continued presence in contemporary society. The name carries a sense of tradition and historical significance within Hungarian culture.