PHILLIPPS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Phillipps

The surname Phillipps, of Welsh origin, is a patronymic name derived from the given name Philip, meaning "lover of horses." The double 'p' in the name is a characteristic feature of Welsh surnames. The name has various spellings including Phillips, Philips, and Phillipps.

Origin and Meaning
The name Phillipps is thought to have been brought to Britain by Flemish weavers who settled in Wales in the 12th century. Over time, the name spread throughout England and other parts of the British Isles.

Distribution and Popularity
The surname Phillipps is most commonly found in Wales and the West Midlands region of England. It is also present in other English-speaking countries due to migration and colonial ties.

Notable Bearers

Sir Thomas Phillipps (1792–1872): Renowned antiquarian and collector of manuscripts.
Elizabeth Phillips Hughes (1883–1961): Prominent suffragette and women's rights activist.
Baron Milford Haven, formerly Louis Mountbatten, known as Louis Phillipps Anson Mountbatten (1854–1921).

Variants
Variants of the surname include Phillips, Philips, and Phillipps.

Coat of Arms
The coat of arms for the Phillipps family features a shield with three silver wolves' heads on a blue background, signifying bravery and loyalty.

There are approximately 190 people named Phillipps in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Phillipps.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
David
Ian
James
John
Mark
Michael
Nigel
Peter
Richard
William

Female

Christine
Elizabeth
Jane
Jennifer
Karen
Kathleen
Rachel
Sally
Sarah
Valerie

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.