F
Feminine
Portuguese
Meaning & History
Filipa is the feminine form of Philip, a name of Greek origin meaning "friend of horses." In Portuguese, it is one of several female equivalents of the masculine name Filipe or Felipe, and it is also used in Serbian, Croatian, Czech, and Polish. The name carries a noble and historical resonance, particularly in Portugal, where it has been borne by royalty and prominent figures throughout the centuries.
Etymology and History
The root name Philip derives from the Greek Φίλιππος (Philippos), composed of the elements philos ("friend, lover") and hippos ("horse"). This etymology reflects an ancient Greek tradition of forming names from qualities or relationships. The name was famously held by five kings of Macedon, most notably Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, and it also appears in the New Testament: Philip the Apostle and Philip the Deacon are both regarded as saints. Filipa, as a feminine derivative, follows the pattern common in many European languages where the suffix -a or -pa indicates the female form. In Portugal, the name gained prestige through its association with the nobility, including the English princess Filipa de Lencastre (Philippa of Lancaster), who became queen consort of Portugal in the 15th century and strengthened ties between England and Portugal.Cultural Significance
In Portugal, Filipa is considered a noble name, historically linked to the royal house of Avis. Its usage in Brazil is more rare, but it persists as a classic choice. The name also appears in literature and the arts, with modern bearers contributing to its contemporary relevance. Notable figures include Filipa de Lencastre, a key figure in Portuguese history, and the Portuguese singer Filipa Azevedo, who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011. Outside Portugal, variant forms like Philippa, Filippa, and Pippa enjoy popularity in other languages, such as English and Swedish.- Meaning: "Friend of horses"
- Origin: Greek, via Portuguese
- Type: Feminine form of Philip
- Usage regions: Portugal, Brazil, Croatia, Poland
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Filipa