Holding steady.
Popularity of Wilhemenia since 1921
Babies named Wilhemenia per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1953, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Wilhemenia's real moment was 1937.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 32 |
| 1930s | 45 |
| 1940s | 54 |
| 1950s | 95 |
| 1960s | 33 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Wilhemenia is a rare elaboration of the classic Wilhelmina, reflecting a feminine adaptation of the masculine William. According to U.S. Social Security data, this name first appeared on the records in 1921 and saw its peak usage in 1937, a period when ornate, multi-syllabic feminine names were fashionable. Despite never entering the top 1,000 nationwide, Wilhemenia has maintained a stable but very low level of use through the decades, with no recorded top states showing significant clusters. The name carries a vintage charm, reminiscent of an era when elaborate forms were common, but remains a distinctive choice in modern times. Its trajectory indicates a resilient, if niche, presence over the past century.
Wilhemenia is a feminine elaboration of William, derived from the Old German elements 'wil' (will, desire) and 'helm' (helmet, protection). The name was likely formed by adding the suffix '-ia' or '-ena' to Wilhelmina, itself a Dutch and German feminine form. It has seen sporadic use in English-speaking countries, particularly in the early 20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Wilma, Mina, Willie, Billie
Variants: Wilhelmina, Wilhelmine, Guillermina, Guglielmina
Sibling names for Wilhemenia
Names that share Wilhemenia's style, for a brother or sister.
