William is a classic male given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German elements "wil" meaning "will", "desire", or "resolution", and "helm" meaning "helmet", "protection", or "strength". The name was brought to England by the Normans in the 11th century and has since been a popular choice among English-speaking populations.
The name William has been borne by many notable historical figures, including William the Conqueror, also known as William I, who invaded England in 1066 and became its king. Other famous bearers of the name include William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet; William Wordsworth, a celebrated Romantic poet; and William Wallace, the Scottish hero who fought against English rule during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Throughout history, the name William has been associated with strength, courage, and leadership, reflecting its etymological roots. It is also a name that has been passed down through generations in many royal families, including those of England, Scotland, and Sweden.
Today, William remains a popular choice for parents looking for a traditional yet timeless name for their sons. Its classic sound and strong historical associations continue to make it an appealing option for families around the world. Some popular variations of the name include Willy, Will, Billie, and Liam, among others.
The name Willian has seen a significant decline in popularity over the past century. With the highest number of births recorded at 84 in 1929 and the lowest at 9 in 1881, there's a notable decrease in usage. The peak decades seem to be the 1920s and early 1930s, with a gradual decline afterward. From the 1970s onwards, the name Willian has been quite rare, with fewer than 25 births per year most years since then.