All about the name

Billie

Female

« Billie is a unisex English given name derived from William, meaning "resolute protector. »

#864 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Billie is a gender-neutral given name of English origin. It is derived from the medieval male given name William, which is ultimately derived from the Germanic elements wil "will" and helm "helmet, protection." Therefore, Billie means "resolute protector." The name Billie has been used for centuries as a pet form or diminutive of William. In the Middle Ages, it was often used as a nickname for young boys who were considered brave and strong-willed. Over time, however, Billie has become more associated with female individuals, possibly due to its usage by famous women such as Billie Holiday, the renowned jazz singer. In recent years, Billie has gained popularity as a unisex given name. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, it was one of the fastest-growing names for both boys and girls between 2015 and 2019. While it is still more commonly used for females, its use for males has also been increasing. Overall, Billie is a name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its gender-neutral nature makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking a unique yet timeless name for their child. Whether you're drawn to its strong meaning or simply appreciate its distinctive sound, Billie is certainly a name worth considering.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Billie since 1880

Total births
102,846
Total since 1880
Peak year
1930
3,241 births
in 2023
308
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+173%
vs previous 5 years