Log in · Sign up

Wilford Boy

Popularity: #919 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationWIL-ford / /ˈwɪl.fɔrd/

English; Old German

Meaning

English: Willful guardian; Old German: Resolute

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Wilford has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "willa," meaning "will" or "desire," and "ford," which refers to a river crossing or ford. This etymological combination suggests a meaning akin to "desire by the river crossing." The name evolved through various linguistic stages, transitioning from Old English to Middle English before entering the modern English lexicon. The earliest recorded instances of the name can be traced back to the medieval period, where it was used as a given name and a surname, particularly in England.

Historically, the name Wilford appears in various documents and records from the 12th century onward. It is associated with several notable figures, including Wilford Woodruff, a prominent leader in the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the 19th century. The name has also been linked to various locations in England, such as Wilford, a village in Nottinghamshire, which further solidifies its historical significance. The presence of the name in ecclesiastical records and local histories underscores its enduring nature in English-speaking regions.

Culturally, the name Wilford carries connotations of strength and determination, reflective of its etymological roots. It has been used in literature and historical texts, contributing to its resonance within certain communities. The name's association with geographical features, such as rivers, may symbolize a connection to nature and the importance of waterways in early English settlements. Additionally, diminutive forms like Wilf have emerged, showcasing the name's adaptability and continued relevance throughout the centuries.

Trend Summary

The name Wilford has experienced a decline in popularity in the United States over recent decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Wilf
  • Wilforde

International Variants

Famous people named Wilford

Wilford Brimley was an actor and musician best known for Cocoon, The Natural, and The Firm.

Wilford Woodruff was a religious leader best known for being the fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Fictional characters named Wilford

Wilford Wiffle is a fictional character from the animated television series The Amazing World of Gumball. He is a minor character known for his quirky personality and humorous interactions with the main cast.

Wilford is a fictional character from the video game series Danganronpa. He is a skilled manipulator and plays a significant role in the game's overarching narrative.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Wilford was first seen in the United States in 1880. Wilford has ranked as high as #637 nationally, which occurred in 1926, and has been most popular in Texas, Missouri, Utah, Louisiana, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Wilford has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Wilford (1993)

StateBirthsShare
CA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188018
188118
188225
188320
188416
188520
188612
188713
188817
188911
189016
189120
189215
189328
189428
189518
189618
189722
189815
189911
190024
190115
190217
190318
190418
190525
190629
190731
190838
190931
191039
191169
191292
1913123
1914169
1915240
1916225
1917232
1918271
1919238
1920249
1921271
1922268
1923223
1924257
1925252
1926276
1927232
1928249
1929215
1930210
1931208
1932169
1933139
1934193
1935153
1936158
1937164
1938150
1939145
1940143
1941122
1942151
1943144
1944144
1945128
1946125
1947129
1948128
1949132
1950118
1951132
1952112
1953115
1954109
1955116
1956100
195794
195895
195980
196070
196168
196267
196364
196463
196558
196650
196744
196863
196951
197052
197137
197248
197326
197444
197543
197637
197737
197832
197934
198025
198120
198237
198324
198426
198511
198622
198718
198820
198925
199015
199118
199214
199315
19947
199514
19969
199710
19988
199917
200014
200113
20025
20035
20048
20059
20065
20075
20088
201015
201110
20127
20139
201411
201510
20168
201710
20186
20207
20227
202310
20245