Phebe is a charming and unique female given name of Greek origin. The name is derived from the Greek word "phos," which means light or radiance. Therefore, Phebe is often interpreted to mean "radiant" or "bright." This name has been used throughout history, notably in the New Testament of the Bible, where Phebe is mentioned as a deaconess and friend of Saint Paul.
The use of the name Phebe can be traced back to ancient Greece. In Greek mythology, Phebe was one of the nine Muses, who were the goddesses of inspiration in music, song, and poetry. Phebe was associated with the moon and was said to inspire mystical poetry.
In more recent times, Phebe has been used as a given name for girls in various cultures around the world. It is often spelled in different ways, such as Phoebe or Feebee, but it always retains its connection to light and radiance.
Today, Phebe continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters. Its unique sound and positive associations make it an appealing option for many families.
Based on the annual statistics provided for the name Phebe in the United States from 1880 to 2023, we can observe several trends and patterns:
From 1880 to around 1945, the number of births with the name Phebe varied significantly year by year. During this period, there were years with more than 30 births (peaking at 35 in 1917) and years with fewer than 10 births (dropping as low as 6 in 1964). This indicates that the name Phebe was not particularly popular or consistent during this time.
However, starting around 1945, there appears to be a resurgence of the name Phebe. From 1946 to 2023, with the exception of a few years in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the number of births with the name Phebe has remained relatively consistent, typically ranging between 15 to 30 births per year. This suggests that the name Phebe has experienced renewed popularity since the mid-20th century.
Moreover, there are a few notable peaks in recent years: 45 births in 2011, 41 births in both 2009 and 2005, and 37 births in both 2018 and 2014. These peaks indicate that the name Phebe has enjoyed periods of particular popularity within the last two decades.
In conclusion, while the name Phebe experienced fluctuations in its popularity throughout much of the 19th and early to mid-20th centuries, it has seen a consistent resurgence since around 1945. The total number of births with the name Phebe from 1880 to 2023 is 2913. This data demonstrates that the name Phebe has maintained its relevance and appeal among parents in the United States over time.