Phineas is an uncommon male given name of Greek origin and meaning "minden" or "mind". It is derived from the Greek word "phines", which means "to think" or "to speak". In some sources, it is also associated with the Greek hero Phinehas, who was a priest in the Book of Numbers.
The name Phineas has been used throughout history. One notable figure bearing this name was Phineas Pemberton, an American politician and jurist who served as a United States Representative from New Jersey during the late 18th century.
Despite its Greek origins, Phineas is not particularly common in Greece today. However, it has seen some usage in other countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
In popular culture, the name Phineas has been used for various characters. One notable example is Phineas Flynn, a character from the animated television series "Phineas and Ferb". This show, which aired from 2007 to 2015, follows the adventures of stepbrothers Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher.
Overall, while not a very common name, Phineas is one with a rich history and an interesting meaning. Its unique sound and Greek origins make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for a less common male given name.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Phineas has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. From 1880 to around the 1960s, the number of births with the name Phineas remained relatively low, fluctuating between 5 and 9 births per year.
However, starting from the late 1970s, there was a noticeable rise in the popularity of the name. Between 1983 and 2022, the number of births with the name Phineas increased steadily, reaching its peak in recent years. For instance, in 2021, there were 130 births with the name Phineas, and in 2022, there were 107 births.
Overall, since 1880 until 2022, there have been a total of 2578 births registered with the name Phineas in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not have been one of the most popular names throughout history, the name Phineas has gained significant traction and popularity over time.