What does Willis mean and where does it come from?
Willis is traditionally a male name but has gained some use as a female name in modern times. It originates from the Old German name 'Willa,' which means 'will' or 'determination.' The adaptation of Willis as a female name represents evolving gender norms in naming practices. While more popular as a
Cultural significance
Willis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in USA-speaking communities, where it reflects values of determined protector.
Peak popularity
Reached #1159 in 1901 — currently #992 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
USA-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Willis?
Willis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Willis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Willis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Willis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Willis Claire
French influence · crisp
Willis Jane
Literary · strong
Willis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Willis right now?
Holding steady — currently #992 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #992 | 1,208 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #997 | 1,188 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1002 | 1,158 | ▲ up 5557 · +23060% births |
| 1965 | #6559 | 5 | ▼ down 2478 · -44% births |
| 1955 | #4081 | 9 | ▼ down 833 · -18% births |
| 1950 | #3248 | 11 | ▲ up 1333 · +120% births |
| 1945 | #4581 | 5 | ▼ down 212 |
| 1940 | #4369 | 5 | ▼ down 2754 · -77% births |
| 1935 | #1615 | 22 | ▲ up 415 · +29% births |
| 1930 | #2030 | 17 | ▼ down 225 · -26% births |
| 1925 | #1805 | 23 | ▲ up 219 · +21% births |
| 1920 | #2024 | 19 | ▲ up 36 · +27% births |
| 1915 | #2060 | 15 | ▼ down 105 · +114% births |
| 1910 | #1955 | 7 | — |
The story of Willis
Willis has been a beloved American name for over 137 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1887. A total of 52,872 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1955 in 1910 to #992 in 2023. Willis is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Willis in 1901:
Willis by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,393 | |
| 1890s | 1,338 | |
| 1900s | 1,495 | |
| 1910s | 7,495 | |
| 1920s ★ | 11,945 | |
| 1930s | 8,371 | |
| 1940s | 6,258 | |
| 1950s | 4,665 | |
| 1960s | 3,080 | |
| 1970s | 2,213 | |
| 1980s | 1,928 | |
| 1990s | 1,229 | |
| 2000s | 749 | |
| 2010s | 651 | |
| 2020s | 62 | |
What are good nicknames for Willis?
What names sound and feel like Willis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Willis also consider these
Common questions about the name Willis
What does the name Willis mean?
Willis means "Determined protector" — a name rooted in USA 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 Willis?
Willis is currently ranked #992 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 Willis?
Willis originates from USA tradition. USA 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 Willis?
Willis is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L IH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Willis a common or rare name?
Willis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.