Billy

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Billy

Gender Boy
Origin German
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation BIL-ee

Billy, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of German origin.

Meaning of Billy

From the name william

Billy is a masculine given name, usually a diminutive form of William. It can also be a nickname for someone with the name William, Wilfred, Wilbur, Willard, or any other name beginning with "Wil-". Billy is often used as a term of endearment.

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Meaning From the name william
Origin German
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #999 in 2020 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1930s)

Background & History of The Name Billy

The name 'Billy' is a popular given name for boys. It is derived from the English name William, which has Germanic origins. The name 'Billy' is commonly used as a nickname for those named William, as it is shorter and more informal. 'Billy' is considered to be a diminutive form of 'William', typically given to small boys or used among close family and friends.

As a standalone name, 'Billy' has gained its own popularity, particularly in English-speaking countries. It became most popular during the mid-20th century and experienced a resurgence in the late 1990s. 'Billy' is often associated with traits such as friendly, approachable, and adventurous, reflecting a laid-back and outgoing personality.

Although the name 'Billy' is commonly used for boys, it can also be used for girls, serving as a unisex name. However, its usage as a female name is less common compared to its usage for boys.

Notable individuals named 'Billy' include many well-known figures across various fields. In the world of music, Billy Joel, a renowned American singer-songwriter, has sold millions of records and achieved multiple chart-topping hits. Billy Corgan, the lead singer of the alternative rock band Smashing Pumpkins, is another prominent musician with this name.

In the field of sports, Billy Beane, a former professional baseball player and current executive in Major League Baseball, made significant contributions to the sport. Billy Jean King, a former professional tennis player, is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

Overall, the name 'Billy' carries a strong and recognizable identity, often associated with various accomplishments and a vibrant personality.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Billy over the years.

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Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Billy.

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