Philip Boy
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 50 | |
TX | 50 | |
NY | 46 | |
VA | 29 | |
FL | 29 | |
IL | 29 | |
OH | 27 | |
PA | 21 | |
NC | 20 | |
GA | 18 | |
WA | 16 | |
IN | 16 | |
MA | 15 | |
MD | 15 | |
MI | 15 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 186 |
1881 | 156 |
1882 | 182 |
1883 | 166 |
1884 | 161 |
1885 | 163 |
1886 | 187 |
1887 | 161 |
1888 | 196 |
1889 | 183 |
1890 | 192 |
1891 | 198 |
1892 | 239 |
1893 | 208 |
1894 | 214 |
1895 | 211 |
1896 | 218 |
1897 | 200 |
1898 | 244 |
1899 | 223 |
1900 | 259 |
1901 | 232 |
1902 | 226 |
1903 | 250 |
1904 | 266 |
1905 | 234 |
1906 | 280 |
1907 | 356 |
1908 | 319 |
1909 | 395 |
1910 | 418 |
1911 | 612 |
1912 | 1,237 |
1913 | 1,484 |
1914 | 1,870 |
1915 | 2,328 |
1916 | 2,409 |
1917 | 2,544 |
1918 | 2,733 |
1919 | 2,531 |
1920 | 2,700 |
1921 | 2,703 |
1922 | 2,769 |
1923 | 2,783 |
1924 | 2,921 |
1925 | 2,675 |
1926 | 2,708 |
1927 | 2,677 |
1928 | 2,726 |
1929 | 2,606 |
1930 | 2,655 |
1931 | 2,648 |
1932 | 2,625 |
1933 | 2,530 |
1934 | 2,784 |
1935 | 3,064 |
1936 | 3,033 |
1937 | 3,162 |
1938 | 3,172 |
1939 | 3,174 |
1940 | 3,674 |
1941 | 4,166 |
1942 | 4,603 |
1943 | 4,473 |
1944 | 3,992 |
1945 | 4,111 |
1946 | 5,093 |
1947 | 6,236 |
1948 | 6,161 |
1949 | 6,224 |
1950 | 6,070 |
1951 | 6,097 |
1952 | 6,154 |
1953 | 6,279 |
1954 | 6,279 |
1955 | 6,162 |
1956 | 6,105 |
1957 | 6,012 |
1958 | 5,831 |
1959 | 5,862 |
1960 | 5,508 |
1961 | 5,287 |
1962 | 5,070 |
1963 | 4,758 |
1964 | 4,975 |
1965 | 4,279 |
1966 | 3,954 |
1967 | 3,785 |
1968 | 3,622 |
1969 | 3,540 |
1970 | 3,521 |
1971 | 3,302 |
1972 | 2,778 |
1973 | 2,998 |
1974 | 2,969 |
1975 | 3,010 |
1976 | 2,943 |
1977 | 3,092 |
1978 | 3,298 |
1979 | 3,460 |
1980 | 3,562 |
1981 | 3,581 |
1982 | 3,643 |
1983 | 3,489 |
1984 | 3,518 |
1985 | 3,736 |
1986 | 3,665 |
1987 | 3,839 |
1988 | 3,373 |
1989 | 3,326 |
1990 | 3,142 |
1991 | 2,749 |
1992 | 2,434 |
1993 | 2,270 |
1994 | 1,896 |
1995 | 1,757 |
1996 | 1,725 |
1997 | 1,661 |
1998 | 1,498 |
1999 | 1,326 |
2000 | 1,312 |
2001 | 1,221 |
2002 | 1,201 |
2003 | 1,075 |
2004 | 1,019 |
2005 | 993 |
2006 | 909 |
2007 | 881 |
2008 | 817 |
2009 | 765 |
2010 | 699 |
2011 | 696 |
2012 | 715 |
2013 | 769 |
2014 | 799 |
2015 | 706 |
2016 | 712 |
2017 | 729 |
2018 | 693 |
2019 | 696 |
2020 | 658 |
2021 | 675 |
2022 | 618 |
2023 | 605 |
2024 | 586 |