Origin and Meaning of Pippa

Meaning & Origin

Lover of horses

Origin: English - Pippa is a diminutive of the name Philippa, which comes from the Greek name Philippos, meaning 'friend of horses' (philos meaning 'loving' and hippos meaning 'horse').

Interesting Facts

  • Pippa gained popularity as a standalone name in the 20th century, though it has been used as a nickname for Philippa and other similar names for much longer.
  • The name Pippa has cultural significance in English-speaking countries and has been popularized by figures such as Pippa Middleton, sister to Catherine, Princess of Wales.
  • Pippa appears in literature and popular culture, including the renowned children's book 'Pippa Passes' by Robert Browning.
  • In the last decade, Pippa has seen a rise in popularity as a fresh and playful alternative to more traditional names, corresponding with a trend towards shorter names.
  • Variations of the name include Philippa, Pippin, and other diminutives such as Pip, which convey a similar friendliness and charm.