Philip

Pronounced: FIL-ip

Meaning: Lover Of Horses

Gender: Boy
Origin: Greek
Language: English (British)

What does Philip mean?

Philip comes from the ancient Greek name Philippos, which literally means someone who loves horses. In its original language the element phil- means love or fondness and hippos means horse, so the name carries a direct and vivid image.

Today Philip feels classic and steady rather than fanciful. It suggests a calm, reliable character and has associations with history, leadership and tradition without feeling old fashioned. The name sits comfortably alongside both formal surnames and friendly short forms such as Phil, giving it flexibility in tone.

❤️ Why Parents Choose This Name

Time tested and recognisable across many countries and languages.
Conveys a steady, dependable impression suitable for professional life.
Has easy, familiar nicknames like Phil and Pip for informal use.
Works well with traditional middle names and modern surnames.
Has royal and historical associations that feel dignified without being ostentatious.
Short and strong sound that is simple to pronounce and spell.

Historical Context

The name originates in ancient Greece as Philippos, a compound of words meaning love and horse. It was borne by several notable Greeks and later became prominent through Macedonian royalty, most famously Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. Those royal connections helped the name travel across the Mediterranean and into medieval Europe.

Through the Middle Ages and into the modern era the name evolved into local forms such as Philippe in French and Felipe in Spanish. In English the spelling Philip became established early and has remained common. While usage has fluctuated, it retained steady popularity in Britain and other English speaking countries, often chosen for its classical roots and clear, solid sound.

Original Form

Philippos

Variants of Philip

Spelling Variants:Philipp Phillip Felipe Filip Filipe Filippos Philippe Philippos Phillipe

Nicknames:Phil Pip

Short Forms:Phil Pip

Formal Variants:Philippos

Gender counterparts

Filippa Philippa Phillipa Filipa Phillippa Pip Pippa

International Variants

Name	Language
Felipe	Spanish
Filip	Polish
Filippo	Italian
Philippe	French
Philippos	Greek (Classical)
Filipe	Portuguese
Filippos	Greek (Modern)
Phil	English (British)
Philipp	German (Modern)
Phillip	English (British)
Phillipe	English (Modern)
Phillips	English (British)

Great Middle Names for Philip

Philip pairs well with traditional middle names that balance its classic tone.

Philip Alexander
Philip Arthur
Philip Edward
Philip George
Philip Henry
Philip James
Philip Thomas

Sibling names that go well with Philip

Choose sibling names that match Philip’s classic, steady character for a cohesive sibset.

For Sisters

Alice Beatrice Charlotte Eleanor Matilda Angeliki Brenda Carole Dorinda Geraldin

For Brothers

Charles Edward George Henry James Thomas William Alexandros Andros Bertrand

Popularity of Philip over time

In 2025, Philip was given to 71 boys in the UK and 568 boys in the US. Philip has declined in usage over the last 20 years, but remains an uncommon boys' name especially in the US.

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