What does Wilbur mean and where does it come from?
'Wilbur' is traditionally a male name of Old German origin meaning 'resolute' or 'willful.' However, its usage as a female name is unconventional and may be regarded as a form of gender-neutral naming. Historically, the name has been associated with notable figures such as Wilbur Wright, one of the
Cultural significance
Wilbur has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of resolute.
Peak popularity
Reached #2076 in 1919 — currently #763 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Wilbur?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Wilbur?
Wilbur works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilbur Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Wilbur Rose
Floral · soft ending
Wilbur Mae
Sweet · timeless
Wilbur Claire
French influence · crisp
Wilbur Jane
Literary · strong
Wilbur Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Wilbur right now?
Holding steady — currently #763 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #763 | 1,437 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #768 | 1,417 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #773 | 1,387 | ▲ up 3809 · +27640% births |
| 1945 | #4582 | 5 | ▼ down 701 · -17% births |
| 1940 | #3881 | 6 | ▼ down 712 · -25% births |
| 1935 | #3169 | 8 | ▼ down 98 · -11% births |
| 1930 | #3071 | 9 | ▼ down 281 · -25% births |
| 1925 | #2790 | 12 | ▼ down 318 · -14% births |
| 1920 | #2472 | 14 | — |
The story of Wilbur
Wilbur entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. A total of 57,019 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2472 in 1920 to #763 in 2023. Wilbur is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wilbur in 1919:
Wilbur by decade
Wilbur peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 914 | |
| 1890s | 1,142 | |
| 1900s | 1,839 | |
| 1910s | 12,475 | |
| 1920s ★ | 15,835 | |
| 1930s | 9,106 | |
| 1940s | 5,985 | |
| 1950s | 4,149 | |
| 1960s | 2,571 | |
| 1970s | 1,275 | |
| 1980s | 780 | |
| 1990s | 432 | |
| 2000s | 250 | |
| 2010s | 246 | |
| 2020s | 20 | |
What are good nicknames for Wilbur?
What names sound and feel like Wilbur?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilbur also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilbur
What does the name Wilbur mean?
Wilbur means "Resolute" — 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 Wilbur?
Wilbur is currently ranked #763 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 Wilbur?
Wilbur 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 Wilbur?
Wilbur is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L B ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Wilbur more of a girl or boy name?
Wilbur is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.