Holding steady.
Popularity of Willena since 1884
Babies named Willena per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1923, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Willena's real moment was 1884.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 0 |
| 1900s | 12 |
| 1910s | 160 |
| 1920s | 236 |
| 1930s | 189 |
| 1940s | 145 |
| 1950s | 117 |
| 1960s | 85 |
| 1970s | 68 |
| 1980s | 42 |
| 1990s | 9 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Willena is a rare feminine elaboration of the classic William, first recorded in 1884 during the 1880s decade. It peaked in that same year but has remained uncommon ever since, with a stable trajectory across its limited usage. The name never appeared in the top 1,000 and has no recorded births in recent years according to Social Security data. Its lack of top state associations reflects its scattered, infrequent use. Willena offers a vintage feel similar to Wilhelmina or Willetta, but with a more melodic ending. Parents drawn to old-fashioned, little-used names may find Willena appealing for its connection to the enduring William without the commonality.
Willena is a feminine elaboration of Will, itself a short form of William. William derives from the Old Norman French Willelm, which comes from the Germanic elements wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). The suffix -ena is a common feminine diminutive or ornamental ending. Willena was occasionally used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States, but never achieved widespread popularity.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Will, Willa, Lena, Winnie
Variants: Wilena, Willeena, Willina
Sibling names for Willena
Names that share Willena's style, for a brother or sister.
