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Wilbert Boy

Popularity: #905 · Trend: ↘ Falling

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)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188029
188129
188220
188338
188426
188524
188617
188719
188829
188925
189028
189128
189243
189332
189430
189535
189640
189740
189846
189937
190063
190152
190250
190359
190460
190571
190685
190783
1908101
190998
1910146
1911167
1912291
1913405
1914545
1915651
1916716
1917755
1918790
1919809
1920867
1921899
1922902
1923847
1924813
1925804
1926778
1927778
1928741
1929684
1930720
1931675
1932654
1933627
1934596
1935542
1936586
1937554
1938645
1939565
1940566
1941577
1942640
1943608
1944523
1945537
1946577
1947601
1948558
1949622
1950578
1951540
1952591
1953534
1954509
1955510
1956509
1957496
1958422
1959458
1960464
1961370
1962345
1963346
1964326
1965269
1966291
1967235
1968256
1969272
1970259
1971198
1972183
1973177
1974198
1975160
1976150
1977181
1978147
1979158
1980181
1981145
1982163
1983136
1984110
1985114
1986116
1987112
1988104
198999
1990120
1991104
199296
199386
199477
199581
199648
199777
199880
199955
200067
200158
200272
200359
200452
200567
200662
200760
200857
200956
201042
201142
201243
201338
201435
201530
201637
201734
201827
201917
202027
202116
202226
202318
202419