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Philip Boy

Popularity: #460 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationFIL-ip / /ˈfɪlɪp/

Greek; Latin

Meaning

Greek: lover of horses; Latin: friend of horses

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Philip originates from the Greek name 'Philippos', which is composed of the elements 'philos', meaning 'loving', and 'hippos', meaning 'horse'. This etymological root reflects a literal meaning of 'lover of horses'. The name was adopted into Latin as 'Philippus' and subsequently made its way into Old French before entering the English language in the form of 'Philip'. The name has been used in various forms across different cultures, maintaining its core meaning throughout its evolution.

Historically, the name Philip has significant milestones, particularly in the context of notable figures. One of the earliest and most prominent bearers was Philip II of Macedon, who reigned in the 4th century BCE and was the father of Alexander the Great. The name also appears in the New Testament, where Philip is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, further solidifying its importance in Christian tradition. The name gained additional prominence through various saints, including Saint Philip, who is recognized in both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions.

Culturally, the name Philip has resonated through various historical contexts, often associated with nobility and leadership. It has been borne by numerous kings and rulers across Europe, including Philip I of France and Philip II of Spain, which contributed to its enduring legacy. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as Phil and Pip, which have been used affectionately in different cultures. Overall, Philip embodies a rich historical and cultural significance that has allowed it to persist through the centuries.

Trend Summary

Philip has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the early to mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Phil
  • Pip

International Variants

  • Felipe (Spanish)
  • Filip (Slavic)
  • Philippe (French)
  • Filippo (Italian)

Famous people named Philip

Philip Seymour Hoffman was an actor best known for Capote, The Master, and Doubt.

Philip Glass is a composer best known for Einstein on the Beach, Koyaanisqatsi, and The Hours.

Philip K. Dick was an author best known for Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, The Man in the High Castle, and A Scanner Darkly.

Philip Pullman is an author best known for His Dark Materials trilogy, The Golden Compass, and Northern Lights.

Philip Rivers is a former professional football player best known for his time with the San Diego Chargers and Indianapolis Colts.

Philip Bailey is a musician best known for being a member of Earth, Wind & Fire and for the hit song.

Fictional characters named Philip

Philip J. Fry is a fictional character from the animated television series Futurama. He is a slacker who is accidentally frozen and wakes up in the 31st century, where he navigates a new world with his friends.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Philip was first seen in the United States in 1880. Philip has ranked as high as #125 nationally, which occurred in 1953, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Philip has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Philip (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 50
10%
TX 50
10%
NY 46
9%
VA 29
6%
FL 29
6%
IL 29
6%
OH 27
5%
PA 21
4%
NC 20
4%
GA 18
4%
WA 16
3%
IN 16
3%
MA 15
3%
MD 15
3%
MI 15
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880186
1881156
1882182
1883166
1884161
1885163
1886187
1887161
1888196
1889183
1890192
1891198
1892239
1893208
1894214
1895211
1896218
1897200
1898244
1899223
1900259
1901232
1902226
1903250
1904266
1905234
1906280
1907356
1908319
1909395
1910418
1911612
19121,237
19131,484
19141,870
19152,328
19162,409
19172,544
19182,733
19192,531
19202,700
19212,703
19222,769
19232,783
19242,921
19252,675
19262,708
19272,677
19282,726
19292,606
19302,655
19312,648
19322,625
19332,530
19342,784
19353,064
19363,033
19373,162
19383,172
19393,174
19403,674
19414,166
19424,603
19434,473
19443,992
19454,111
19465,093
19476,236
19486,161
19496,224
19506,070
19516,097
19526,154
19536,279
19546,279
19556,162
19566,105
19576,012
19585,831
19595,862
19605,508
19615,287
19625,070
19634,758
19644,975
19654,279
19663,954
19673,785
19683,622
19693,540
19703,521
19713,302
19722,778
19732,998
19742,969
19753,010
19762,943
19773,092
19783,298
19793,460
19803,562
19813,581
19823,643
19833,489
19843,518
19853,736
19863,665
19873,839
19883,373
19893,326
19903,142
19912,749
19922,434
19932,270
19941,896
19951,757
19961,725
19971,661
19981,498
19991,326
20001,312
20011,221
20021,201
20031,075
20041,019
2005993
2006909
2007881
2008817
2009765
2010699
2011696
2012715
2013769
2014799
2015706
2016712
2017729
2018693
2019696
2020658
2021675
2022618
2023605
2024586