What does Phillips mean and where does it come from?
Phillips is an English surname that has transitioned into use as a first name. The name traces back to the ancient Greeks and is historically significant. Many notable individuals bear the name, including various scholars, politicians, and artists. It was popularized in the early 20th century in the
Cultural significance
Phillips has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of philip, which is derived from the greek name 'philippos', meaning lover of horses..
Peak popularity
Reached #1147 in 1909 — currently #10516 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phillips?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phillips?
Phillips works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phillips Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phillips Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phillips Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phillips Claire
French influence · crisp
Phillips Jane
Literary · strong
Phillips Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phillips right now?
Rising fast — up 3067 spots — currently #10516 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #10516 | 7 | ▲ up 3067 · +40% births |
| 2021 | #13583 | 5 | ▼ down 1447 |
| 2015 | #12136 | 5 | ▲ up 175 |
| 2010 | #12311 | 5 | ▼ down 759 |
| 2005 | #11552 | 5 | ▼ down 3291 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #8261 | 7 | ▼ down 1208 |
| 1995 | #7053 | 7 | ▼ down 3715 · -61% births |
| 1990 | #3338 | 18 | ▼ down 488 · +6% births |
| 1985 | #2850 | 17 | ▲ up 2163 · +143% births |
| 1980 | #5013 | 7 | ▼ down 624 |
| 1975 | #4389 | 7 | ▼ down 1609 · -42% births |
| 1970 | #2780 | 12 | ▲ up 61 · +33% births |
| 1965 | #2841 | 9 | ▼ down 594 · -36% births |
| 1960 | #2247 | 14 | ▼ down 433 · -26% births |
| 1955 | #1814 | 19 | — |
The story of Phillips
Phillips entered American naming records in 1904 and has been in use for over 120 years. With 1,319 total births recorded, Phillips remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2129 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10516 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phillips in 1909:
Phillips by decade
Phillips peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 13 | |
| 1910s | 112 | |
| 1920s | 173 | |
| 1930s ★ | 176 | |
| 1940s | 176 | |
| 1950s | 158 | |
| 1960s | 126 | |
| 1970s | 89 | |
| 1980s | 124 | |
| 1990s | 105 | |
| 2000s | 43 | |
| 2010s | 24 | |
💎With 1,319 total births, Phillips is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phillips?
What names sound and feel like Phillips?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phillips also consider these
Common questions about the name Phillips
What does the name Phillips mean?
Phillips means "Son of Philip, which is derived from the Greek name 'Philippos', meaning lover of horses." — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Phillips?
Phillips is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Phillips?
Phillips originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Phillips?
Phillips is a two-syllable name pronounced F IH1 L AH0 P S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Phillips a common or rare name?
Phillips is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.