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Philip

Boy name · 2,491 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Philip: 2,491 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 140 births in 1976.

Philip is a classic name of Greek origin, from Philippos, meaning "lover of horses," a compound of philos (loving) and hippos (horse). Its most famous bearer is Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, whose name later became a royal mainstay across Europe. Saint Philip the Apostle is another historical figure, and the name was borne by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, consort to Queen Elizabeth II. Geographically, the name appears in the town of Philippi in ancient Macedonia, named after Philip II, and in many modern places such as Saint Philip in the Caribbean. The feminine form, Philippa, is less common but has a distinguished history, notably Philippa of Hainault, queen consort of Edward III.