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Wilhelm

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Wilhelm Pronunciation

Wilhelm is pronounced VIL-helm /ˈvɪl.hɛlm/Medium

Meaning: German form of William — Germanic wil, 'will', plus helm, 'helmet, protection' — 'resolute protector'High

In 30 seconds: The mighty German William: Wilhelm means 'resolute protector' — borne by kaisers and composers. Strong, stately, and historic.

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Origin HighGerman

MeaningGerman form of William — Germanic wil, 'will', plus helm, 'helmet, protection' — 'resolute protector'

U.S. rank (2024)#4300 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births25 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2014

Total births (all-time)≈ 1,801

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Wilhelm is the German form of William — from Germanic wil, 'will', plus helm, 'helmet, protection' — 'resolute protector'. A strong, historic name borne by German emperors and luminaries.

In the U.S. it appears in German families. Rare, resolute-protector at the root, and stately.

Did you know? Wilhelm is the German William — 'will' plus 'helmet, protection' — borne by German emperors (Kaiser Wilhelm) and the Brothers Grimm's Wilhelm; strong and stately.

Overall data confidence 85%

Behind the Name — Wilhelm — etymology

Variations

WilliamWilhelmusVilhelm

Nicknames

WimWilli

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Wilhelm…

William— the English form

Willem— the Dutch form

Wolfgang— another German name

Witten— a fellow German choice

Dietrich— a similarly popular pick

→ See all names like Wilhelm

Browse the whole category: All German names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Wilhelm?

Wilhelm is pronounced VIL-helm (/ˈvɪl.hɛlm/). Press play above to hear Wilhelm said aloud.

How do you say Wilhelm?

Wilhelm is said VIL-helm (/ˈvɪl.hɛlm/). Press play above to hear Wilhelm said aloud.

What does the name Wilhelm mean?

Wilhelm is the German William — 'resolute protector' ('will' + 'helmet').

Is Wilhelm a boy or girl name?

Wilhelm is a boy's name.

How popular is Wilhelm?

Wilhelm is a rare name in the U.S.