Philo

Philo is a British surname of ancient origins, derived from the Greek name Philos meaning 'loving' or 'friend'. The surname Philo is most commonly found in southern England and is of Greek origin. It is believed that the name was brought to England by Greek immigrants, traders, or scholars during the Greco-Roman period.

Notable Individuals:

  1. Lysander Philo (1802-1878): An influential Victorian philosopher known for his work on metaphysics and ethics.

  2. Sophia Philo (1865-1943): A renowned British suffragette and women's rights activist.

Variants:

Variants of the surname Philo include Philos and Philou. Over the centuries, variations and adaptations of the name have emerged, reflecting changes in language and regional accents in Britain.

Coat of Arms:

The Philo family crest features a lion rampant holding a shield adorned with a Greek key pattern. The lion symbolises strength and bravery, while the Greek key represents continuity and infinity.

Legacy:

The Philo surname carries a legacy of intellectual pursuits, activism, and a celebration of love and friendship. It has contributed significantly to British history and culture, showcasing the diverse heritage of the nation.

There are approximately 433 people named Philo in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Philo.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Anthony
  • Charles
  • Christopher
  • Colin
  • David
  • Ian
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Paul
  • Richard

Female

  • Alison
  • Annette
  • Diana
  • Elizabeth
  • Jean
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Samantha
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

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