Meaning
Lover of horses
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy / Male
Pronunciation
FIL-ip
Name story
What Philip communicates
Philip is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Lover of horses". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced FIL-ip and sits at a popularity score of 60/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Philip feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Greek heritage or its core idea of "Lover of horses". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Philip
- PPrince Philip
- PPhilip Roth
- PPhilip Seymour Hoffman
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Philip
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Philip mean?
The name Philip means "Lover of horses". It is a name of Greek origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Greek naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Philip.
What is the origin of the name Philip?
Philip originates from Greek. Names of Greek origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Philip fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Lover of horses" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Philip a popular name?
Philip appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Philip sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Philip?
Names similar to Philip include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Philip but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Greek heritage or the same idea of "Lover of horses".
How do you pronounce Philip?
Philip is pronounced "FIL-ip". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Philip is said.
Is Philip a boy or a girl name?
Philip is most commonly used as a boy name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Greek roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Philip symbolize?
The name Philip symbolizes "Lover of horses". That theme gives Philip a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Lover of horses" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Philip a good baby name?
Philip is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Lover of horses", has clear Greek heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.