Phillip

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What does the baby name Phillip mean? Learn about what Phillip means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Phillip - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Phillip

P-H-I-L-L-I-P, is a 7-letter male given name.

Pronunciation of Phillip

FEE lip

Meaning of Phillip

Lover of horses.

Origin of Phillip

The name 'Phillip' has its origins in ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek name Philippos, which is a combination of the words 'philein' meaning 'to love' and 'hippos' meaning 'horse'. Therefore, the name 'Phillip' can be interpreted as 'lover of horses' or 'one who loves horses'. In Greek mythology, horses were highly regarded and associated with strength and power, which adds a sense of grandeur to the name.

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Popularity of Phillip

Throughout history, the name 'Phillip' has experienced periods of both popularity and decline. In ancient Greece, it was a common name among the nobility and held in high regard. However, it was not until the spread of Christianity that the name gained widespread popularity in Europe. This can be attributed to the influence of Saint Philip, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.

In more recent times, the name 'Phillip' has experienced fluctuations in popularity. According to data from the Social Security Administration, the name reached its peak in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, consistently ranking among the top 100 names for boys. However, in recent decades, its popularity has declined, and it is now less commonly chosen by parents.

Phillip currently has 350 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Devin is slightly more popular than Phillip.

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Etymology of Phillip

The etymology of the name 'Phillip' can be traced back to its Greek roots. As mentioned earlier, the name is derived from the combination of 'philein' and 'hippos'. The Greek word 'philein' signifies love or affection, while 'hippos' refers to horses. This combination reflects the ancient Greek appreciation for horses and their symbolic association with love and loyalty.

Cultural Significance of Phillip

The name 'Phillip' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In ancient Greece, it was associated with nobility and power, as many prominent figures bore this name. One notable example is Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. Philip II was a skilled military strategist and ruler who greatly expanded the Macedonian Empire.

In Christianity, the name 'Phillip' is closely associated with Saint Philip. As one of the twelve apostles, Saint Philip played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ. He is often depicted as a compassionate and wise disciple, known for his ability to communicate effectively and bring others to faith.