What does Wilber mean and where does it come from?
Wilber is traditionally a male name of English origin, derived from the Old German name 'Wilber', meaning 'resolute' or 'brave'. The female use of Wilber is less common and may be considered a modern adaptation or variation. Though not widely found as a female name historically, it reflects contempo
Cultural significance
Wilber has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of resolute, brave.
Peak popularity
Reached #4039 in 2025 — currently #4039 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Wilber?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Wilber?
Wilber works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilber Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilber John
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilber Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilber Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Wilber Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Wilber Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Wilber right now?
Rising fast — up 276 spots — currently #4039 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #4039 | 27 | ▲ up 276 · +8% births |
| 2024 | #4315 | 25 | ▼ down 2359 · -90% births |
| 2023 | #1956 | 244 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1961 | 224 | ▲ up 5 · +15% births |
| 2021 | #1966 | 194 | — |
The story of Wilber
Wilber entered American naming records in 1929 and has been in use for over 95 years. With 6,750 total births recorded, Wilber remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1966 in 2021 to #1956 in 2023. Wilber is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wilber in 2025:
Wilber by decade
Wilber peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 189 | |
| 1890s | 155 | |
| 1900s | 220 | |
| 1910s | 1,048 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,437 | |
| 1930s | 958 | |
| 1940s | 580 | |
| 1950s | 339 | |
| 1960s | 174 | |
| 1970s | 144 | |
| 1980s | 158 | |
| 1990s | 366 | |
| 2000s | 558 | |
| 2010s | 385 | |
| 2020s | 91 | |
💎With 6,750 total births, Wilber is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Wilber?
What names sound and feel like Wilber?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilber also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilber
What does the name Wilber mean?
Wilber means "Resolute, Brave" — a name rooted in American 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 Wilber?
Wilber is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Wilber?
Wilber originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Wilber a common or rare name?
Wilber is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Wilber more of a girl or boy name?
Wilber is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.