What does Wlliam mean and where does it come from?
Wlliam is an American name that emerged in the modern era, with usage recorded in US birth records.
Cultural significance
Wlliam represents a contemporary naming tradition popular in English-speaking communities.
Peak popularity
Reached #2621 in 1962 — currently #1000 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Wlliam?
Wlliam works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wlliam Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Wlliam Rose
Floral · soft ending
Wlliam Mae
Sweet · timeless
Wlliam Claire
French influence · crisp
Wlliam Jane
Literary · strong
Wlliam Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Wlliam right now?
Holding steady — currently #1000 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1000 | 10 | stable |
| 2022 | #1000 | 10 | stable |
| 2021 | #1000 | 10 | ▲ up 2471 · -23% births |
| 1985 | #3471 | 13 | ▲ up 540 · +86% births |
| 1970 | #4011 | 7 | ▼ down 283 · +17% births |
| 1965 | #3728 | 6 | ▲ up 555 |
| 1920 | #4283 | 6 | — |
The story of Wlliam
Wlliam entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. With 96 total births recorded, Wlliam remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4283 in 1920 to #1000 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Wlliam in 1962:
Wlliam by decade
Wlliam peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 11 | |
| 1940s | 6 | |
| 1960s ★ | 39 | |
| 1970s | 14 | |
| 1980s | 26 | |
💎Wlliam has only 96 total recorded births since 1920 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Wlliam?
What names sound and feel like Wlliam?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wlliam also consider these
Common questions about the name Wlliam
What does the name Wlliam mean?
Wlliam means "A meaningful name with English roots" — a name rooted in English 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 Wlliam?
Wlliam is currently ranked #1000 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 Wlliam?
Wlliam originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Wlliam sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Wlliam flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Wlliam ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Wlliam a common or rare name?
Wlliam is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.