Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Phineas

      Origin

      Hebrew

      Meaning

      Nubian

      Variations

      Phinehas, Phinneas, Rheneas
      The name Phineas, originating from the Hebrew language, holds its roots in ancient historical and cultural significance. In Hebrew, Phineas is derived from the word Pinchas, which translates to Nubian or dark-skinned. This attribution links the name to the ancient Nubian civilization, a kingdom located in present-day Sudan. Throughout history, Phineas has been a name associated with strength, courage, and zeal, often seen as a hero or a warrior.

      In the biblical context, Phineas was a notable character in the Old Testament, known for his zealous action against Israelites who had engaged in idolatry with Moabite women. He played a crucial role in maintaining the purity of the Israelite community during their journey in the desert and was subsequently revered as an exemplar of steadfastness and loyalty.

      Although less prevalent in modern times, the name Phineas still finds its usage, albeit in relatively smaller numbers. With its ancient origins, it carries a distinctive and authoritative quality that attracts some parents seeking a unique name for their child. In recent years, the name has gained attention due to its association with the popular children's book and animated series, Phineas and Ferb. Overall, the name Phineas remains a testament to its enduring historical heritage while also holding a place in contemporary culture.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Phineas.
      Mary

      Mary

      This is the most common name of those married to a Phineas.
      Phineas

      Phineas

      This is the most common name for a child of a Phineas.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1780 is when there were the most people born with the first name Phineas.

      Explore the origins of another name.