Philippa
FIL-IP-UH
Philippa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from the ancient Greek name Philippos, composed of 'philos', meaning lover or friend, and 'hippos', meaning horse. The horse was a symbol of noble status in ancient Greece and Rome, and a love of horses indicated a person of rank and cultivation. Philippa has a solidly British, aristocratic quality, associated with queens, noblewomen, and country estates. It is a name of considerable substance and history, and its range of nicknames, particularly the charming Pippa, gives it excellent everyday flexibility.
At a glance
A classic British aristocratic name meaning lover of horses, with a long royal pedigree and the wonderful nickname Pippa. Quietly rising as vintage names return to fashion.
Etymology & History
Philippa entered the English naming tradition via the Latin feminine form of Philippus, itself a Latinisation of the Greek Philippos. It was introduced to England by the Normans and received royal endorsement through Philippa of Hainault in the 14th century. The name maintained a steady presence among the English aristocracy and gentry through the following centuries, never becoming overly common but remaining recognisable and respected. The 20th century saw it fall somewhat out of fashion before a gradual revival began in the 21st century.
Cultural Significance
Philippa carries the full weight of English aristocratic naming tradition. Philippa of Hainault is one of the most positively regarded medieval English queens, remembered for intervening to save the Burghers of Calais from execution, and her name has carried these associations of grace and mercy ever since. The enormous popular attention given to Pippa Middleton during the 2011 royal wedding and subsequent years brought the name back into widespread awareness. Today Philippa is firmly part of the coterie of British classic names, sitting alongside Cordelia, Octavia, and Arabella as a choice that feels both traditional and gently fashionable.
Famous people named Philippa
Philippa of Hainault
14th-century Queen consort of England as wife of King Edward III, celebrated for her mercy, piety, and patronage of the arts
Philippa Gregory
British historical novelist best known for The Other Boleyn Girl and her many novels about the Tudor and Plantagenet dynasties
Pippa Middleton
British socialite and author, sister of Queen Catherine, who brought widespread attention to the nickname form of Philippa
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Philippa
Arabella
“Yielding to prayer, graceful beauty”
Arabella is a graceful and romantic name traditionally meaning 'yielding to prayer' or 'answered prayer', carrying an air of aristocratic elegance and timeless femininity. It evokes beauty, refinement, and a gentle inner strength. The name has a musical, flowing quality that makes it feel both classic and utterly charming.
Cordelia
“Heart, daughter of the sea”
Cordelia is thought to derive from the Celtic word 'creddyled' meaning jewel of the sea, or from the Latin 'cor' meaning heart. It carries a poetic dual meaning, evoking both oceanic depth and heartfelt devotion.
Felicity
“Happiness, blissful good fortune”
Felicity means 'happiness,' 'great joy,' or 'blissful good fortune,' and is one of the classic English virtue names that directly expresses a positive quality parents wish for their child. The name evokes an enduring sense of contentment and a lively, optimistic spirit. It has a crisp, bright sound that feels both classic and contemporary.
Henrietta
“Feminine ruler of the home”
Henrietta is a grand, stately name with deep aristocratic and royal European roots, carrying an air of Victorian elegance and quiet authority. It is a substantial name that wears well at every stage of life, offering the delightful nicknames Henny, Etta, or Retta for everyday use. The name is seeing renewed interest as parents rediscover elaborate, full-bodied Victorian names with distinguished histories.
Octavia
“Eighth”
Octavia is a Latin name meaning eighth, from the Latin word octavus. It was a common name in ancient Rome, traditionally given to the eighth child or eighth daughter in a family. The most celebrated bearer in antiquity was Octavia Minor, the beloved sister of Emperor Augustus and wife of Mark Antony, whose dignity and grace made her one of the most admired women of the Roman world. Today the name is chosen for its classical elegance rather than birth order, and it has enjoyed a quiet, sustained revival among parents seeking something distinctive and historically rich.
Phoebe
“Bright, radiant”
Phoebe comes from the Greek 'phoibos', meaning 'bright' or 'radiant'. In mythology, Phoebe was a Titan associated with the moon and prophetic wisdom, making this a name that shines with celestial beauty and intellect.
Where you'll find Philippa
Philippa shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.