Philemon

The first name Philemon (Φιλήμων) has its roots in Ancient Greek and derives from the term philema (φίλημα), meaning 'kiss'. It is often interpreted as 'the Friendly' or 'the Loving'. This ancient name has already played a role in Greek mythology.

What does the name Philemon mean?

Philemon (Φιλήμων) is a masculine first name whose origin lies in Ancient Greek. Derived from the word philema (φίλημα) for 'kiss', it is often translated as 'the Friendly' or 'the Loving'. The name has historical roots, including in the 'Metamorphoses' of the poet Ovid, where Philemon, a hospitable old man, along with his wife Baucis, offers refuge to the god Zeus and his son Hermes. The name also appears in the Bible, as one of the recipients of Paul's letters in the New Testament is named Philemon. Today, the first name remains in use and is found in German, English, and French-speaking regions, but is particularly popular in North America and Africa. Notable bearers of this name include American actor Philemon Chambers. Variants of the name include Filemon, Filmon, and Philmon, while the feminine form is Philemona.

Where does the name Philemon come from?

Philemon is a masculine first name of Greek origin meaning 'the Friendly' or 'the Loving'. The term is derived from the Ancient Greek word philema (φίλημα) for 'kiss'. It is widespread in various languages such as American, Biblical, German, English, and French.

How do you pronounce Philemon?

The name Philemon is pronounced with three syllables and has a melodic sound. The pronunciation 'Phi-le-mon' [fiˈleːmɔn] combines a soft F sound with clear vowels. The stressed middle syllable gives the name a rhythmic flow, while the ending '-mon' softly and somewhat darkly fades away. Overall, Philemon conveys a cultivated and harmonious impression, appearing traditional and fluid.

When is the name day of Philemon?

The name days for Philemon are celebrated on March 8 (Apollonius and Philemon), September 27 (Philemon and Fortunianus), and November 22 (Philemon of Colossae).

Popularity

In Germany, Philemon is among the more common first names. Currently, it ranks 3,183 on the list of the most popular male baby names. Its best ranking was achieved in 2005 at position 827. In the last ten years, it has been chosen as a first name about 120 times, placing it at 2,172 in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 2,100.

Nicknames & pet names

Phil / Phile / Philimo / Philli

Similar first names

Famous people

• Alphaeus Philemon Cole (artist from America)
• Arthur Philemon Coleman (Canadian geologist)
• Ishmael Philemon Ackon (Ghanaian singer)
• Paul Philemon Rastoul (French physicist)
• Philemon (Christian to whom Paul writes a letter)
• Philemon E. Sturges (American architect)
• Philemon Galindo (British actor)
• Philemon Kimeli Limo (long-distance runner from Kenya)
• Philemon Kiprop Boit (long-distance runner from Kenya)
• Philemon Kirwa Tarbei (Kenyan long-distance runner)
• Philemon Limo (Kenyan long-distance runner)
• Philemon Masinga (footballer from South Africa)
• Philemon McCarthy (Ghanaian football player)
• Philemon Tei MacCarthy (Ghanaian football player)