William
Meaning & Origin
William comes from the Germanic Willahelm, combining “will, desire” and “helmet, protection” — meaning “resolute protector.” It’s one of the most historically significant English names, carried by kings from William the Conqueror onward.
Popularity
William ranked #9 on the US Social Security Administration’s official 2025 baby names list, continuing an unbroken streak as one of the most enduring boy names in naming history.
Nicknames & Variations
- Will
- Liam (originally an Irish short form)
- Billy
Similar Names
- Henry
- James
- George
- Edward
Personality & Trivia
William is often seen as dignified, dependable, and quietly noble, a name that has anchored English royal history for nearly a thousand years. Its many nicknames give parents flexibility between a formal, regal name and a casual everyday one.
Famous People Named William
- Prince William, Prince of Wales
- William Shakespeare, playwright and poet
- Bill Gates (William), Microsoft co-founder
- William the Conqueror, first Norman King of England
Quick Facts
- Gender: Boy
- Origin: Germanic
- Meaning: Resolute protector
- Pronunciation: WIL-yum