“willow” — Associated with several locations known by that name
United Kingdom origin · Unisex name
♂ 80% boys♀ 20% girls
#10727US 2021
7Births / yr
↓Falling
263All-time births
📅 Since 200000
How to pronounce Willoughby
WIL·ub·ee
/ˈwɪl.əb.iː/ · stress on WIL · 3 syllables
“willow”
Associated with several locations known by that name · United Kingdom origin
What does Willoughby mean and where does it come from?
The name Willoughby comes from Old English origins, specifically ‘wilig’ meaning 'willow' and 'bȳ' meaning 'farm' or 'settlement.' It was originally used as a surname in England and is associated with several locations known by that name. The transition of Willoughby into a feminine given name began
Cultural significance
Willoughby has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Peak popularity
Reached #9542 in 2020 — currently #10727 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Falling — down 1185 spots — currently #10727 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 2000–2021#10727 · Top 7.9%
2000
2010
2020
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#10727
7
▼ down 1185 · -30% births
2020
#9542
10
▲ up 5554 · +67% births
2010
#15096
6
▲ up 113 · +20% births
2000
#15209
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Willoughby
2020Rank #9542
10
#12644
→Stable
2000 - 20214 years
The story of Willoughby
Willoughby is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2000. With 263 total births recorded, Willoughby remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #15209 in 2000 to #10727 in 2021. Willoughby is used for both genders: 20% female and 80% male.
Willoughby 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 Willoughby?
Willoughby 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 Willoughby?
Willoughby 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.
How do you pronounce the name Willoughby?
Willoughby is a three-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L AH0 B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Willoughby?
Willoughby pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar United Kingdom heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Willoughby
For a sister
Willoughby & London♡
Willoughby & Bowen♡
Willoughby & Leighton♡
Willoughby & Skye♡
For a brother
Willoughby & London♡
Willoughby & Bowen♡
Willoughby & Leighton♡
Willoughby & Skye♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2021
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#10727
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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