All about the name

Willaim

Male

« William is an English name of Germanic origin derived from "wil" meaning desire or will and "helm" meaning helmet or protection, brought to England by the Normans after the 1066 conquest and popularized by several English monarchs like William the Conqueror. »

#16886 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

William is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old Germanic words "wil" meaning "will" or "desire," and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protection." The name was brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066 and has since become one of the most popular names in English-speaking countries. The name William first became prominent in England through the reign of William the Conqueror, also known as William I, who was the first Norman King of England. After him, several other kings of England bore the name William, including William II (also known as William Rufus), William III (who ruled jointly with his wife Mary II), and William IV. Throughout history, the name William has been associated with many notable figures besides English monarchs. Some famous Williams include William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet; William Wordsworth, a celebrated Romantic poet; and William Blake, an influential poet, painter, and printmaker. In addition to its historical significance, the name William is also popular because of its sound and its meaning. The name has a strong, confident ring to it, while its meaning "desire for protection" suggests that Williams are often seen as reliable, steadfast individuals who protect and support those around them. Overall, William is a classic name with a rich history and a strong meaning that continues to appeal to parents today. Its popularity over the centuries is a testament to its enduring appeal and timelessness.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Willaim since 1880

Total births
1,597
Total since 1880
Peak year
1987
34 births
in 2018
10
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-9%
vs previous 5 years