Phebe Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Phebe
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name PHEBE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Phebe
Gender
Female
Origin
Greek
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Phebe is a Greek feminine name meaning 'bright one' or 'shining.' It conveys qualities of purity, illumination, and radiant energy, reflecting both its mythological origins and positive characteristics.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Phebe
Phebe (Biblical)
Early Christian leader
Mentioned in Romans 16:1-2 as a deaconess of the church at Cenchreae, commended by Paul for her service
Phebe Cary
Poet
American poet and author, sister of Alice Cary, known for her sentimental poetry and hymns
Phebe Ann Hanaford
Minister and author
First woman ordained as a Universalist minister in New England and prominent suffragist
Phebe Fjellström
Academic researcher
Swedish researcher in human-computer interaction and professor at Umeå University
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Throughout Western history, the name has maintained its classical appeal while adapting to different cultural contexts, from Renaissance revivals of classical names to Victorian era usage where it represented both classical education and Christian virtue. The spelling 'Phebe' specifically gained prominence in English-speaking countries during the 18th and 19th centuries, often preferred for its phonetic clarity and distinction from the mythological spelling. This dual heritage—connecting ancient Greek civilization with early Christianity—gives the name unique cultural resonance across both secular and religious contexts.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Phebe are often perceived as possessing a luminous quality—both intellectually and spiritually. They tend to be natural illuminators in their social circles, bringing clarity, wisdom, and positive energy to situations. The name's meaning of 'bright one' and 'shining' often manifests in personalities that are insightful, perceptive, and capable of seeing through complexity to essential truths. These individuals frequently exhibit a balanced combination of intellectual curiosity and emotional intelligence, making them excellent communicators and mediators.
The historical association with both mythological wisdom and early Christian service suggests personalities that are both principled and practical, often drawn to roles where they can guide, teach, or serve others. There's typically a strong sense of integrity and purity in their approach to relationships and challenges, coupled with a quiet confidence that comes from inner conviction rather than external validation. Their shining quality isn't necessarily flashy or attention-seeking, but rather a steady, reliable brightness that others naturally gravitate toward in times of uncertainty or need, reflecting the name's enduring symbolic power across centuries.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Phebe remains a relatively uncommon but cherished name choice, often selected by parents seeking a classical name with both mythological and biblical significance. While the spelling 'Phoebe' has dominated modern usage, particularly since the 1990s popularity of the Friends character, 'Phebe' maintains a distinctive traditional appeal. The name has experienced a gentle resurgence as part of the vintage name revival trend, appealing to parents who appreciate its historical depth and elegant simplicity. Current usage trends show it ranking outside the top 1000 names in most English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice that avoids being overly common while still being recognizable and easy to pronounce. The name's appeal crosses demographic boundaries, chosen by families valuing either its classical heritage, spiritual significance, or simply its melodic quality and positive meaning.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Phebe represents illumination in multiple dimensions—intellectual enlightenment, spiritual clarity, and emotional brightness. The name carries connotations of purity not in the sense of innocence alone, but as clarity and authenticity—being true to one's essential nature. Like moonlight cutting through darkness, the name suggests the ability to reveal what is hidden and provide guidance in uncertain times. It symbolizes the integration of ancient wisdom with practical service, reflecting both the mythological Titan's association with prophecy and the biblical figure's role as a helper and leader. The shining quality extends metaphorically to represent hope, guidance, and the human capacity for insight and understanding, making Phebe a name rich with positive symbolic resonance across cultural and spiritual traditions.