William is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German words "will" meaning "resolute" or "strong-willed", and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protector". Thus, William translates to "resolute protector".
The name William first appeared in England with the Norman conquest in 1066. William the Conqueror, also known as William I, was the first Norman king of England. He was a powerful and influential figure in medieval history, and his name became popular among the English nobility.
Over time, the name William spread throughout Europe and beyond. Today, it is considered a classic name with enduring appeal. It has been borne by many notable figures throughout history, including William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet; William Wordsworth, the celebrated Romantic poet; and William Harvey, the physician who made significant contributions to physiology.
In some cultures, William is associated with specific feast days or patron saints. However, these aspects are not universally recognized and do not define the name's essence. Instead, William stands as a strong, traditional name with a rich historical legacy. It remains popular today due to its timeless appeal and international recognition.
The name William experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with peak periods between 1983 and 1992, as well as a recent resurgence from 2005 to 2012, before declining again. The total number of births given this name is 266 across the specified period.