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William

♂ Boy

Pronounced WIL-yum /ˈwɪl.jəm/High

Meaning: Resolute protector; determined guardian; will helmetHigh

In 30 seconds: From Old High German meaning 'resolute protector,' William is among the most enduring names in English history — borne by conquerors, kings, and Shakespeare himself.
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Origin HighGermanic, Norman French
MeaningResolute protector; determined guardian; will helmet
Peak year1947
Total births (all-time)≈ 4,102,604

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 194718802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

William derives from the Old High German Willahelm, composed of wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). The Normans brought it to England in 1066 with the Conqueror, and it immediately became the most popular name in the country.

William was borne by William Shakespeare (1564–1616), giving it enduring literary fame. Four English kings bore the name. In U.S. records it has never left the top 20 and was #1 for extended periods. Three U.S. presidents named William (or Bill) served the country.

Did you know? William has been the most common name in England for periods stretching over 900 years, introduced by William the Conqueror in 1066 and carried by four more kings of England since.

Variations

WilhelmGuillaumeGuillermoUilliamLiamWim

Nicknames

WillBillBillyWillyLiam

Famous Bearers

  • ★William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
    English playwright and poet, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language.
  • ★Prince William, Prince of Wales (1982–)
    British prince, heir apparent to the throne.
  • ★William Faulkner (1897–1962)
    American novelist, Nobel Prize in Literature winner.

If you like William…

James— equally eternal top-20 English classic
Henry— shares the royal pedigree and never-fading appeal
Charles— fellow royal classic with the same distinguished history
Thomas— another biblical/royal classic that has never fallen far
Oliver— shares the dignified English classic feel

Frequently Asked

What does the name William mean?

William comes from Old High German Willahelm, meaning 'resolute protector' or 'will helmet,' combining will (desire) and helm (protection).

How do you pronounce William?

William is said WIL-yum /ˈwɪl.jəm/ — three syllables (though often two in casual speech), with stress on the first.

Is William a boy or girl name?

William is used almost exclusively as a boy's name; the feminine equivalent is Wilhelmina or Willa.

How popular is William?

William has never left the U.S. top 20 boys' names since SSA records began in 1880, and is #1 or #2 in several periods, making it one of the most popular boys' names in all of American history.