Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Help
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Convict, Criminal, Land & Wills
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Phillippe

      Origin

      French, France

      Meaning

      Lover of horses.

      Variations

      Phillippa, Philippe, Jean-philippe
      The name "Phillippe" is a variant of the more commonly known name "Philip," which has its roots in ancient Greek. The name is derived from the Greek name "Philippos," which translates to "lover of horses," combining the elements "philos," meaning "loving" or "fond of," and "hippos," meaning "horse." The name has been popular across various cultures and languages, often taking on different spellings and forms, including Philippe in French, Felipe in Spanish, and Filip in Slavic languages.

      Historically, the name Philip has been borne by numerous significant figures, particularly in the realms of royalty and religion. One of the earliest notable bearers of the name was Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, who played a crucial role in the unification of Greece and the expansion of Macedonian power in the 4th century BCE. The name has also been associated with various saints, including Saint Philip the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, who is venerated in Christian traditions. This religious connection has contributed to the name's enduring popularity in Christian communities.

      The variant "Phillippe," particularly in its French form, carries a cultural significance in French-speaking countries. It is often associated with nobility and aristocracy, partly due to its historical connections with French royalty, including several kings of France named Philippe. The name has been borne by notable figures such as Philippe IV of France, also known as Philippe le Bel, who ruled during the late 13th and early 14th centuries and is known for his centralization of the French state and conflicts with the papacy.

      In addition to its royal connotations, Phillippe has been embraced by various artists and intellectuals, contributing to its cultural resonance. The name appears frequently in literature, cinema, and the arts, symbolizing sophistication and refinement. For instance, the name may be associated with prominent French cultural figures, such as Philippe Starck, a renowned designer known for his innovative approach to design, or Philippe Petit, the famous high-wire artist who gained fame for his daring walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974.

      In contemporary usage, the name Phillippe continues to be popular in French-speaking regions, and its variants are prevalent in other cultures, each carrying its unique cultural context. The name is sometimes chosen for its classic appeal and the historical gravitas associated with its bearers. It is also worth noting that the name's popularity has fluctuated over time, influenced by cultural trends, media representations, and the prominence of individuals bearing the name.

      While the name has a rich historical background and has been associated with many notable figures, its modern significance can vary widely based on regional and familial preferences. In some cultures, Phillippe may be seen as a traditional name, while in others, it may be viewed as a more modern, stylish choice. As with many names that have deep historical roots, the perception and popularity of the name Phillippe can evolve, reflecting changing societal values and trends in naming conventions.

      Overall, the name Phillippe encapsulates a blend of historical significance, cultural importance, and contemporary relevance, making it a name that resonates across generations and geographies.

      Based on our records...

      Kellogg

      This is the most common surname associated with Phillippe.

      Marie

      This is the most common name of those married to a Phillippe.

      Philippe

      This is the most common name for a child of a Phillippe.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1878 is when there were the most people born with the first name Phillippe.

      Explore the origins of another name.