# Stevens

/ˈstivənz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stevens
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a surname

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal

A common last name in English-speaking countries.

For teachers: A widespread English surname of patronymic origin, meaning 'son of Steven'.

- The famous poet Wallace Stevens wrote many influential books in the twentieth century.
- The academic paper cited several studies conducted by Professor Stevens during his tenure at the university.

Usage: Capitalized as a proper noun; the spelling with a 'v' is a common variant of 'Stephens'.

### 2. a place name

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

The name of several small towns or areas in the United States.

For teachers: A toponym referring to various townships and unincorporated communities in states such as Minnesota and Pennsylvania.

- They drove through Stevens, Pennsylvania, on their way to the city.
- Historical records indicate that the township of Stevens was established in the late nineteenth century by local settlers.

Usage: Used as a proper noun to identify specific geographic locations.

## Examples

- Mr. Stevens is the new manager of the bank.
- The Stevens family has lived in this neighborhood for over three generations, owning the local hardware store.
- In the novel 'The Remains of the Day', the protagonist Stevens represents the rigid adherence to professional duty at the expense of personal fulfillment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.