Williams

“Son of William.”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#1370US 2023

830Births / yr

→Stable

5.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 195800

How to pronounce Williams

WILY·umz

/ˈwɪlj.əmz/ · stress on WILY · 2 syllables

“Son of William.”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Williams mean and where does it come from?

Williams is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the given name William which means 'resolute protector.' Though primarily a surname, it has been increasingly used as a first name, especially in the U.S. and the UK. Its historical roots can be traced back to the Norman Conquest, and it has

Cultural significance

Williams has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of william..

Peak popularity

Reached #4914 in 1958 — currently #1370 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Williams?

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

Williams Grace

How popular is Williams right now?

Holding steady — currently #1370 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#1370 · Top 1.0%

1980

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1370	830	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#1375	810	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2021	#1380	780	▲ up 9062 · +15500% births
1980	#10442	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Williams

Best Year2023Rank #1370

Peak Count830

Average Rank#3642

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1980 - 20234 years

The story of Williams

Williams entered American naming records in 1958 and has been in use for over 66 years. With 5,911 total births recorded, Williams remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #10442 in 1980 to #1370 in 2023. Williams is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Williams in 1958:

Mary Susan Linda Karen Patricia

Williams by decade

Williams peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	101
1890s	106
1900s	134
1910s	386
1920s	603
1930s	547
1940s	573
1950s ★	611
1960s	511
1970s	411
1980s	393
1990s	494
2000s	580
2010s	424
2020s	37

💎With 5,911 total births, Williams is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Williams?

Common

WilWiIlliams

What names sound and feel like Williams?

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

William

English · Resolute protector

Williard

American · Brave; strong-willed

Willians

English · A meaningful name

Gilliam

American · servant of the

Guilliams

Sanskrit · A Sanskrit name

Jilliann

American · A beloved name

Hilliard

American · From the hill

Jillian

American · Youthful

Common questions about the name Williams

What does the name Williams mean?

Williams means "Son of William." — 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 Williams?

Williams 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 Williams?

Williams 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 Williams?

Williams is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L Y AH0 M Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Williams a common or rare name?

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