Filip, of Slavic origin, is a popular name across various cultures, notably among the Polish and Czech communities. It shares roots with the Latin name Philippos, which means "lover of horses." The name gained prominence through historical figures like Saint Filip the Apostle, one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles.
The name Filip has been adopted by numerous cultures, each attributing its unique interpretation. In Polish culture, Filip is traditionally associated with the patron saint, Saint Filip Benizi, a prominent member of the Servite Order in the 13th century. Meanwhile, in Czech culture, Filip is often linked to national heroes like Filip of the Iron Heart, a legendary knight from Czech folklore.
The name Filip has been embraced by several notable figures across history and literature. For instance, Filip of Macedonia was an ancient king who played a significant role in the expansion of the Macedonian Empire. In more recent times, Filip Forsberg is a professional ice hockey player known for his exceptional skills on the rink.
In many languages, including Polish, Czech, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, and Hungarian, the name Filip has been widely used and adapted to fit each culture's unique linguistic norms. This widespread usage attests to its enduring appeal across time and cultures.
The name Filip experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1980s onwards, with a notable peak in 2004 and 2007, reaching over 90 births each year during this period. However, since around 2013, there has been a steady decline in its popularity, with fewer than 90 births per year.