William is a boy's name of Germanic origin meaning “Resolute protector.” With 2 syllables, it is short and easy to say. Common nicknames include Will, Bill. As of 2023, William ranks #10 among boys' names in the United States and has been gradually declining. Its highest US ranking was #4 in 2019.
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WIL-yam
Phonetic spelling
Currently #10 among US baby names.
* Based on US Social Security Administration birth-registration data
William means “Resolute protector.” It is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
William is pronounced WIL-yam.
William is most commonly used as a boy's name.
William currently ranks #10 among boys' names in the United States.
Popular nicknames for William include Will, Bill.
Middle names that pair well with William include William James, William Thomas, William Alexander.
Other Germanic names you might love
“Army ruler (variant of Walter)”
“Army ruler; Germanic origin meaning "commander of soldiers"”
“Wise protector”
“Noble, bright; Germanic origin meaning "distinguished and radiant"”
“Free man; Germanic origin meaning "independent person"”
“Famous warrior; Germanic origin meaning "renowned fighter"”
“Ruler of the home”
“Ruler of the home”
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