Rising since 1987, #1,609 for boys today.
Popularity of Phineas since 1880
Babies named Phineas per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 10 |
| 1900s | 0 |
| 1910s | 38 |
| 1920s | 33 |
| 1930s | 29 |
| 1940s | 15 |
| 1950s | 23 |
| 1960s | 26 |
| 1970s | 26 |
| 1980s | 47 |
| 1990s | 76 |
| 2000s | 607 |
| 2010s | 1,190 |
| 2020s | 678 |
Meaning & origin
Phineas has seen a notable resurgence in recent decades. After first appearing in U.S. records in 1880, the name fell out of common use but began rising again in 1987. It reached its peak rank in 2018 at 1609th place. In 2025, approximately 1 in 16,267 newborn boys were named Phineas. The name is most popular in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, suggesting a concentration in the Northeast and Midwest. Its biblical roots and literary associations continue to appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet traditional name.
The name Phineas appears in the Old Testament as a priestly figure, son of Eleazar. Its etymology is debated: it may derive from the Egyptian Panhsj (meaning 'the Nubian') or from a Hebrew phrase meaning 'mouth of brass'. It was used by Puritans in the 17th century and has remained in occasional use, with notable literary appearances in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Where Phineas is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Finn, Phin
Sibling names for Phineas
Names that share Phineas's style, for a brother or sister.
