Willford

“will”

United Kingdom origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1918US 2023

282Births / yr

→Stable

146All-time births

📅 Since 191300

What does Willford mean and where does it come from?

Willford is of Old English origin, derived from the words 'wil' meaning 'will' or 'desire' and 'ford' meaning 'river crossing'. The name is mostly found in English-speaking countries, especially in the UK and the US. It has historical roots and was recorded as a surname before becoming used as a fir

Cultural significance

Willford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.

Peak popularity

Reached #2346 in 1942 — currently #1918 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Willford?

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

Willford Grace

How popular is Willford right now?

Holding steady — currently #1918 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#1918 · Top 1.4%

1915

1920

1925

1940

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1918	282	▲ up 5 · +8% births
2022	#1923	262	▲ up 5 · +13% births
2021	#1928	232	▲ up 1379 · +3767% births
1940	#3307	6	▼ down 236 · -33% births
1925	#3071	9	▲ up 1423 · +80% births
1920	#4494	5	▼ down 481
1915	#4013	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Willford

Best Year2023Rank #1918

Peak Count282

Average Rank#2951

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 20237 years

The story of Willford

Willford entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. With 146 total births recorded, Willford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4013 in 1915 to #1918 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Willford in 1942:

James Robert John William Richard

Willford by decade

Willford peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	29
1920s ★	56
1930s	26
1940s	35

💎Willford has only 146 total recorded births since 1913 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Willford?

Common

WilWiIllford

What names sound and feel like Willford?

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

Williford

United Kingdom · A beloved name

Wilford

English · desiring peace

Windford

American · wind crossing

Wintford

England · Winters' Ford

Tilford

United Kingdom · Ford by the

Winford

American · A friend of

Rickford

United Kingdom · English

Whitford

United Kingdom · White ford

Common questions about the name Willford

What does the name Willford mean?

Willford means "Old English" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Willford?

Willford 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 Willford?

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

Is Willford a common or rare name?

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

What are good nicknames for Willford?

Willford 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.