Philip: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced FIL-ip · 2 syllables
Philip means “fond of horses; to love”, from Greek and English.
From Middle English Philip, ultimately from Ancient Greek (Philippos), name of ancient kings of Macedonia, from (philippos, “fond of horses”), from (phileo, “to love”) + (hippos, “horse”).
- Meaning
- fond of horses; to love
- Origin
- Greek, English
- Pronunciation
- FIL-ip
- US rank (2025)
- #527
- US babies a year
- about 611 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1940
- Style
- Vintage, Biblical, Classic
- Nicknames
- Phil
How popular is Philip?
Philip was the #527 name in the US in 2025, given to 568 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1940.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #527 |
| England & Wales | #359 |
| Scotland | #391 |
| Northern Ireland | #392 |
| Ireland | #297 |
| Norway | #90 |
| Canada | #501 |
| Australia | #352 |
How old are people named Philip?
Half of US adults named Philip are older than 59; most are between 27 and 83. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Philip
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Philip have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
Names like Philip
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Philip
What does the name Philip mean?
Philip means “fond of horses; to love”. It comes from Greek and English.
How do you pronounce Philip?
Philip is pronounced FIL-ip.
How popular is the name Philip?
Philip was the #527 name in the US in 2025, given to 568 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1940.
How old are people named Philip?
Half of US adults named Philip are older than 59. Most are between 27 and 83.