theophilus: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareFormal, historical, religious
Quick answer
What does “theophilus” mean?
A masculine given name of Greek origin, meaning 'friend of God' or 'loved by God.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A masculine given name of Greek origin, meaning 'friend of God' or 'loved by God.'
Primarily used as a personal name. Historically, it appears in the New Testament as the dedicatee of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. It can sometimes be used figuratively to refer to a pious person or a beloved friend of God.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage, as it is a proper name. Pronunciation may have slight regional variations.
Connotations
In both regions, the name carries strong archaic, religious, and historical connotations. It is not a contemporary given name.
Frequency
Extremely rare as a first name in contemporary use in both the UK and US. May be encountered more frequently in historical texts, theological discussions, or classical references.
Grammar
How to Use “theophilus” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] as subject/object[Addressed to] + TheophilusVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in theological, historical, classical, or onomastic studies.
Everyday
Extremely unlikely to be encountered.
Technical
Not used in technical fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “theophilus”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “theophilus”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “theophilus”
- Misspelling as 'Theophilius' or 'Theofilus'.
- Pronouncing the 'ph' as /f/ instead of the correct /f/ (which it is).
- Treating it as a common noun with a plural form.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very rare and considered archaic or historical.
The dedicatee of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. His exact identity is unknown; he may have been a specific individual or a symbolic figure representing 'every lover of God.'
No, it is traditionally and exclusively a masculine given name. The feminine equivalent is 'Theophila'.
In British English: /θiːˈɒfɪləs/ (thee-OF-i-lus). In American English: /θiˈɑːfɪləs/ (thee-AH-fih-lus).
A masculine given name of Greek origin, meaning 'friend of God' or 'loved by God.
Theophilus is usually formal, historical, religious in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'THEO' (God) + 'PHILUS' (loving/friend) = 'Friend of God.'
Conceptual Metaphor
A NAME IS A LEGACY; PIETY IS FRIENDSHIP WITH THE DIVINE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the origin and meaning of the name 'Theophilus'?