Philippus: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman)".It derives from the Greek word "philéō híppos > phílippos".
In Greek tradition, Philippus holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Philippus
Quick facts about Philippus
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe).
Etymology & Details
Name Root
philéō híppos > phílippos
How to Pronounce Philippus
Philippus is pronounced /ˈfɪlɪpəs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Phil-ippus
Say it like: "FEEHLEEHPOOHS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Philippus enjoys international appeal, used in 6 different linguistic and cultural contexts including ancient Greek (Latinized), old norse, swedish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
ancient Greek (Latinized)old norseswedishdanishdutchold swedish
Frequently Asked Questions About Philippus
What does the name Philippus mean?
Philippus means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe).". The name comes from philéō híppos > phílippos. In its original form, the name derives from philéō (φιλέω) híppos (ῐ̔́ππος) Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Philippus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe)." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Philippus offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Philippus?
Philippus is a greek name. The name traces back to philéō híppos > phílippos. The original form philéō (φιλέω) híppos (ῐ̔́ππος) Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Philippus spread to become common in ancient Greek (Latinized), old norse, swedish, danish and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe)." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Philippus a boy or girl name?
Philippus is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Philippus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe)." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Philippus?
Philippus is pronounced "/ˈfɪlɪpəs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Philippus is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in ancient Greek (Latinized), old norse, swedish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Philippus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root philéō híppos > phílippos influences how Philippus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Philippus?
Philippus is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Philippus gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Philippus's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe)." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Philippus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Philippus commonly used?
Philippus spans multiple cultures, including ancient Greek (Latinized), old norse, swedish, and 3 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Philippus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Philippus, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Phílippos (Φῐ́λῐππος),” composed of two elements: “philéō (φιλέω)” (love, like, kindly, welcome) plus “híppos (ῐ̔́ππος)” (horse, cavalry, horseman). In turn, the name means “horse-loving, fond of horses.” In Ancient Greece, the ownership of horses was available only to those rich enough to afford them. Thus, “lover of horses” can also be considered as “noble.” Prominent Philips, who popularized the name includes Kings of Macedon “Philippos” and one of the apostles of early Christianity. The name was also an epithet of Alexander the Great. It should be noted for clarity; the word “horse” is frequently found in ancient Greek names (for example, Hipparchus, Hippocrates, Hippolytus, and Xanthippe)." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Philippus into their naming traditions. A child named Philippus will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Philippus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.