William
William is a boy name of Germanic origin meaning “Resolute protector”, pronounced WIL-yum. It ranked #9 in the United States in 2025, given to 10,545 babies, and peaked at #2 in 1880. Common nicknames: Will, Bill, Billy.
How popular is William in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does William mean, and where does it come from?
William derives from the Old Germanic name Willahelm, composed of "wil" (will, desire) and "helm" (helmet, protection). The name was brought to England by William the Conqueror after the Norman invasion of 1066, and it quickly became the most popular name among English royalty and commoners alike. Four English kings bore the name, and it has remained in the top tier of boy names for nearly a thousand years. William is one of the few names that has never fallen out of fashion in the English-speaking world, consistently ranking in the top 20 in the United States and United Kingdom.
How is William used around the world?
William is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 40+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for William?
Famous People Named William
- William Shakespeare — English playwright and poet
- Prince William — Duke of Cambridge and heir to the British throne
- William Faulkner — Nobel Prize-winning American novelist
Similar Names to William
If you like William, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for William
Looking for names that pair well with William? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name William mean?
William is a boy name of Germanic origin meaning "Resolute protector." William derives from the Old Germanic name Willahelm, composed of "wil" (will, desire) and "helm" (helmet, protection). The name was brought to England by William the Conqueror after the Norman invasion of 1066, and it quickly became the most popular name among English royalty and commoners alike.
How do you pronounce William?
William is pronounced WIL-yum. Common variations include Wilhelm, Guillaume, Guillermo.
Is William a boy name?
Yes, William is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Will, Bill, Billy, Liam.