Phineas

“oracle” — Associated with loyalty to divine law

Hebrew origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1715US 2023

98Births / yr

↓Falling

2.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 188000

How to pronounce Phineas

FIN·ee·us

/ˈfɪn.iː.əs/ · stress on FIN · 3 syllables

“oracle”

Associated with loyalty to divine law · Hebrew origin

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.

🌿

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

How popular is Phineas right now?

Falling — down 96 spots — currently #1715 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#1715 · Top 1.3%

1930

1940

1950

1955

1980

1985

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Phineas

Best Year2010Rank #1247

Peak Count141

Average Rank#3278

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 202318 years

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:

John William James Charles George

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

Phineas (historical figure)

Phineas bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.

👑

Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Phineas?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phineas also consider these

Greece · הַפִּנְחָס (Ha-Pinchas) -

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Finneas

Ireland · Small but wise

Dalleas

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

How is Phineas written in other languages?

פִּינְחָס

Ancient Hebrew

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.