What does Wilburn mean and where does it come from?
Wilburn is traditionally a male name of English origin, but it has been appropriated as a female name in some circles. It is derived from an old surname, with Old English roots meaning 'wild brook.' While more commonly found as a male name, it serves as a unique option for females, showing a trend i
Cultural significance
Wilburn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the wild brook..
Peak popularity
Reached #4317 in 1934 — currently #1857 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Wilburn?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Wilburn?
Wilburn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilburn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Wilburn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Wilburn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Wilburn Claire
French influence · crisp
Wilburn Jane
Literary · strong
Wilburn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Wilburn right now?
Holding steady — currently #1857 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1857 | 343 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #1862 | 323 | ▲ up 5 · +10% births |
| 2021 | #1867 | 293 | — |
The story of Wilburn
Wilburn entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 10,332 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1867 in 2021 to #1857 in 2023. Wilburn is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wilburn in 1934:
Wilburn by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 139 | |
| 1890s | 133 | |
| 1900s | 224 | |
| 1910s | 1,623 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,761 | |
| 1930s | 2,131 | |
| 1940s | 1,432 | |
| 1950s | 816 | |
| 1960s | 546 | |
| 1970s | 300 | |
| 1980s | 140 | |
| 1990s | 69 | |
| 2000s | 18 | |
What are good nicknames for Wilburn?
What names sound and feel like Wilburn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilburn also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilburn
What does the name Wilburn mean?
Wilburn means "From the wild brook." — 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 Wilburn?
Wilburn 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 Wilburn?
Wilburn 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.
How do you pronounce the name Wilburn?
Wilburn is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L B ER0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Wilburn a common or rare name?
Wilburn is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.