Declining since 2021.
Popularity of Wilkin since 1922
Babies named Wilkin per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 11 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 11 |
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 18 |
| 2000s | 23 |
| 2010s | 26 |
| 2020s | 27 |
Meaning & origin
Wilkin is a historic English diminutive of William, dating back to medieval times. Its first recorded use in the United States was in 1922, but it has always been exceptionally rare. The name experienced a slight peak in 2020, though still only a few births per year. Since then, its usage has been declining, reflecting a broader trend away from traditional diminutives. While Wilkin has never ranked in the top 1000, its connection to the perennially popular William gives it a familiar feel. The name is almost exclusively given to boys, and its rarity ensures that a child named Wilkin will likely be the only one in their cohort.
Wilkin is a medieval English diminutive of William, derived from the Old Norman name Willahelm, composed of elements 'will' (desire) and 'helm' (helmet, protection). It was a common hypocoristic form in the Middle Ages, often used as a surname before being revived as a given name.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Will, Kin, Willy
Variants: Wilken
Sibling names for Wilkin
Names that share Wilkin's style, for a brother or sister.
