William
Meaning of William
The name William is of Old German origin and means "resolute protection". A timeless and classic choice, it has been consistently popular throughout the years. Pronounced as WIL-yum in English, this name carries with it a sense of dignity and strength. Notable figures bearing this name include several kings of England and the renowned playwright William Shakespeare. Common variations include Will and Bill. According to data, William has been among the top 20 most chosen names for newborns in the United States for more than a century, often ranking in the top 10. Its enduring popularity attests to its appeal across generations. Whether you're seeking a name steeped in history or simply want one that's stood the test of time, William might be just the choice for your baby boy.
Pronunciation
British English
- Pronunced as WIL-yum (/wɪl.jəm//)
American English
- Pronunced as WIL-yum (/wɪl.jʌm//)
U.S. Popularity Chart
States Popularity Chart
Notable People Named William
| William Ewart Gladstone was a prominent British statesman and Liberal politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for 12 years over four non-consecutive terms, and also held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer for over 12 years. |
| William Shatner is a Canadian actor best known for his iconic portrayal of James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise over a career spanning seven decades. |
| William F. Buckley Jr. - William Frank Buckley Jr. was a prominent American conservative writer, founder of National Review, and host of the long-running public affairs television show Firing Line. |
| William Shakespeare, known as the greatest writer in the English language, was an English playwright, poet, and actor whose works continue to be widely studied and performed. |
| William Orville Douglas Sr. was a prominent American jurist and the longest-serving associate justice of the Supreme Court, known for his progressive and civil libertarian views. |
| William the Silent, also known as William of Orange, was a key leader in the Dutch revolt against the Spanish Habsburgs and is considered the founder of the Orange-Nassau branch, playing a significant role in the formal independence of the United Provinces in 1648. |
| William I of Württemberg - William I was the King of Württemberg from 1816 until his passing. |
| William David Friedkin was an influential American film director, producer, and screenwriter associated with the "New Hollywood" movement, best known for his acclaimed films The French Connection and The Exorcist. |
| William Carlos Williams was an American poet, writer, and physician known for his association with modernism and imagism. |
| William Holden was an award-winning American actor known for his roles in classic films like Sunset Boulevard and The Bridge on the River Kwai. |
| William Justus Goebel was a Democratic politician who briefly served as the 34th governor of Kentucky and is the only state governor in the United States to be assassinated while in office. |
| William Castle was a versatile American filmmaker known for his work as a director, producer, screenwriter, and actor. |
| William Dawbney Nordhaus is an American economist and Nobel Prize winner known for his work in economic modeling and integrating climate change into long-run macroeconomic analysis. |
| William Patrick Roache is a renowned English actor, famous for his role as Ken Barlow in the long-running ITV soap opera Coronation Street, making him the longest-serving cast member in the show's history. |
| William Grawn Milliken was the longest-serving governor in Michigan history, known for his leadership during a period of economic and environmental challenges. |
