Phil

Phil is a boy's and girl's baby name of Greek origin, a short form of Philip, meaning 'lover of horses' — from the Greek philos (loving, friend) and hippos (horse), one of the most storied names of the ancient world.

Philip the Great, father of Alexander the Great, made this name synonymous with Macedonian power and ambition. Prince Philip of Edinburgh wore it with English royalty for seven decades. Phil has the casual, friendly confidence of mid-century American names — Buddy Holly's real name was Charles, but Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers carried it with rock-and-roll ease. With over 20,000 recorded U.S. births, it has significant historical presence.