William: Name Meaning and Origin
Pronounced: WIL-yum · 3 syllables
Everything about the name William: what it means, where it comes from, how to say it, and how popular it is right now.
Meaning
«Resolute protector»
Gender
Boy
Origin
Germanic
Popularity
94 out of 100
About the Name William
With its Germanic heritage, William has long been valued for its meaning, "Resolute protector." It is the kind of boy's name that carries a clear story parents can pass on.
In everyday speech William is said WIL-yum (3 syllables). Familiar short forms include Will, Bill, Liam. Across languages you'll also come across related forms and spellings such as Wilhelm, Guillaume.
Today William is a very popular choice, with a popularity score of 94 out of 100 among families browsing FaceCast. In feel it reads as classic, royal. If you are already picturing the child who might one day carry it, FaceCast's AI baby generator lets you and your partner upload a photo and preview your future baby's face — a light, private way to imagine a little William.
Common Nicknames
Variants & Related Spellings
FAQ
What does the name William mean?+
The name William means "Resolute protector".
What is the origin of the name William?+
William is a name of Germanic origin.
Is William a girl or boy name?+
William is traditionally a boy name.
How do you pronounce William?+
William is pronounced WIL-yum (3 syllables).
What are common nicknames for William?+
Popular short forms include Will, Bill, Liam.
Is William a popular name?+
William is a very popular choice, scoring 94 out of 100 in our popularity index.
Similar Names
- Emma
Germanic
Whole, universal
- Amelia
Germanic
Industrious, striving
- Ella
Germanic
Fairy maiden; light
- Henry
Germanic
Ruler of the home
- Hugo
Germanic
Mind, intellect
- Emerson
Germanic
Brave, powerful
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Picture Your Future Baby William
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