Gwilym

“Meaning 'the shield' or 'the protector'.” — Associated with Welsh poets such as Gwilym ap Iwan

Wales origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1489US 2023

711Births / yr

→Stable

5All-time births

📅 Since 200500

What does Gwilym mean and where does it come from?

Gwilym is a Welsh name derived from the Old Welsh form of William. It is a name steeped in history, used as a given name in Wales since medieval times. Gwilym is often associated with Welsh poets such as Gwilym ap Iwan. Its popularity has seen a revival among parents looking for traditional Welsh na

Cultural significance

Gwilym has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Wales-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'the shield' or 'the protector'..

Peak popularity

Reached #13128 in 2005 — currently #1489 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Gwilym?

Gwilym works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Gwilym Grace

How popular is Gwilym right now?

Holding steady — currently #1489 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2005–2023#1489 · Top 1.1%

2005

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1489	711	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022	#1494	691	▲ up 5 · +5% births
2021	#1499	661	▲ up 11629 · +13120% births
2005	#13128	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Gwilym

Best Year2023Rank #1489

Peak Count711

Average Rank#4403

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range2005 - 20234 years

The story of Gwilym

Gwilym is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2005. With 5 total births recorded, Gwilym remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13128 in 2005 to #1489 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Gwilym in 2005:

Jacob Michael Joshua Matthew Ethan

💎Gwilym has only 5 total recorded births since 2005 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Gwilym?

CROATIAN

Vilko

DUTCH

JellePimWilWillyWim

ENGLISH

BillBillieBillyLiamWilWillWillieWilly

ESPERANTO

Vilĉjo

What names sound and feel like Gwilym?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gwilym also consider these

Welsh · fair, blessed

Dilyn

Wales · to follow

Gwiza

English · A meaningful name

Harlym

American · Refers to a

Calym

Latin · A Latin name

Glynis

Wales · Glyn - 'Glen'

How is Gwilym written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Gwilym

What does the name Gwilym mean?

Gwilym means "Meaning 'the shield' or 'the protector'." — a name rooted in Wales tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Gwilym?

Gwilym is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Gwilym?

Gwilym originates from Wales tradition. Wales names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Gwilym a common or rare name?

Gwilym is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Gwilym?

Gwilym naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.