Phillip

Origin

Greek origin, from 'Philippos', meaning 'lover of horses'. The name appears in ancient texts such as the New Testament, notably as the name of one of the Apostles, Saint Philip. In Australian cultural context, the name was popularised through British influence and remains common among Christian communities. It is not associated with Aboriginal or Māori roots.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'Friend of horses' or 'lover of horses'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes qualities of strength, companionship, and reliability, often linked with rural and sporting backgrounds.

Pronunciation

/ˈfɪlɪp/ (FILL-ip) — stress on the first syllable, with a short 'i' sound as in 'fill'. Australian English pronunciation very similar to British pronunciation.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 25 October (Feast of Saint Philip in Catholic tradition)
• Early December (traditionally celebrated in Orthodox calendars)
• 25 September (Māori Matariki - New Year, linked culturally through historical European influence)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with phillip:

• Charlotte and Philip
• Emma and Philip
• William and Philip

Fun Facts

• The name Philip was borne by several British and Australian monarchs, including Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
• Australian sportspeople, including cricketers and rugby players, often carry the name.
• The name has been used for numerous landmarks and institutions, such as the City of Phillip in Canberra.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name phillip:

• Dependable
• Traditional
• Sociable
• Leadership qualities

Aesthetic Qualities

Classic and balanced typographically; often associated with traditional and formal design styles in Australian contexts, conveying a sense of stability and heritage.

Geographical Distribution

Widespread across Australia, with higher concentrations in urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and in rural communities reflecting its Roman Catholic and Anglican cultural roots.

Numerological Significance

Name number 7, associated with introspection, spirituality, and analytical minds in numerology interpretations, aligning with traits of wisdom and discernment.

Astrological Connections

Linked to Mercury, governing communication, intellect, and adaptability; suitable for birth months aligned with Gemini and Virgo, emphasizing mental agility and curiosity.

Historical Context

Saint Philip, one of the apostles, gives the name religious significance. The name was popular among early European settlers and has been borne by notable Australians, such as Sir Philip Woolcott Cave, a prominent legal figure, and various sports stars.

Linguistic Adaptability

Adapted easily across languages with minor variations; popular in many European languages and retained in its original form in English-speaking countries.

Famous People Named phillip

• Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh)
• Phil Hughes (Australian cricketer)
• Phil Rudd (AC/DC drummer)
• Phil Edmonds (cricketer and sports administrator)

Popularity in Australia