What does Wilard mean and where does it come from?
Wilard is derived from the Old English name 'Wilard' or 'Willhard', meaning 'resolute or brave'. It has roots in both England and America, having somewhat fallen out of favor. The name was notably borne by Wilard Van Orman Quine, an influential American philosopher in the 20th century. Variations of
Cultural significance
Wilard has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of resolute or brave.
Peak popularity
Reached #3739 in 1925 — currently #1610 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Wilard?
Wilard works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilard Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Wilard Rose
Floral · soft ending
Wilard Mae
Sweet · timeless
Wilard Claire
French influence · crisp
Wilard Jane
Literary · strong
Wilard Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Wilard right now?
Holding steady — currently #1610 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1610 | 590 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1615 | 570 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2021 | #1620 | 540 | ▲ up 2119 · +7614% births |
| 1925 | #3739 | 7 | — |
The story of Wilard
Wilard entered American naming records in 1925 and has been in use for over 99 years. With 13 total births recorded, Wilard remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3739 in 1925 to #1610 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Wilard in 1925:
💎Wilard has only 13 total recorded births since 1925 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Wilard?
What names sound and feel like Wilard?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilard also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilard
What does the name Wilard mean?
Wilard means "resolute or brave" — a name rooted in English 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 Wilard?
Wilard 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 Wilard?
Wilard originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Wilard?
Wilard is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L AA1 R D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Wilard a common or rare name?
Wilard is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.