"lover of horses"
Felipe
Pronunciation: [ f-uhl-EEP ]
A royal Spanish name meaning 'lover of horses'
Meaning & Origin
The Story of Felipe
Felipe is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Philip, which derives from the ancient Greek 'Philippos,' a compound of 'philos' (loving) and 'hippos' (horse). The name was borne by Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, making it one of the most historically significant names in Western history. It came to the Iberian Peninsula via Latin and became embedded in Spanish royal tradition.
Felipe has been a top name in Spain and Latin America for centuries, anchored by royal and religious associations. In the US, it has been a steady presence in Latino communities since at least the 1970s. When King Felipe VI ascended to the Spanish throne in 2014, the name received renewed attention internationally.
Felipe is a deeply prestigious name in Spain — King Felipe VI is the current Spanish monarch. In Latin America, it has been popular across all social classes. The name also has Catholic resonance through Saint Philip the Apostle.
Fun Facts
- King Felipe VI of Spain is the current monarch (2014-present)
- Philip of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, is one of history's most famous bearers
- The Philippines were named after King Felipe II of Spain
Felipe in Other Languages
Famous People Named Felipe
Felipe Massa
Athlete
1981
Brazilian Formula One racing driver who competed for Ferrari and Williams
Felipe VI of Spain
Royalty
1968
Current King of Spain, who ascended to the throne in 2014
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 3
- Popularity Rank
- #927
- Total SSA Count
- 250
- Cultural Origins
- Spanish Portuguese Latin American
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Pairs Well With
Sibling Names
Also a Girl Name
Felipe is also used as a girl name, ranked #67116.
View Felipe as a girl name →Similar Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Felipe
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About the Name Felipe
Felipe is a boy name with Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin American origins . The name means "lover of horses" in Ancient Greek .
Is Felipe a boy or girl name? Felipe is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #927 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #67,116. Felipe is more commonly used as a boy name.
Felipe is currently ranked #927 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Felipe has 3 syllables and is pronounced f-uhl-EEP, making it distinctive and memorable.
Common nicknames for Felipe include Feli, Pipe, and Phil. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Felipe include Felix . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.