What does Phebe mean and where does it come from?
The name Phebe has roots in ancient Greece, and it is highlighted in the Christian scripture as Phebe the deaconess. It has been a popular name in Christian communities and was revived in the 19th century as part of the trend towards classical names.
Cultural significance
Phebe has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of radiant, shining.
Peak popularity
Reached #358 in 1882 — currently #5669 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phebe?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phebe?
Phebe works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phebe Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Phebe Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Phebe Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Phebe Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Phebe Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Phebe Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Phebe right now?
Rising fast — up 81 spots — currently #5669 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #5669 | 22 | ▲ up 81 |
| 2024 | #5750 | 22 | ▼ down 1495 · -35% births |
| 2023 | #4255 | 34 | ▲ up 619 · +21% births |
| 2022 | #4874 | 28 | ▲ up 329 · +12% births |
| 2021 | #5203 | 25 | ▼ down 791 · -17% births |
| 2020 | #4412 | 30 | ▲ up 305 · +3% births |
| 2015 | #4717 | 29 | ▼ down 536 · -17% births |
| 2010 | #4181 | 35 | ▼ down 596 · -15% births |
| 2005 | #3585 | 41 | ▲ up 1566 · +86% births |
| 2000 | #5151 | 22 | ▲ up 529 · +38% births |
| 1995 | #5680 | 16 | ▲ up 164 · +7% births |
| 1990 | #5844 | 15 | ▼ down 761 · +7% births |
| 1985 | #5083 | 14 | ▼ down 564 · -12% births |
| 1980 | #4519 | 16 | ▼ down 565 |
| 1975 | #3954 | 16 | — |
The story of Phebe
Phebe has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 2,824 total births recorded, Phebe remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #447 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4255 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phebe in 1882:
Phebe by decade
Phebe peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 201 | |
| 1890s | 181 | |
| 1900s | 127 | |
| 1910s | 244 | |
| 1920s | 238 | |
| 1930s | 191 | |
| 1940s | 189 | |
| 1950s | 132 | |
| 1960s | 147 | |
| 1970s | 167 | |
| 1980s | 139 | |
| 1990s | 169 | |
| 2000s | 323 | |
| 2010s ★ | 346 | |
| 2020s | 74 | |
💎With 2,824 total births, Phebe is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phebe?
What names sound and feel like Phebe?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phebe also consider these
How is Phebe written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Phebe?
Common questions about the name Phebe
What does the name Phebe mean?
Phebe means "radiant, shining" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Phebe?
Phebe is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Phebe?
Phebe originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Phebe a common or rare name?
Phebe is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Phebe?
Phebe naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.