Philippa

Pronunciation: [ f-ihl-IHP-uh ]

Girl Name #2,636 Most Popular Hidden Gem 3 Syllables

Royal grace with ancient Greek equestrian roots

English German Italian Greek Dutch

Classic Elegant Royal Sophisticated

Meaning & Origin

"lover of horses, friend to horses"

Origin: Greek

Language: Greek

"fond of horses (philos + hippos)"

Origin: Ancient Greek

Language: Latin

The Story of Philippa

Philippa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from the ancient Greek Philippos — combining philos (friend, lover) and hippos (horse). Horses were the supreme symbol of power and nobility in ancient Greece, so naming a child lover of horses was the highest compliment. The name spread throughout the Hellenistic world with Alexander the Great (whose father was Philip II of Macedon), and entered Western European naming through the Church and aristocracy during the medieval period.

Philippa has long been favored by the British aristocracy and royal families. It gained modern visibility through Pippa Middleton (born Philippa Charlotte), sister of Catherine, Princess of Wales, whose prominent role at the 2011 royal wedding brought the name into global conversation.

Philippa carries centuries of royal and noble heritage. Philippa of Hainault, Queen of England (1314-1369), was beloved by her subjects and is credited with mercy during the Hundred Years War. The name represents sophisticated English heritage and classical learning.

Fun Facts

Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, bore the masculine form — lover of horses
Pippa Middleton (born Philippa Charlotte) became a global style icon after the 2011 royal wedding

Philippa in Other Languages

Greek Φιλίππα

French Philippine

German Philippa

Italian Filippa

Spanish Felipa

Portuguese Filipa

Famous People Named Philippa

Pippa Middleton

Other

1983

British socialite and author (born Philippa Charlotte Middleton), sister of Catherine, Princess of Wales

Philippa Gregory

Writer

1954

British author of historical fiction including The Other Boleyn Girl and the Cousins War series

Philippa of Hainault

Royalty

1314

Queen of England as wife of Edward III, known for her mercy and patronage of scholars and poets including Froissart

Quick Facts

Gender: Girl
Syllables: 3
Popularity Rank: #2,636
Total SSA Count: 66
Cultural Origins: English German Italian Greek Dutch
Pronunciation: Moderate
Formality: Formal
Cross-Cultural Ease: Moderate

Alternative Spellings

Philomena #1822

Common Nicknames

Pippa Phil Pip

Pairs Well With

Philippa Rose Philippa Anne Philippa Jane Philippa Catherine Philippa Margaret Philippa Louise

Sibling Names

Georgiana Edmund Cecily Hugo Arabella Rupert

Similar Names

Poppy Pepper Piper Poppi

Playground Safety

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Frequently Asked Questions About Philippa

What does the name Philippa mean?

"lover of horses, friend to horses" (from Greek). "fond of horses (philos + hippos)" (from Ancient Greek). Philippa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from the ancient Greek Philippos — combining philos (friend, lover) and hippos (horse). Horses were the supreme symbol of power and nobility in ancient Greece, so naming a child lover of horses was the highest compliment. The name spread throughout the Hellenistic world with Alexander the Great (whose father was Philip II of Macedon), and entered Western European naming through the Church and aristocracy during the medieval period.

What is the origin of the name Philippa?

Philippa has Greek, Ancient Greek, English, German, Italian, and Dutch origins. In Greek, it means "lover of horses, friend to horses". In Ancient Greek, it means "fond of horses (philos + hippos)".

Is Philippa a boy or girl name?

Philippa is primarily used as a girl name.

How do you pronounce Philippa?

Philippa is pronounced f-ihl-IHP-uh.

How popular is the name Philippa?

Philippa is currently ranked #2636 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

What are common nicknames for Philippa?

Common nicknames for Philippa include Pippa, Phil, and Pip.

What are good middle names for Philippa?

Popular middle name pairings include Philippa Rose, Philippa Anne, Philippa Jane, Philippa Catherine, Philippa Margaret, and Philippa Louise.

What are good sibling names for Philippa?

Names that pair well with Philippa as siblings include Georgiana, Edmund, Cecily, Hugo, Arabella, and Rupert.

How many syllables does Philippa have?

Philippa has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.

Is Philippa a common or rare name?

Philippa is an uncommon name, ranked #2636 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Philippa

Philippa is a girl name with English, German, Italian, Greek, and Dutch origins . The name means "lover of horses, friend to horses" in Greek .

Philippa is currently ranked #2,636 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Philippa has 3 syllables and is pronounced f-ihl-IHP-uh, making it distinctive and memorable.

Common nicknames for Philippa include Pippa, Phil, and Pip. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.

Alternative spellings of Philippa include Philomena . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.