Declining since 2010, #4,857 for boys today.
Popularity of Willian since 1880
Babies named Willian per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1929, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Willian's real moment was 1890.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 81 |
| 1890s | 46 |
| 1900s | 29 |
| 1910s | 194 |
| 1920s | 597 |
| 1930s | 560 |
| 1940s | 555 |
| 1950s | 415 |
| 1960s | 416 |
| 1970s | 240 |
| 1980s | 225 |
| 1990s | 138 |
| 2000s | 232 |
| 2010s | 243 |
| 2020s | 103 |
Meaning & origin
Willian is a variant spelling of the classic name William. While the standard William has remained a top choice for centuries, Willian has always been a rare alternative. Its peak usage came in 1890, though even then it was uncommon. Since 2010, its usage has been falling, making it an unusual but recognizable choice. The name carries the same strong meaning of 'resolute protection' from its Germanic roots, linking it to a long tradition of dignified bearers. For parents seeking a familiar name with a slightly different look, Willian offers a subtle twist on a timeless favorite.
Willian is a variant spelling of William, derived from the Old Norman French 'Williame', ultimately from the Germanic 'Wilhelm' (will + helmet). The name was introduced to England by the Normans and became one of the most enduringly popular names in the English-speaking world. This particular spelling is a less common but recognized variant.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Will, Bill, Billy, Liam
Sibling names for Willian
Names that share Willian's style, for a brother or sister.
