Wilbert Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationWIL-burt / /ˈwɪlbərt/German; English
Meaning
German: resolute; English: bright
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Wilbert has its roots in Old High German, derived from the elements "wil" meaning "will" or "desire" and "berht" meaning "bright" or "famous." This etymological combination suggests a meaning akin to "bright will" or "famous desire." The name evolved through various forms, entering the English language via the Old French variant "Guibert" during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century. Over time, it was anglicized to Wilbert, becoming more common in English-speaking regions by the 19th century.
Historically, the name Wilbert has been associated with notable figures, particularly in the context of the Christian tradition. One significant milestone is the presence of Saint Wilbert, a 7th-century English saint who was known for his piety and contributions to the spread of Christianity in the region. His legacy, along with others bearing similar names, contributed to the name's endurance in various forms throughout the Middle Ages. The name also appears in various historical texts and records, further solidifying its presence in English history.
Culturally, Wilbert carries connotations of strength and brightness, reflective of its linguistic roots. The name has been used in literature and has been borne by various individuals who have made significant contributions to society, thus reinforcing its positive associations. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Wil or Bert have emerged, providing affectionate alternatives that have been embraced in familial and social contexts. Overall, Wilbert encapsulates a blend of historical significance and cultural resonance, making it a name with a rich heritage.
Trend Summary
Wilbert has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Wilber
- Wilburt
International Variants
- Guilbert (French)
- Wilbertus (Latin)
Famous people named Wilbert
Wilbert Awdry is an author best known for The Railway Series and Thomas the Tank Engine.
Wilbert Harrison is a musician best known for Kansas City and his work in rhythm and blues.
Fictional characters named Wilbert
Wilbert is a fictional character from the children's book Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. He is a pig who befriends a spider named Charlotte and seeks to avoid being slaughtered by becoming famous.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Wilbert was first seen in the United States in 1880. Wilbert has ranked as high as #368 nationally, which occurred in 1922, and has been most popular in Louisiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Wilbert has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Wilbert (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 29 |
1881 | 29 |
1882 | 20 |
1883 | 38 |
1884 | 26 |
1885 | 24 |
1886 | 17 |
1887 | 19 |
1888 | 29 |
1889 | 25 |
1890 | 28 |
1891 | 28 |
1892 | 43 |
1893 | 32 |
1894 | 30 |
1895 | 35 |
1896 | 40 |
1897 | 40 |
1898 | 46 |
1899 | 37 |
1900 | 63 |
1901 | 52 |
1902 | 50 |
1903 | 59 |
1904 | 60 |
1905 | 71 |
1906 | 85 |
1907 | 83 |
1908 | 101 |
1909 | 98 |
1910 | 146 |
1911 | 167 |
1912 | 291 |
1913 | 405 |
1914 | 545 |
1915 | 651 |
1916 | 716 |
1917 | 755 |
1918 | 790 |
1919 | 809 |
1920 | 867 |
1921 | 899 |
1922 | 902 |
1923 | 847 |
1924 | 813 |
1925 | 804 |
1926 | 778 |
1927 | 778 |
1928 | 741 |
1929 | 684 |
1930 | 720 |
1931 | 675 |
1932 | 654 |
1933 | 627 |
1934 | 596 |
1935 | 542 |
1936 | 586 |
1937 | 554 |
1938 | 645 |
1939 | 565 |
1940 | 566 |
1941 | 577 |
1942 | 640 |
1943 | 608 |
1944 | 523 |
1945 | 537 |
1946 | 577 |
1947 | 601 |
1948 | 558 |
1949 | 622 |
1950 | 578 |
1951 | 540 |
1952 | 591 |
1953 | 534 |
1954 | 509 |
1955 | 510 |
1956 | 509 |
1957 | 496 |
1958 | 422 |
1959 | 458 |
1960 | 464 |
1961 | 370 |
1962 | 345 |
1963 | 346 |
1964 | 326 |
1965 | 269 |
1966 | 291 |
1967 | 235 |
1968 | 256 |
1969 | 272 |
1970 | 259 |
1971 | 198 |
1972 | 183 |
1973 | 177 |
1974 | 198 |
1975 | 160 |
1976 | 150 |
1977 | 181 |
1978 | 147 |
1979 | 158 |
1980 | 181 |
1981 | 145 |
1982 | 163 |
1983 | 136 |
1984 | 110 |
1985 | 114 |
1986 | 116 |
1987 | 112 |
1988 | 104 |
1989 | 99 |
1990 | 120 |
1991 | 104 |
1992 | 96 |
1993 | 86 |
1994 | 77 |
1995 | 81 |
1996 | 48 |
1997 | 77 |
1998 | 80 |
1999 | 55 |
2000 | 67 |
2001 | 58 |
2002 | 72 |
2003 | 59 |
2004 | 52 |
2005 | 67 |
2006 | 62 |
2007 | 60 |
2008 | 57 |
2009 | 56 |
2010 | 42 |
2011 | 42 |
2012 | 43 |
2013 | 38 |
2014 | 35 |
2015 | 30 |
2016 | 37 |
2017 | 34 |
2018 | 27 |
2019 | 17 |
2020 | 27 |
2021 | 16 |
2022 | 26 |
2023 | 18 |
2024 | 19 |