Phineas Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationFIN-ee-us / /ˈfɪniəs/Hebrew; Greek
Meaning
Hebrew: 'oracle'; Greek: 'the one who is prophetic'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Phineas has its roots in ancient Hebrew, derived from the name פִּנְחָס (Pinchas), which is believed to mean "oracle" or "serpent". The name appears in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Numbers, where Phineas is noted as a zealous priest and grandson of Aaron, the brother of Moses. The name was subsequently transliterated into Greek as Φινεές (Phineas) and later adopted into Latin as Phineas, which facilitated its entry into English through the influence of the Latin Vulgate and other biblical translations.
Phineas is mentioned in significant biblical narratives, particularly for his role in stopping a plague among the Israelites by taking decisive action against immorality, which earned him a covenant of peace from God. This event is dated to the late 13th century BCE, making Phineas a figure of considerable historical and religious importance. His legacy continued through various translations of the Bible, including the King James Version in the early 17th century, which helped to solidify the name's presence in Christian contexts.
Culturally, the name Phineas has been associated with zeal, righteousness, and a strong moral compass, reflecting the character of its biblical namesake. Over the centuries, it has been used in various literary and artistic works, often symbolizing a fierce commitment to one's beliefs or principles. The diminutive form "Finn" is sometimes derived from Phineas, although its usage varies. Overall, the name carries a weight of historical significance and moral resonance that has allowed it to endure through the ages.
Trend Summary
Phineas has seen a modest resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly due to cultural references in media.
Similar Names
Variants
- Phin
- Finn
International Variants
- Finéas (Spanish)
- Phinée (French)
Famous people named Phineas
Phineas Taylor Barnum is a showman and businessman best known for founding the Barnum & Bailey Circus, promoting the Feejee Mermaid, and popularizing the circus in America.
Fictional characters named Phineas
Phineas Flynn is a fictional character from the animated television series Phineas and Ferb. He is one of the two main protagonists who embarks on imaginative adventures during his summer vacation.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Phineas was first seen in the United States in 1880. Phineas has ranked as high as #1281 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Ohio, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Phineas has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Phineas (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 12 | |
WA | 7 | |
GA | 6 | |
UT | 5 | |
ID | 5 | |
IN | 5 | |
NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 5 |
1891 | 5 |
1897 | 5 |
1915 | 5 |
1916 | 9 |
1917 | 10 |
1918 | 9 |
1919 | 5 |
1920 | 6 |
1922 | 7 |
1923 | 7 |
1925 | 5 |
1926 | 8 |
1930 | 8 |
1932 | 5 |
1933 | 6 |
1934 | 5 |
1938 | 5 |
1940 | 5 |
1947 | 5 |
1949 | 5 |
1950 | 5 |
1953 | 6 |
1955 | 5 |
1958 | 7 |
1961 | 5 |
1962 | 6 |
1963 | 7 |
1967 | 8 |
1971 | 5 |
1972 | 6 |
1974 | 7 |
1976 | 8 |
1980 | 5 |
1981 | 5 |
1982 | 5 |
1983 | 11 |
1985 | 8 |
1988 | 5 |
1989 | 8 |
1991 | 5 |
1992 | 8 |
1994 | 6 |
1995 | 7 |
1996 | 8 |
1997 | 11 |
1998 | 17 |
1999 | 14 |
2000 | 27 |
2001 | 28 |
2002 | 28 |
2003 | 39 |
2004 | 40 |
2005 | 43 |
2006 | 66 |
2007 | 88 |
2008 | 117 |
2009 | 130 |
2010 | 141 |
2011 | 120 |
2012 | 105 |
2013 | 98 |
2014 | 106 |
2015 | 95 |
2016 | 142 |
2017 | 129 |
2018 | 136 |
2019 | 117 |
2020 | 121 |
2021 | 131 |
2022 | 108 |
2023 | 98 |
2024 | 114 |