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Apphia

Girl Name #4,850 Most Popular Hidden Gem 3 Syllables 6 Letters

A rare biblical saint name of ancient beauty

Biblical Christian Greek
Spiritual Vintage Elegant Literary

Meaning & Origin

"productive, fruitful"
Origin: Phrygian/Greek
Language: Greek
"beloved, dear one"
Origin: Hebrew
Language: Hebrew

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The Story of Apphia

Apphia is an ancient name of Greek or Hebrew origin mentioned in the New Testament epistle of Philemon (verse 2), where she is called a beloved sister in the early Christian community. The name likely derives from the Phrygian word meaning productive or fruitful, or possibly from a Hebrew root. It was common in the Greco-Roman world during the first century AD.

Apphia has remained rare throughout history, used almost exclusively in devout Christian communities who name children after New Testament figures. It has experienced a minor revival among parents seeking deeply biblical names with historical gravitas.

In Christian tradition, Apphia is venerated as a saint — tradition holds she was a member of Philemon household and was martyred for her faith. She is commemorated in both Eastern Orthodox and Catholic traditions.

Fun Facts

  • Apphia appears only once in the entire Bible, in the book of Philemon verse 2
  • She is recognized as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church, celebrated on November 22

Apphia in Other Languages

Greek Απφία
Latin Apphia
Russian Аппия
Spanish Afia

Popularity Over Time

#4,850
Current Rank
Stable
Trend
Rising Fast Based on SSA data 1880–present

Famous People Named Apphia

S

Saint Apphia

Religious

Early Christian woman mentioned in Philemon 2, venerated as a martyr and saint in Eastern Orthodox tradition

Quick Facts

Gender
Girl
Syllables
3
Popularity Rank
#4,850
Total SSA Count
28
Cultural Origins
Biblical Christian Greek
Pronunciation
Moderate
Formality
Formal
Cross-Cultural Ease
Low

Common Nicknames

Aphia Phia

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Frequently Asked Questions About Apphia

What does the name Apphia mean?
"productive, fruitful" (from Phrygian/Greek). "beloved, dear one" (from Hebrew). Apphia is an ancient name of Greek or Hebrew origin mentioned in the New Testament epistle of Philemon (verse 2), where she is called a beloved sister in the early Christian community. The name likely derives from the Phrygian word meaning productive or fruitful, or possibly from a Hebrew root. It was common in the Greco-Roman world during the first century AD.
What is the origin of the name Apphia?
Apphia has Phrygian/Greek, Hebrew, Biblical, Christian, and Greek origins. In Phrygian/Greek, it means "productive, fruitful". In Hebrew, it means "beloved, dear one".
Is Apphia a boy or girl name?
Apphia is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Apphia?
Apphia is currently ranked #4850 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Apphia?
Common nicknames for Apphia include Aphia and Phia.
What are good middle names for Apphia?
Popular middle name pairings include Apphia Grace, Apphia Joy, Apphia Rose, Apphia Mae, Apphia Claire, and Apphia Beth.
What are good sibling names for Apphia?
Names that pair well with Apphia as siblings include Priscilla, Lydia, Silas, Titus, Phoebe, and Dorcas.
How many syllables does Apphia have?
Apphia has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.
Is Apphia a common or rare name?
Apphia is an uncommon name, ranked #4850 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Apphia

Apphia is a girl name with Biblical, Christian, and Greek origins . The name means "productive, fruitful" in Phrygian/Greek .

Apphia is currently ranked #4,850 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Apphia has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and memorable.

Common nicknames for Apphia include Aphia and Phia. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.

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