Phillipa

Phillipa is a feminine given name used in English-speaking countries. It is a spelling variant of Philippa, both deriving from the Greek name Philippos, meaning “lover of horses” (from philein “to love” and hippos “horse”). The form Philippa is the older medieval English version, while Phillipa is a less common variant that has persisted in modern times.

Usage and pronunciation: Phillipa is generally pronounced the same as Philippa, typically fi-LIP-a or fih-LIP-uh, depending on dialect. Diminutives include Pippa and Pip. The name is feminine; its popularity has fluctuated over the centuries, being more common in earlier periods and now relatively rare but still in occasional use.

Notable bearers and culture: The name has historical associations in Europe, including Queen Philippa of Hainault, wife of Edward III. In contemporary culture, Phillipa appears in literature and media; a prominent bearer is the American actress Phillipa Soo. The spelling Phillipa is recognized as a variant of Philippa, and both forms remain in use in different regions and families.