What does Phineas mean and where does it come from?
The name 'Phineas' (פִּינְחָס) has strong biblical roots, originating from the Hebrew Bible where Phineas was a significant figure noted for his zeal and fervor for God. He is regarded as a high priest and is associated with loyalty to divine law. The name has been used through centuries and has var
Cultural significance
Phineas has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of oracle.
Peak popularity
Reached #1030 in 1880 — currently #1715 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Phineas?
Phineas works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phineas Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phineas Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phineas Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phineas Claire
French influence · crisp
Phineas Jane
Literary · strong
Phineas Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phineas right now?
Falling — down 96 spots — currently #1715 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1715 | 98 | ▼ down 96 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #1619 | 108 | ▼ down 216 · -18% births |
| 2021 | #1403 | 131 | ▲ up 18 · +9% births |
| 2020 | #1421 | 120 | ▲ up 235 · +26% births |
| 2015 | #1656 | 95 | ▼ down 409 · -33% births |
| 2010 | #1247 | 141 | ▲ up 1365 · +236% births |
| 2005 | #2612 | 42 | ▲ up 540 · +56% births |
| 2000 | #3152 | 27 | ▲ up 3859 · +286% births |
| 1995 | #7011 | 7 | ▼ down 2291 · -12% births |
| 1985 | #4720 | 8 | ▲ up 1583 · +60% births |
| 1980 | #6303 | 5 | ▼ down 2375 |
| 1955 | #3928 | 5 | ▼ down 203 |
| 1950 | #3725 | 5 | ▼ down 227 |
| 1940 | #3498 | 5 | ▼ down 451 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3047 | 8 | — |
The story of Phineas
Phineas has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 2,235 total births recorded, Phineas remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1030 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1715 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phineas in 1880:
Phineas by decade
Phineas peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 10 | |
| 1910s | 38 | |
| 1920s | 33 | |
| 1930s | 29 | |
| 1940s | 15 | |
| 1950s | 22 | |
| 1960s | 26 | |
| 1970s | 26 | |
| 1980s | 47 | |
| 1990s | 76 | |
| 2000s | 604 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,184 | |
| 2020s | 120 | |
💎With 2,235 total births, Phineas is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phineas?
Common
PhiPhinPhiniePhinyIneas
Famous people named Phineas
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Phineas (historical figure)
Phineas bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Phineas?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phineas also consider these
How is Phineas written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Phineas
What does the name Phineas mean?
Phineas means "oracle" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Phineas?
Phineas 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 Phineas?
Phineas originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Phineas?
Phineas is a three-syllable name pronounced F IH1 N IY0 AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Phineas?
Phineas pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.