Willard Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationWIL-ard / /ˈwɪl.ərd/English; Old German
Meaning
English: resolute protector; Old German: will, desire
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Willard has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "wil," meaning "will" or "desire," and "hard," meaning "brave" or "strong." This combination suggests a meaning akin to "resolute protector" or "strong-willed." The name evolved through various forms, with its earliest occurrences appearing in medieval England. It was recorded in the 12th century as "Willehard," which later transformed into the more recognizable Willard by the 17th century. The transition into modern English reflects both the phonetic shifts and the simplification of names that occurred during this period.
Historically, the name Willard is associated with notable figures, particularly in American history. One prominent example is Willard Van Orman Quine, a 20th-century philosopher whose contributions to logic and philosophy have had a lasting impact. Additionally, the name appears in various historical documents and records, including those from the colonial period in America, where it was borne by several early settlers and landowners. The name's presence in early American history contributes to its significance in the cultural narrative of the United States.
Culturally, Willard has been embraced in various contexts, often symbolizing strength and determination. The name has been used in literature and popular culture, reinforcing its association with resilient characters. Furthermore, diminutive forms such as Will or Willie have emerged, providing a more familiar and affectionate alternative while maintaining the original's essence. Overall, the name Willard carries a rich historical and cultural legacy, reflecting its Old English origins and the enduring qualities it represents.
Trend Summary
Willard has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Will
- Willy
International Variants
- Guillermo (Spanish)
- Wilhelm (German)
Famous people named Willard
Willard Scott is a television personality best known for The Today Show and as the original Ronald McDonald.
Willard Van Orman Quine is a philosopher and logician best known for Word and Object and his work on the indeterminacy of translation.
Fictional characters named Willard
Willard Stiles is a fictional character from the film Willard. He is a troubled young man who befriends and trains a group of rats to exact revenge on those who have wronged him.
Willard is a fictional character from the novel and film adaptation of Willard. He is a socially awkward man who develops a bond with rats, leading to dark consequences in his life.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Willard was first seen in the United States in 1880. Willard has ranked as high as #133 nationally, which occurred in 1915, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Willard has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Willard (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
IA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 88 |
1881 | 94 |
1882 | 83 |
1883 | 92 |
1884 | 89 |
1885 | 95 |
1886 | 80 |
1887 | 95 |
1888 | 123 |
1889 | 100 |
1890 | 89 |
1891 | 101 |
1892 | 121 |
1893 | 118 |
1894 | 122 |
1895 | 113 |
1896 | 152 |
1897 | 143 |
1898 | 137 |
1899 | 144 |
1900 | 172 |
1901 | 136 |
1902 | 164 |
1903 | 162 |
1904 | 180 |
1905 | 180 |
1906 | 178 |
1907 | 201 |
1908 | 229 |
1909 | 219 |
1910 | 265 |
1911 | 338 |
1912 | 718 |
1913 | 926 |
1914 | 1,302 |
1915 | 2,889 |
1916 | 2,413 |
1917 | 2,188 |
1918 | 2,311 |
1919 | 2,014 |
1920 | 2,089 |
1921 | 2,077 |
1922 | 2,017 |
1923 | 1,945 |
1924 | 1,834 |
1925 | 1,795 |
1926 | 1,810 |
1927 | 1,734 |
1928 | 1,628 |
1929 | 1,511 |
1930 | 1,537 |
1931 | 1,376 |
1932 | 1,357 |
1933 | 1,283 |
1934 | 1,174 |
1935 | 1,214 |
1936 | 1,157 |
1937 | 1,163 |
1938 | 1,095 |
1939 | 1,103 |
1940 | 1,140 |
1941 | 1,085 |
1942 | 1,191 |
1943 | 1,231 |
1944 | 1,039 |
1945 | 957 |
1946 | 1,057 |
1947 | 1,025 |
1948 | 950 |
1949 | 927 |
1950 | 841 |
1951 | 778 |
1952 | 799 |
1953 | 767 |
1954 | 676 |
1955 | 723 |
1956 | 654 |
1957 | 636 |
1958 | 586 |
1959 | 573 |
1960 | 542 |
1961 | 506 |
1962 | 460 |
1963 | 497 |
1964 | 438 |
1965 | 413 |
1966 | 389 |
1967 | 394 |
1968 | 339 |
1969 | 311 |
1970 | 350 |
1971 | 306 |
1972 | 284 |
1973 | 220 |
1974 | 198 |
1975 | 229 |
1976 | 177 |
1977 | 172 |
1978 | 155 |
1979 | 171 |
1980 | 164 |
1981 | 136 |
1982 | 130 |
1983 | 128 |
1984 | 103 |
1985 | 105 |
1986 | 111 |
1987 | 117 |
1988 | 99 |
1989 | 113 |
1990 | 91 |
1991 | 81 |
1992 | 89 |
1993 | 76 |
1994 | 72 |
1995 | 83 |
1996 | 67 |
1997 | 66 |
1998 | 64 |
1999 | 59 |
2000 | 60 |
2001 | 61 |
2002 | 64 |
2003 | 59 |
2004 | 63 |
2005 | 60 |
2006 | 55 |
2007 | 48 |
2008 | 57 |
2009 | 40 |
2010 | 49 |
2011 | 36 |
2012 | 47 |
2013 | 31 |
2014 | 35 |
2015 | 44 |
2016 | 47 |
2017 | 55 |
2018 | 50 |
2019 | 46 |
2020 | 44 |
2021 | 28 |
2022 | 41 |
2023 | 43 |
2024 | 41 |