Wylie Unisex
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
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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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 14 | |
FL | 13 | |
GA | 10 | |
OK | 10 | |
CA | 9 | |
TN | 8 | |
OH | 8 | |
NC | 7 | |
SC | 6 | |
IL | 5 | |
KY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 12 |
1881 | 10 |
1882 | 8 |
1883 | 10 |
1884 | 10 |
1885 | 13 |
1886 | 13 |
1887 | 15 |
1888 | 13 |
1889 | 11 |
1890 | 9 |
1891 | 5 |
1892 | 7 |
1893 | 9 |
1894 | 14 |
1895 | 18 |
1896 | 13 |
1897 | 12 |
1898 | 14 |
1900 | 17 |
1902 | 10 |
1903 | 7 |
1904 | 8 |
1905 | 16 |
1906 | 6 |
1907 | 11 |
1908 | 19 |
1909 | 22 |
1910 | 17 |
1911 | 19 |
1912 | 25 |
1913 | 34 |
1914 | 40 |
1915 | 53 |
1916 | 50 |
1917 | 51 |
1918 | 56 |
1919 | 61 |
1920 | 63 |
1921 | 49 |
1922 | 53 |
1923 | 56 |
1924 | 71 |
1925 | 55 |
1926 | 47 |
1927 | 52 |
1928 | 40 |
1929 | 63 |
1930 | 56 |
1931 | 51 |
1932 | 59 |
1933 | 38 |
1934 | 51 |
1935 | 61 |
1936 | 57 |
1937 | 51 |
1938 | 54 |
1939 | 50 |
1940 | 50 |
1941 | 57 |
1942 | 48 |
1943 | 51 |
1944 | 49 |
1945 | 51 |
1946 | 39 |
1947 | 55 |
1948 | 44 |
1949 | 37 |
1950 | 46 |
1951 | 39 |
1952 | 39 |
1953 | 44 |
1954 | 32 |
1955 | 47 |
1956 | 42 |
1957 | 36 |
1958 | 27 |
1959 | 33 |
1960 | 30 |
1961 | 37 |
1962 | 31 |
1963 | 38 |
1964 | 22 |
1965 | 32 |
1966 | 44 |
1967 | 29 |
1968 | 27 |
1969 | 27 |
1970 | 32 |
1971 | 42 |
1972 | 39 |
1973 | 26 |
1974 | 23 |
1975 | 35 |
1976 | 17 |
1977 | 31 |
1978 | 26 |
1979 | 21 |
1980 | 34 |
1981 | 23 |
1982 | 15 |
1983 | 23 |
1984 | 29 |
1985 | 23 |
1986 | 25 |
1987 | 30 |
1988 | 30 |
1989 | 20 |
1990 | 28 |
1991 | 20 |
1992 | 29 |
1993 | 30 |
1994 | 21 |
1995 | 28 |
1996 | 40 |
1997 | 29 |
1998 | 42 |
1999 | 39 |
2000 | 45 |
2001 | 41 |
2002 | 46 |
2003 | 48 |
2004 | 46 |
2005 | 48 |
2006 | 70 |
2007 | 55 |
2008 | 77 |
2009 | 69 |
2010 | 73 |
2011 | 64 |
2012 | 85 |
2013 | 77 |
2014 | 88 |
2015 | 75 |
2016 | 98 |
2017 | 117 |
2018 | 103 |
2019 | 93 |
2020 | 82 |
2021 | 148 |
2022 | 126 |
2023 | 112 |
2024 | 162 |