Updated March 26, 2024

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Boy name origins & meanings

  • Greek : Mystical bird; Dark red
  • American: place name 

What Does Phoenix Mean and Stand For? 

The name Phoenix is of Greek origin, and is a reference to the mythological bird. It symbolizes immortality, resurrection, and life after death. Phoenix is a great gender-neutral name option for any baby. 

 

Syllables: 2

How Popular Is The Name Phoenix

Family name origins & meanings

  • Northern English and Scottish : fanciful alteration of Fenwick, under the influence of classical mythology.
  • Canadian French : variant of Phénix (see Phenix).

Famous people with this last name

Famous people who gave their babies this name

What Does the Name Phoenix Mean? 

Phoenix is a gender-neutral name of Greek origin, meaning "dark red."

The Phoenix is a mythological bird associated with the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. The mythological Phoenix bursts into flames at the end of its life, and is then reborn from the ashes. It was often associated with immortality and the god of the sun.

Phoenix is also a place name, referencing the capital city of Arizona.

How Popular is the Name Phoenix?

Phoenix is the #248 most popular boys' name and #308 most popular girls' name in the U.S., according to 2021 Social Security Administration data.  It has been a relatively popular boys' name for a while, but only appeared on the girl baby name charts in 2003. 

Phoenix ranks #3 on FamilyEducation.com. 

According to Google search data analysis, in the last five years Phoenix was at its peak popularity in February 2020. 

Popularity of the Name Phoenix in the United States

Phoenix was searched for most often in the following states: 

  • Arizona 
  • New Mexico 
  • Nevada
  • Oregon
  • Montana

Famous People Named Phoenix and Phoenix in Pop Culture

Famous people named Phoenix include British (female) model Phoenix Richmond and American (male) actor Phoenix List. 

Phoenix is a popular name choice for celebrity babies, having been chosen by Spice Girls singer Mel B., actor Adam Beach, rugby league player Mat Rogers, actress Tammin Sursok, and NBA player Chris Bosh. 

River Phoenix and Joaquin Phoenix are American actors. 

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Phoenix meaning and origin