Willson

“son of Will”

American origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#8251US 2022

10Births / yr

↓Falling

334All-time births

📅 Since 191400

What does Willson mean and where does it come from?

Willson is a surname derived from the given name William, which itself originates from the Old German name 'Willahelm,' meaning 'resolute protector.' The name has been used since the Middle Ages and gained popularity through various royal figures named William. The Willson variant has been recorded

Cultural significance

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

Peak popularity

Reached #2648 in 1914 — currently #8251 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Willson?

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

Willson Grace

How popular is Willson right now?

Falling — down 698 spots — currently #8251 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1990–2022#8251 · Top 6.1%

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2022	#8251	10	▼ down 698 · -9% births
2021	#7553	11	▼ down 1579 · -21% births
2020	#5974	14	▲ up 2124 · +56% births
2015	#8098	9	▲ up 779 · +13% births
2010	#8877	8	▲ up 1378 · +33% births
2005	#10255	6	▼ down 1024
2000	#9231	6	▼ down 209 · +20% births
1995	#9022	5	▼ down 3567 · -44% births
1990	#5455	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Willson

Best Year1990Rank #5455

Peak Count14

Average Rank#8080

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1990 - 20229 years

The story of Willson

Willson entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 334 total births recorded, Willson remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5455 in 1990, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8251 in 2022.

Names that peaked alongside Willson in 1914:

John William James Robert Joseph

Willson by decade

Willson peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	29
1920s	21
1930s	10
1940s	5
1970s	5
1980s	21
1990s	61
2000s	68
2010s ★	100
2020s	14

💎Willson has only 334 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Willson?

Common

WilWiIllson

What names sound and feel like Willson?

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

Wilson

American · English

Willmon

English · Desired protector

Willison

Scotland · Son of William

American · From the farm

Philson

American · Son of Philip

Hickson

American · Hick's son

Common questions about the name Willson

What does the name Willson mean?

Willson means "son of Will" — 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 Willson?

Willson is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Willson?

Willson 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.

Is Willson a common or rare name?

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

What are good nicknames for Willson?

Willson 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.