Willy
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Willy
Willy, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Willy
Resolute protector
Willy is a classic English and German boy's name meaning resolute protector. It is often used as a diminutive of William. The name carries a strong, timeless appeal.
| Meaning | Resolute protector |
| Origins | English, German |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #949 in 1906 |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Willy
Willy is a diminutive form of the name William, which has roots in both English and German cultures. The name William itself means 'resolute protector' and has been popular across centuries, often associated with royalty and historical figures. Willy gained popularity as a friendly, informal variant and has been used widely in literature and popular culture. Notable bearers include Willy Brandt, a former Chancellor of West Germany, and various fictional characters, making it a name with both historical significance and modern charm.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Willy over the years.
Check Initials
See what initials Willy would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Willy.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account