Holding steady.
Popularity of Wilkins since 1913
Babies named Wilkins per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1991, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Wilkins's real moment was 1913.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 17 |
| 1920s | 31 |
| 1930s | 15 |
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 17 |
| 1980s | 52 |
| 1990s | 57 |
| 2000s | 51 |
| 2010s | 26 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Wilkins is a rare given name that originated as a surname, itself a patronymic of Wilkin. Its recorded use in the United States began in 1913, which also marked its peak year, indicating that it never gained widespread traction. The name has remained stable at a very low frequency, with fewer than five births per year in recent decades. As a surname-turned-first-name, Wilkins follows a pattern common among English names, but it has never crossed into mainstream use. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice for those seeking an uncommon name with clear English roots.
Wilkins is a patronymic surname turned given name, derived from the medieval given name Wilkin, itself a diminutive of William. The name William comes from the Old Norman French Willaume, ultimately from the Germanic elements wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). As a given name, Wilkins saw modest use in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Wil, Kin, Willy
Sibling names for Wilkins
Names that share Wilkins's style, for a brother or sister.
