[Facts] Re: Etymology of a greek male first name
by Pavlos (guest)
10/1/2001, 3:26 AM
Phileas is a form of Phileus can conceivably mean two things:
1. Philos ("friend") + -eus ("of a"): "Of a friend, related to a friend"
or
2. Philos ("friend")+ Eus ("good, brave, noble"): "A noble friend"
Etymology #1 is more probable, although #2 appears more aesthetically pleasing.