Philip Harper

Name meaning, origin and global statistics

Philip Harper — horse lover
296K People worldwide
United States Most common in
1970s Peak popularity
Gender
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Philip Harper is a name combining Greek origins, bringing together "horse lover" (Philip) with "harp player" (Harper). The first name Philip is a masculine given name of Greek origin. From the Greek Philippos (Φίλιππος), meaning "horse-lover." Philip II of Macedon was the father of Alexander the Great. The surname Harper: Harper is an English, Scottish, and Irish surname that is also commonly used as a unisex given name in the United States. In some cases, the surname originated from an occupational name, and is derived from the Middle English harper, harpere ("harper"). In other cases, the surname is derived from the Norman le Harpur. The surname can also be derived from the Gaelic Mac Chruiteir ("son of the harper"). Harper is also the Anglicization of the German family name Härpfer, also meaning "harper". Philip is a well-known first name, carried by approximately 296K people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Philip reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: Philip

Meaning: horse lover

Greek

From the Greek Philippos (Φίλιππος), meaning "horse-lover." Philip II of Macedon was the father of Alexander the Great.

Surname: Harper

Meaning: harp player

Celtic

Harper is an English, Scottish, and Irish surname that is also commonly used as a unisex given name in the United States. In some cases, the surname originated from an occupational name, and is derived from the Middle English harper, harpere ("harper"). In other cases, the surname is derived from the Norman le Harpur. The surname can also be derived from the Gaelic Mac Chruiteir ("son of the harper"). Harper is also the Anglicization of the German family name Härpfer, also meaning "harper".

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Geographic Distribution

The first name Philip is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 51%
United Kingdom 22%
Australia 10%
Greece 8%
Canada 10%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name Philip by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s
1910s
1920s
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
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Notable People Named Philip Harper

People listed above share this name. Listed for informational purposes only. Source: Wikipedia.

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Philip Harper:

1
Expression Number

Leadership and independence. This number suggests a self-reliant, ambitious and pioneering personality that forges its own path.

6
Soul Urge Number

Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.

4
Personality Number

Stability and hard work. Represents practicality, reliability and dedication — someone who builds solid foundations.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name Philip?
The first name Philip originates from Greek. From the Greek Philippos (Φίλιππος), meaning "horse-lover." Philip II of Macedon was the father of Alexander the Great.
When was Philip most popular?
The name Philip reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
What is the origin of the surname Harper?
The surname Harper originates from Celtic. Harper is an English, Scottish, and Irish surname that is also commonly used as a unisex given name in the United States. In some cases, the surname originated from an occupational name, and is derived from the Middle English harper, harpere ("harper"). In other cases, the surname is derived from the Norman le Harpur. The surname can also be derived from the Gaelic Mac Chruiteir ("son of the harper"). Harper is also the Anglicization of the German family name Härpfer, also meaning "harper".
What are the origins of the name Philip Harper?
The name Philip Harper combines two different traditions: the first name Philip has Greek roots, while the surname Harper originates from Celtic.
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