Guilherme is a Portuguese name of Germanic origin that means "strong in peace." It is derived from the Germanic elements "wil" meaning will or desire and "helm" meaning helmet or protection.
The name Guilherme has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It was borne by several notable figures, including Guilherme da Costa (15th century), a Portuguese navigator who explored Africa's west coast, and Guilherme Beck (19th century), a Brazilian painter known for his landscape paintings.
In Portugal, Guilherme is often used as an independent name, while in Brazil it is commonly used as a short form of names like Guilhermino and Guilherme Pedro. Despite its Portuguese roots, the name has gained popularity worldwide, appearing on baby name lists across Europe, South America, and even North America.
Today, Guilherme remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong yet peaceful-sounding name for their baby boy. Its meaning "strong in peace" continues to resonate with families who appreciate its blend of strength and tranquility.
The name Guilherme experienced fluctuating popularity throughout the century, with significant spikes occurring between 1999 and 2006. The peak occurred in 2006 with a total of 39 births that year alone. However, since then there has been a steady decline, with only 7 births recorded in 2022. Over the entire period from 1921 to 2022, Guilherme was given as a name to 509 babies.