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Wylie Unisex

Popularity: #762 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationWYE-lee / /ˈwaɪli/

Scottish; English

Meaning

Scottish: crafty; English: from the willow tree

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Wylie has its roots in the Old English word "wīl," meaning "resolute protector" or "will," and is derived from the surname Wylie, which originated as a locational name from various places in Scotland and England. The name is believed to have evolved from the Old Norse name "Vigleikr," which combines elements meaning "battle" and "play," reflecting a warrior-like connotation. The transition into English occurred through the Norman influence in the 11th century, where it became associated with various geographical locations, particularly in Scotland, where it was used to denote individuals from these areas.

Historically, the name Wylie can be traced back to the medieval period, with its usage documented in Scotland as early as the 12th century. Notable figures include Wylie of the Clan MacGregor, who was mentioned in historical texts concerning Scottish clans and their feuds. The name also appears in various records throughout the centuries, including church documents and land grants, which highlight its significance in Scottish heritage. The name gained further recognition through literary works and historical accounts, contributing to its enduring presence in the English-speaking world.

Culturally, Wylie has been associated with themes of strength and protection, resonating with the values of loyalty and resilience found in many Scottish traditions. The name has also been linked to various folk tales and legends, enhancing its symbolic weight within Scottish culture. A diminutive form, Wylie, is often used affectionately, maintaining the name's connection to its roots while allowing for a more personal touch. Overall, Wylie embodies a rich historical narrative, reflecting the linguistic and cultural evolution from its Old English and Norse origins to its place in modern nomenclature.

Trend Summary

Wylie has seen a gradual increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Wylie
  • Wylly

International Variants

  • Wylie (English)

Famous people named Wylie

Wylie Dufresne is a chef best known for WD-50, molecular gastronomy, and innovative cuisine.

Wylie Gustafson is a musician best known for his work in country music and the song 'Rodeo Song.'.

Wylie Overstreet is a filmmaker best known for his work on the documentary series 'The Great American West.'.

Wylie Wiggins is an actor best known for his role in Dazed and Confused.

Fictional characters named Wylie

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Wylie was first seen in the United States in 1880. Wylie has ranked as high as #1198 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, California, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Wylie has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Wylie (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 14
15%
FL 13
14%
GA 10
11%
OK 10
11%
CA 9
9%
TN 8
8%
OH 8
8%
NC 7
7%
SC 6
6%
IL 5
5%
KY 5
5%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188012
188110
18828
188310
188410
188513
188613
188715
188813
188911
18909
18915
18927
18939
189414
189518
189613
189712
189814
190017
190210
19037
19048
190516
19066
190711
190819
190922
191017
191119
191225
191334
191440
191553
191650
191751
191856
191961
192063
192149
192253
192356
192471
192555
192647
192752
192840
192963
193056
193151
193259
193338
193451
193561
193657
193751
193854
193950
194050
194157
194248
194351
194449
194551
194639
194755
194844
194937
195046
195139
195239
195344
195432
195547
195642
195736
195827
195933
196030
196137
196231
196338
196422
196532
196644
196729
196827
196927
197032
197142
197239
197326
197423
197535
197617
197731
197826
197921
198034
198123
198215
198323
198429
198523
198625
198730
198830
198920
199028
199120
199229
199330
199421
199528
199640
199729
199842
199939
200045
200141
200246
200348
200446
200548
200670
200755
200877
200969
201073
201164
201285
201377
201488
201575
201698
2017117
2018103
201993
202082
2021148
2022126
2023112
2024162