Rising since 1991, #2,778 for girls today.
Popularity of Philippa since 1910
Babies named Philippa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 54 |
| 1920s | 69 |
| 1930s | 53 |
| 1940s | 64 |
| 1950s | 101 |
| 1960s | 114 |
| 1970s | 61 |
| 1980s | 105 |
| 1990s | 104 |
| 2000s | 133 |
| 2010s | 562 |
| 2020s | 395 |
Meaning & origin
Philippa, ranking 2,778 in 2025, is a feminine given name with enduring British appeal. Derived from the Greek name Philippos, meaning 'lover of horses,' it was popularized in England by Queen Philippa of Hainault in the 14th century and has since remained a staple in aristocratic circles. Its rise in the U.S. since 1991, with a peak year in 2022, reflects a broader revival of classic names with nickname potential. Notable bearers include Philippa Foot, the philosopher, and Philippa Gregory, the historical novelist. The name is most common in New York and has a 1 in 26,349 incidence, indicating its rarity but steady use among those seeking a distinguished choice.
Philippa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from the Greek name Philippos, meaning 'lover of horses.' In ancient Greece, the name was borne by several notable figures, including Philip II of Macedon. The feminine form became common in England after the marriage of King Edward III to Philippa of Hainault in the 14th century, and it has remained in use in the English-speaking world, particularly in British aristocratic circles.
Where Philippa is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Philippa” around the world
Where Philippa lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
45
babies in 2024
Ireland
6
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Pippa, Phil, Pip, Pippy
Sibling names for Philippa
Names that share Philippa's style, for a brother or sister.
