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

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