The name Sebastian originated from the Latin name Sebastianus, which derived from the Greek name Sebastianos. Sebastianos is the Greek adjective meaning "venerable" or "revered." The name rose to prominence in the 3rd century AD during the Roman era and was associated with the Christian Saint Sebastian, a 3rd-century Roman martyr.

Sebastian was a favored name among early Christians and appears in various religious texts and historical records from the 4th century onward. The name was particularly popular in regions where Christianity spread, including parts of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name was Saint Sebastian, a Roman soldier who was martyred for his Christian faith during the reign of Emperor Diocletian in the late 3rd century AD. Saint Sebastian became a prominent figure in Christian iconography and is often depicted with arrows piercing his body.

Another notable figure named Sebastian was Sebastian I, who served as Pope from 615 to 618 AD. He is remembered for his efforts to promote church unity and his condemnation of the Monophysite heresy.

During the Middle Ages, the name Sebastian gained popularity across Europe. One of the most renowned individuals with this name was Sebastian Brant (1457-1521), a German humanist and satirist best known for his satirical work "The Ship of Fools."

In the Renaissance era, the name continued to be used by notable figures, including Sebastian Cabot (1476-1557), an Italian navigator and explorer who played a significant role in the Age of Discovery, and Sebastian Virdung (c. 1465-c. 1511), a German author and musician who wrote one of the earliest treatises on musical instruments.

Later in history, Sebastian Bach (1685-1750), the renowned German composer and musician, carried the name. His works, including the Brandenburg Concertos and the St. Matthew Passion, are considered masterpieces of the Baroque period.

Another famous bearer of the name was Sebastian Junger (born 1962), an American journalist, author, and filmmaker known for his works on conflict and war, such as "The Perfect Storm" and "Restrepo."